Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are unable to build new double-glazed windows to their homes due to financial constraints or because they live in listed buildings that prohibit any exterior changes.

Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative to sash windows. It can be installed several ways.

This is a double-paned glass that can be placed inside your existing window frame. It provides insulation and noise reduction, as well as blocking cold air from entering your home.

Fixed Inserts

There are many different styles of secondary glazing that are available for Sash windows. Each style offers distinct advantages including increased security and reduced condensation. Which is the most effective option for you?

The fundamental idea behind secondary glazing is fitting an additional pane of glass inside your existing window frame. This creates an extra layer of soundproofing and insulation which can significantly improve the energy efficiency of your home.

However, it's not always possible to add double-glazed windows to your property particularly if you live in a listed building or are subject to strict planning regulations that dictate what can and cannot be done to your exterior.

Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative in these instances. It can be set up fairly easily. It's also a popular choice for people looking to update their old home without having to tear down the original sash windows and replace them with new ones.

There are a number of different systems available for secondary glazing sash windows, each of which is configurable to suit your frame. The proprietary systems typically feature painted aluminium frames which are designed to fit into the depth of a staff bead on an existing sash window, so that shutters and sills can still be retained.

These can be fitted using a variety of methods for installation, like glazing clips or Velcro. These are more appealing than screw-fixed units and are ideal for windows that do not require to be opened frequently. Alternately, you can opt for an adjustable lift-out unit, which can be lifted out and then put back in its place with ease to allow windows to be opened.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal Sliders provide excellent thermal insulation and are the most well-known solution to improve the performance of existing windows with sash. They are also very discreet and are ideal for historic buildings, conservation areas, and listed properties. In most instances, they can be installed without external access because they operate from the inside.

They are easy to operate with a hand and can be opened wide or left partially open to allow for ventilation. They are effective in stopping draughts and also block harmful UV light. In summer, they can be used with a flyscreen to keep out insects and mosquitoes.

Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems give all the advantages of upvc double glazed sash windows glazing for your traditional window sash window locks. It is comprised of PVC double sliding tracks that run across all four sides of the cavity, the simple bristle seal that is placed around each glass sheet, and finger pull angle handles that serve as handles and lessen bowing. It comes in kits with 1m or 2m of track and angle that can be stacked together to create bigger spans.

The acoustic benefits of secondary glazing are extremely important and can enhance noise reduction from outside, particularly railway, road and airport traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass further enhances the acoustic quality. Secondary glazing that is standard can reduce outside noise to 52dB(Rw) and specialized glass such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can deliver even higher levels of acoustic performance.

It can improve the energy efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer for longer and reducing reliance on central heating. It is less expensive than replacing your original sash windows and is installed almost everywhere without the need to take out the window or door frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is a cost-effective choice that is usually simpler to manage than a full window replacement. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's the ideal option for upgrading traditional windows with sash window locks in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits while retaining the charm of older homes.

Vertical Sliders are specially designed for windows with sash openings where standard hinged panels aren't suitable. The system features two secondary sashes that are secured one over the other inside an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances, allowing for ease of movement. The system can be installed on the inside of a window to provide more efficient thermal performance or equipped with a cavity between the glass and the frame for optimum acoustic properties.

You can choose from a variety of stop-strips and handles that match your preferences. They can be put in the closed position to provide additional security or propped open to allow ventilation on the top or bottom glass. They can be fitted with an insulating seal bristle to prevent drafts.

'Choices' Imagine vertical slider secondary glazing comes with the same authentic wood detailing you'd expect from a vintage window treatment. It's available in an array of colours to match your existing sash. It is almost impossible to differentiate from the original sash windows, as details like sash horns as well as traditional butt joints are incorporated into the design. It's available in an extensive range of sizes and accepts glass up to 6.8mm to provide additional insulation against loss of heat. A tilt-in option is also available that allows the individual sashes of the frame to hinge inward on safety stays to help with cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane secondary glazing can be positioned on sash windows of any style including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units are manufactured with secure multi-point locking and are available with keys lock handles. This combination ensures the glass panel is secured securely in place and is pulled tightly against the frame creating a seal designed to minimize heat loss. Hinged windows can be top-hung or side-hung and can be double-glazed. Our double-glazed Windows provide enhanced acoustic performances and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) and 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).

Unlike horizontal sash windows, with movable sashes that slide horizontally within the frame casement windows are able to open outwards and let in breezes from different angles. They can also be opened from both the top and bottom for controlled ventilation. For this reason, they can improve airflow and offer an effective alternative to traditional windows with sash.

They are used in modern homes due to their slim "sightlines" that allow for an unobstructed view. However, they can also be incorporated in listed homes since they don't require transoms and mullions. They can also be used in places that are difficult to reach since they can be opened simply by turning the handle.

The primary disadvantage of this type of window is that they can block large openings, and could limit the use of certain window treatments. They can be difficult to clean since they swing outward. They also may require regular maintenance and care.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be installed in a variety of ways and the price will vary according to the thickness, type and materials you select for your panes and frame. upvc sash windows windows are generally the most affordable, followed by aluminium and then wooden window frames. Specialised glass, as well any other features such as security or sound reduction can also raise prices.

The complexity of the installation will impact the cost. The more complicated the project is, the more time and labour will be required. This is especially applicable to older properties that have more intricate sash window designs.

The best way to start is to evaluate the condition of your existing windows. You can get a reliable estimate of the cost by having them examined by professionals.

In general, secondary glazing has an insignificant impact on the appearance of your home. This is thanks to the fact that modern FINEO double-glazing has sleek and subtle frames, meaning you can attain thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.

A very popular choice for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which allows easy access to your existing sash windows to clean or ventilation. These are also available with a tilt feature which can be activated by unlocking the catch and raising the secondary glazing panel vertically up to a certain degree. This is great for windows that aren't used frequently and can be used to facilitate access for air cooling in bay windows. You can even use them to open the middle sash on an old-fashioned sash bay window to create a more symmetrical look.