Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

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

Secondary glazing is a great alternative for sash window and can be installed several ways.

It's an additional pane of glass inside the window frame that stops cold air from getting into your home, while also offering insulation and noise reduction.

Fixed Inserts

If you're thinking of secondary glazing for your sash windows, there are several different styles to choose from. Each style has its own set of benefits that range from increased 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 provides an additional layer of insulation and noiseproofing to your home, increasing its energy efficiency.

However it's not always feasible to add double-glazed windows for your home, especially 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.

In these cases secondary glazing is an excellent alternative that can be put in with ease. It's also a popular choice for those looking to upgrade their period property without the need to tear down the original windows in sash and replace them with contemporary ones.

There are a number of different options for secondary glazing sash windows, each of that can be adapted to fit your frame. Proprietary systems usually have painted aluminium frames which are designed to fit into the depth of a staff bead an existing sash window so that shutters and sills can be kept.

They can be equipped using a variety of installation methods such as glazing clips and Velcro. They offer a more stylish alternative to screw-fixed units and are especially suited for windows that don't need to be opened often. Alternatively, you can opt for a fixed lift-out unit, which can be lifted out and then put back in place with relative ease to allow your windows to be opened.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most sought-after option for enhancing existing sash windows. They are also discrete and suitable for older homes as well as conservation areas and listed properties. In the majority of cases, they can be installed without access from outside because they are operated from the inside.

They are easy to operate using a hand, and can be opened wide or left partially open for ventilation. They are very effective at eliminating draughts and have the added benefit of removing harmful UV light. They can be combined with an insect screen to deter mosquitoes and other insects during summer months.

Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system provides all the benefits of modern double glazing to your traditional sash windows. It comprises of PVC double sliding tracks on the four sides of the cavity with a simple bristle seal around each glass sheet, and finger pull angle handles to serve as handles and reduce bowing. It comes in kits of 1m or 2m track and angle that can be put together to create larger spans.

Secondary glazing can have a significant impact on noise reduction, especially for rail, road and airport traffic. The addition of laminated or toughened glass further enhances the acoustic quality. Secondary glazing that is standard can reduce outside noise by 52dB(Rw) and specialist glass like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can deliver even higher levels of acoustic performance.

It can increase the efficiency of your house by keeping it warm for longer. This can reduce your reliance on central heat. It is much cheaper than replacing your old sash windows and is installed in most cases without the need to remove the existing window or door frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is a cost effective option that is usually more manageable than a complete window replacement. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great option to upgrade mock sash upvc windows windows in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits while keeping the traditional look of older homes.

Vertical Sliders are specifically designed for sash windows where regular hinged panels aren't appropriate. The system is comprised of two secondary sashes, which are secured one above the other within an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances, allowing for ease of movement. The system can be purchased as a 'face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the window) for increased thermal performance, or a'reveal fixed version that is fitted with a glass to glass cavity within the window's original reveal, for optimum acoustic performance.

You can pick from a range of handles and stop-strips to suit your preferences. They can be put in a closed position for additional security, or propped open for ventilation on the glass's top or bottom. They can also be fitted with an insulation bristle to block draughts.

The 'Choices' Imagine vertical slider secondary glass comes with all the authentic wood detailing you'd expect to find in a period window. It comes in a variety of colors that are compatible with your sash. It's almost impossible to differentiate from the original sash windows as features like sash horns and traditional butt 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 loss of heat. The tilt-in feature allows the individual sashes of the window to be hinged inwards to make it easier for cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane secondary glazing sash window glass can be positioned on sash windows of any design, including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units are constructed with secure multi-point locking and are available with a key lock handle. This will ensure that the glazed panel is held securely in place and is pulled tight to the outer frame, forming a seal to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows can be side-hung or top-hung, and they can also be double-glazed. Our double glazed sash window-glazed Windows provide enhanced performance in terms of acoustics and are available in 43dB (for 47dB), 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).

Casement windows are able open to the outside and catch breezes at various angles. This is different from a the horizontal sash window with movable sashes in the frame that slide horizontally. They can also be opened from both the top and bottom for controlled ventilation. This is why they can help improve airflow and are a viable alternative to traditional windows made of sash windows upvc.

They are often utilized in modern homes as they offer a few "sightlines" and unobstructed views. However, they can also be used in listed properties because they don't require transoms or mullions. They can also be utilized in places that are difficult to reach since they are easily opened by turning the handle.

This kind of window could be a problem as it may limit the use of certain window treatments. They are difficult to clean, as they can swing outward. They may also require regular maintenance and service.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be put in place using a variety of ways. The cost will differ depending on your selection of materials thickness, thickness, and the kind of glass. uPVC frames are the least expensive followed by aluminium, and then wooden sash window frames. Specialised glass, as well any additional features like security or sound reduction can also increase prices.

Another factor that will influence the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complicated the installation, the longer and more labour it will take. This is especially true for heritage properties that have more intricate design of sash windows.

Analyzing the condition of windows in use is a good place to begin. You can get an accurate estimate of the cost by having them checked by professionals.

Generally speaking, secondary glazing will have minimal impact on the overall appearance of your home. This is thanks to the fact that the modern FINEO double-glazing has slim and discreet frame lines, so you can get the most efficient thermal performance without sacrificing aesthetics.

The horizontal sliding secondary glazing is popular due to its easy access to the sash window for cleaning or ventilation. They also come with a tilt feature which can be activated by opening the catch and then lifting the secondary glazing panel vertically up to a certain level. This is ideal for windows that aren't opened very often. 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 more symmetrical appearance.