Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are not able to add double glazing to their homes, either due to financial constraints or because the building is listed and any modifications to the exterior are not permitted.

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

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

Fixed Inserts

There are a variety of styles of secondary glazing for Sash windows. Each has its own set of benefits, from increased security to less condensation. Which is the best option for you?

The principle behind secondary glazing is to incorporate an additional glass pane within the frame of your existing window. This creates an extra layer of soundproofing and insulation, which can greatly increase the efficiency of your home's energy use.

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

Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative in these situations. It can be put in fairly easily. It's also a popular option for those who want to modernize their old home without having to tear down the original windows in sash and replace them with contemporary ones.

There are a variety of different options available for secondary glazing sash windows, each of can be customized to fit your existing frame. Proprietary systems usually have painted aluminium frames that are made to fit within the depth of a staff bead an existing sash window, which means that sills and shutters can be kept.

They can be installed using a variety of installation methods that include glazing clips and Velcro. These types of units look more attractive than screw-fixed units and are best suited for windows that don't need to be opened often. You can also choose a fixed lift-out device that can be easily lifted out and then reinstalled to open your windows.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal Sliders provide excellent thermal insulation and are the most popular option for enhancing existing windows with sash. They are also extremely discreet and are ideal for historic structures, conservation areas and listed properties. They can be installed with the need for external access because they are operated from inside.

They can be operated by hand, and they can be left open or partially closed for ventilation. They are extremely effective in stopping draughts and also they also have the benefit of removing harmful UV light. They can be used in combination with a flyscreen to ward off mosquitoes and other insects during summer months.

Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system provides all the advantages of modern double glazing to your traditional Sash windows. It is comprised of PVC double sliding track on all four sides of cavity, a simple brush seal around each glass sheet and a handle for a finger pull angle to act as a hand and reduce bowing. It comes in kits with 1m or 2m of track and angle that can be stacked together to create larger spans.

The acoustic benefits of second glazing are very important and can improve noise reduction from outside, particularly railway, road and airport traffic. The addition of laminated glass or toughened glasses enhances the acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and special glass, like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass, can achieve higher levels of acoustic efficiency.

It can boost the energy efficiency of your home by keeping your house warmer for longer and reducing reliance on central heating. It is cheaper than replacing the original sash windows refurbishment window, and can be installed without removing the existing frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is a cost effective option that is usually less expensive than full window replacement. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's an ideal solution to replace windows with sash in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits, while maintaining the traditional look of older homes.

Vertical Sliders are designed especially for windows with sash openings where standard hinged panels aren't appropriate. The system is comprised of two secondary sashes that are secured one over one within an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances, allowing for easy movement. The system can be purchased as a 'face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the window) for increased thermal efficiency or a'reveal-fixed version, which has an air cavity for glass, within the original window reveal, to ensure optimal audio-acoustic performance.

They can be fitted with a variety of handles and stop strips to accommodate the preferences of the homeowner, propping open either the top or bottom pane to let in air or fixed in an open position for additional security. They can be equipped with an insulation bristle to stop draughts.

The 'Choices' Imagine vertical slider secondary glass features all the authentic wood detailing you'd expect in a period window. It comes in a variety of colours that match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to differentiate from the original sash window with details like sash horns and traditional butt joints being incorporated into the design. It comes in a variety of sizes and can take glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to loss of heat. The tilt-in option permits the individual sashes of the window to be hinged upwards on safety stays to facilitate cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane secondary glass can be positioned on sash windows of any design, including traditional box sash and casement. The hinged units we offer are made with a secure multi-point locking system and are available with keys lock handles. This will ensure that the glazed panel is locked securely in place and pulls close to the frame, forming a seal to reduce heat loss. Hinged windows can be side-hung or top-hung and can be double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced acoustic performances and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) or 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).

Unlike horizontal sash windows, which have movable sashes, slide horizontally within the frame casement windows can be opened outwards and let in breezes from different angles. They can also be opened from both the top and bottom to offer controlled ventilation. They are therefore able to improve airflow and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash windows.

They are commonly used in modern homes due to their slim "sightlines" that allow for clear views, however they can also be put in listed buildings since they don't require mullions and transoms. They're also a good option for those who live in areas that are difficult to reach as they can be opened with the flick of the handle.

The main drawback of this kind of window is that they can block off large openings, and could limit the use of certain window treatments. They are also difficult to clean since they swing outward, and could require regular maintenance and servicing.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be put in place by a variety of methods. The cost will vary according to the choice of materials thickness, thickness, and the kind of glass. upvc sash windows are generally the most affordable followed by aluminium, and finally how much do wooden sash windows cost window frames. Specialized glass can also add to the price and include extra features, such as sound reduction or security.

Another factor that will influence the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complicated the project, the longer and more labor it will require. This also applies to older homes with more complex sash windows that require specialized knowledge and expertise.

The best way to start is to evaluate the condition of your existing windows. A survey by an experienced professional will give you a precise estimate of what the cost might be.

Generally speaking, secondary glass will have little impact on the overall look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing has thin and subtle frame lines. This allows you to achieve thermal efficiency without compromising aesthetics.

A very popular choice for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which allows an easy access to your windows that are already sash for cleaning or ventilation. They also come with a tilt function, that can be activated by unlocking the catch and then lifting the secondary glazing panel vertically to a predetermined degree. This is great for windows that don't open frequently and can be used to facilitate access for air cooling in bay windows. You can even use them to open up the middle sash on the traditional sash bay windows to create a more symmetrical look.