Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners aren't able to install double glazing to their house, either due to financial constraints or due to the fact that the building is listed and any modifications to the exterior are forbidden.

Secondary glazing is a great alternative to sash windows and can be installed several ways.

This is a double-paned window that fits into your existing window frame. It is insulated and provides noise reduction, as well as preventing cold air from entering your home.

Fixed Inserts

There are a variety of styles of secondary glazing for sash windows. Each offers a unique set of benefits, from increased security to lower condensation. Which one is the best option for you?

The basic premise of secondary glazing is to install an additional glass within your window frame. This provides an additional layer of insulation and soundproofing, which can significantly improve the energy efficiency of your home.

It's not always feasible to add double-glazed windows, particularly if you live in classified as a historic property or you are bound by strict planning regulations that dictate what can and cannot be done to your exterior.

In these instances, secondary glazing is a great alternative that can be installed easily. It's a popular option for those looking to modernize their home without the need to replace the original sash window a modern one.

There are a variety of different options for secondary glazing sash windows, all of that can be adapted to fit your existing frame. Proprietary systems usually have painted aluminium frames that are designed to fit within the depth of a staff bead an existing sash window, meaning that shutters and sills are still able to be used.

They can be fitted with a variety of installation methods, such as glazing clips or Velcro. These offer a more aesthetic alternative to screw-fixed units and are ideally suited to windows that don't need to be opened frequently. You can also choose a fixed lift out unit that can be lifted out and put back in place with ease to allow your windows to be opened.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most popular solution to improve the performance of existing windows with sash. They are also quiet and ideal for historic properties or conservation areas as well as listed properties. In most cases, they can be installed without access from outside because they operate by the inside.

They are simple to operate by hand and can be opened wide or left partially open for ventilation. They are effective at keeping out draughts, and also block harmful UV light. They can be used in conjunction with a flyscreen to ward off mosquitoes and other insects during the summer months.

Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems provide all the advantages of double glazing for your traditional Sash window. It is comprised of PVC double glazed sash windows wood sliding tracks on all four sides of the cavity with a simple bristle seal around each glass sheet and finger pull angle handles to act as a handle and decrease bowing. It is available in kits comprising either 1m or 2m lengths of track and angle which can be joined to create larger spans.

The acoustic advantages of secondary glazing are significant and can dramatically enhance noise reduction from outside, particularly the airport, rail and road traffic. The addition of laminated or toughened glass further enhances acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and specialist glass, such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can deliver higher levels of acoustic performance.

It can boost the energy efficiency of your home by keeping your house warmer for longer, and reducing dependence on central heating. It is much cheaper than replacing your sash windows, and can be installed without the need to take out the window or door frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is a cost-effective option that is often more manageable than a complete window replacement sash windows cost. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great option to improve the look of traditional sash windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their distinctive character.

Vertical Sliders are specially designed for sash windows where regular hinged panels aren't suitable. They feature two secondary sashes that are secured, one above the other, inside an outer frame and are supported by sturdy spring balances to allow for easy movement. The system is available as a 'face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the existing window) for increased thermal efficiency or a'reveal-fixed version that has a glass-to-glass cavity inside the window reveal, to ensure optimal audio-acoustic performance.

You can pick from a range of stop-strips and handles to suit your preferences. They can be positioned in the closed position for additional security, or propped open for ventilation on the top or bottom glass. They can also be equipped with an insulating bristle sealing device to keep out drafts.

The 'Choices' Imagine vertical slider secondary glass comes with the same authentic wood details you'd expect to find in a window covering from the past. It comes in a range of colors that will match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to distinguish from the original sash windows as details such as sash horns as well as traditional butt joints are included in the design. It is available in various sizes and can accept glass up to 6.8mm for additional insulation against loss of heat. The tilt-in option permits the sashes of each window to be hinged inwards to make it easier for cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane hinged secondary glazing can be fitted to sash windows of any style including casement and traditional box sash. Our hinged units are equipped with a keylock handle, and are made with multi-point locking. This ensures that the glazed panel is secured and is pulled tightly to the frame, forming a sealing to minimize loss of heat. Hinged windows are available either top or side hung and can also be made by double-glazing. Double-glazed windows are a great way to improve audio-acoustic performance. They are available in 43dB, 47dB or 51dB.

In contrast to horizontal sash windows with movable sashes that slide horizontally within the frame casement windows can open outwards and catch breezes from a variety of angles. They can be opened from the top and bottom to allow controlled ventilation. Because of this, they can increase airflow and provide an effective alternative to traditional windows made of sash.

They are commonly used in modern homes due to their small "sightlines" which allow for unobstructed view, but they can also be installed into listed properties because they do not require transoms or mullions. They're also a great option for those who live in areas that are difficult to reach because they can be opened with the turn of the handle.

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

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be installed using a variety ways and the cost will differ according to the type, thickness and materials you select for your frames and panes. uPVC frames are the least expensive followed by aluminium, and then wooden sash windows frames. Specialised glass can also increase the cost, as well as any extra features, such as security or noise reduction.

Another factor that will influence the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complicated the project, the longer and more labour it will take. This is also the case for older homes with more intricate designs for sash windows.

A good place to start is to evaluate the condition of your existing windows. You can get a reliable estimate of the cost by having them inspected by an expert.

In general, secondary glazing will have a minimal impact on the overall look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing features slim and distinct frame lines. This lets you get the most efficient heat without compromising aesthetics.

The horizontal sliding secondary glazing is popular because it allows easy access to the existing sash window for cleaning or ventilation. They also come with a tilt function, which is activated by releasing the catch and lifting the secondary glazing panel vertically to a specified degree. This is perfect for windows that aren't frequently opened. It can also be used to permit air conditioning access in bay windows. You can also use them to open the middle sash in a traditional sash Bay Window to create a symmetrical appearance.