Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

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

Secondary glazing for sash windows is a good alternative that can be put in in various ways.

It is made up of an additional pane of glass within the existing window frame which stops cold air from entering your home, while providing insulation and noise reduction.

Fixed Inserts

If you're thinking about secondary glazing for your sash windows there are many different styles to choose from. Each has its own set of benefits, from improved security to reduced condensation. Which one is the best option for you?

The basic idea behind secondary glazing is to fit an additional glass into your existing window frame. This adds an additional layer of soundproofing and insulation which can dramatically improve the energy efficiency of your home.

It's not always possible to install double-glazed windows particularly if your house is classified as a historic property or if you are bound by strict planning regulations that dictate what can and can't be done to your exterior.

In these situations, secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative that can be set up with relative ease. It's also a popular option for those who want to modernize their old home without having to take down the original sash windows and replace them with new ones.

There are a variety of different options for secondary glazing sash windows, all of which is configurable to suit the frame you have. Proprietary systems typically have painted aluminium frames that are designed to fit into the depth of a staff bead an existing sash window, so that shutters and sills are still able to be used.

They can be equipped with a variety of installation methods such as glazing clips and Velcro. These are more appealing than screw-fixed units and are best suited for windows that do not require to be opened often. You can also choose a fixed lift out unit, which can be lifted and put back in place with ease, allowing your windows to be opened.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most sought-after solution to improve the performance of existing sash windows. They are also very discrete and suitable for older structures, conservation areas and listed properties. They can be installed in the majority of cases without 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 opened to allow ventilation. They are effective in stopping draughts and also filter harmful UV light. In the summer they can be paired together with a flyscreen to keep out insects and mosquitoes.

Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system offers all the advantages of modern double glazed sash window glazing for your classic sash windows. It consists of PVC double sliding track on all four sides of cavity and a simple brush seal around each sheet of glass and a handle for a finger pull angle to act as a hand, reducing bowing. It is available in kits of 1m or 2m lengths of track and angle which can be joined to create larger spans.

The acoustic advantages of secondary glazing are important and can reduce noise from outside especially railway, road and airport traffic. The addition of laminated glass or toughened glasses improves the acoustic performance. Secondary glazing that is standard can reduce outside noise by 52dB(Rw) and specialized glass such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can achieve even higher levels of acoustic performance.

It can increase the energy efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer for longer and reducing reliance on central heating. It is much cheaper than replacing your sash windows, and can be installed in most cases without the need to remove the existing window or door frame.

Vertical Sliders

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

Vertical Sliders are designed especially for sash windows where regular hinged panels don't work. The system features two secondary sashes, which are secured one above the other within an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances to allow for ease of movement. The system is available as a face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the window) to improve thermal performance or a 'reveal-fixed' version which has a glass-to-glass cavity, within the original window reveal, to ensure optimal acoustic performance.

They can be equipped with a variety of stops and handles to accommodate the preferences of the homeowner, propping open either the top or bottom pane to allow for ventilation or placed in the closed position to provide security. They can also be equipped with an insulating bristle sealing device to keep out drafts.

'Choices’ Imagine vertical slider secondary glass features the same authentic wood details you'd expect to see in a window covering from the past. It is available in a variety of colors that will match your existing sash. It's nearly impossible to distinguish from original sash windows as details like sash horns and traditional joints are integrated into the design. It's available in a wide range of sizes and accepts glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to prevent heat loss. A tilt-in option is also available that allows the individual sashes of the frame to hinge into the safety stays for easier cleaning.

Hinged Casement

The single-pane hinged secondary glazing can be incorporated into sash windows of any style such as traditional and casement sash. Our hinged units are constructed with secure multi-point locking and can be supplied with keys lock handles. This combination ensures the glazed panel is held securely in place, and it pulls tightly against the frame, creating a seal to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows can be top-hung or side-hung, and they can also be double-glazed. Our double-glazed windows provide enhanced audio-acoustic performance. They are available in 43dB, 47dB and 51dB.

Unlike horizontal sash windows, which have movable sashes that slide horizontally within the frame, casement windows can be opened outward and capture breezes from a variety of angles. They can be opened both from the top and bottom for controlled ventilation. Because of this, they can help improve airflow and provide an effective alternative to traditional sash windows.

They are used in modern homes due to their small "sightlines" that allow for unobstructed view, but they can also be put in listed buildings since they do not require transoms or mullions. They can also be utilized in hard-to-reach places as they can be opened by turning the handle.

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

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be put in place using a variety of ways. The cost of installation will vary depending on your preference of the materials, thickness, and type of glass. upvc double glazed sash windows windows are usually the least expensive, followed by aluminium and finally wooden sash window window frames. Specialised glass can also increase the cost, as well as any extra features, such as sound reduction or security.

The complexity of the installation will impact the cost. The more complicated the project is, the more time and labour will be required. This can also apply to heritage properties with more intricate sash windows that require specialized knowledge and expertise.

Analyzing the condition of existing windows is a good place to start. You can get a reliable estimate of the cost by having them inspected by a professional.

In general secondary glazing has an insignificant impact on the appearance of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing has slim and distinct frame lines. This allows you to achieve thermal efficiency without compromising aesthetics.

A popular choice of secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which allows an easy access to your existing sash windows for cleaning or ventilation. They also come with a tilt feature which is activated by opening the catch and lifting the secondary glazing panel vertically to a specified point. This is ideal for windows that don't open often and is a great way to make it easier to access air conditioning in bay windows. You can even make use of them to open the middle sash of a traditional sash bay window to give a more symmetrical appearance.