Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are not able to add new double glazing to their homes, either because of financial constraints or because they live in listed buildings that restrict any modifications to the exterior.

Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative to sash windows. It can be put in various ways.

It consists of an extra pane of glass inside the window frame that blocks cold air from entering your home, as well as providing insulation and noise reduction.

Fixed Inserts

There are many different styles of secondary glazing available for sash windows. Each style comes with distinct advantages including increased security and less condensation. Which is the most effective choice for you?

The fundamental idea behind secondary glazing is the installation of an additional glass pane within your window frame. This adds an additional layer of insulation and noiseproofing to your home, enhancing its energy efficiency.

However it's not always possible to install new 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.

In these instances secondary glazing is an excellent alternative that can be set up with relative ease. It's a popular choice for those looking to update their period home without having to replace the original sash window with a modern one.

There are a variety of different systems available for secondary glazing sash windows, each of which is configurable to suit your existing frame. Proprietary systems are generally constructed of painted aluminium frames that fit into the existing bead depth on the sash window. This lets shutters and sills be retained.

These can be fitted using a variety of methods for installation, such as glazing clips or Velcro. They offer a more stylish alternative to screw-fixed units and are ideally suited to windows that don't need to be opened regularly. You can also opt for a fixed lift-out device that can be easily removed and reinstalled to allow you to open your windows.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal Sliders provide excellent thermal insulation and are the most sought-after option for enhancing existing sash windows. They are also very discrete and ideal for historic 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 are easy to operate using a hand, and can be open wide or left partially open to allow for ventilation. They are extremely effective in eliminating draughts and offer the added benefit of filtering out harmful UV light. In summer, they can be used with a flyscreen to keep out insects and mosquitoes.

Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system offers all the benefits of modern double glazing for your classic sash window locks windows. It consists of PVC double sliding track that runs across all four sides of cavity, a simple brush seal around each sheet of glass and finger pull angle handle to function as a hand and decrease bowing. It is available in kits with 1m or 2m of track and angle that can be put together to create larger spans.

The acoustic benefits of second glazing are very significant and it can significantly improve noise reduction from outside especially the airport, rail and road traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass further enhances acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing can reduce outside noise to 52dB(Rw) and specialized glass such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can provide even greater levels of acoustic performances.

It can improve the energy efficiency of your house by keeping it warmer for longer. This will decrease the use of central heating. It is much cheaper than replacing your original sash windows, and can be installed almost everywhere without the need to take out the existing window or door frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is a cost-effective alternative that is usually more manageable than full window replacement and is perfectly 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 originality.

Vertical Sliders are designed especially for sash windows, where regular hinged panels aren't suitable. The system has two secondary sashes, which are fixed one above one within an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances that allow for effortless movement. The system is available as a face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the existing window) to improve thermal performance, or a'reveal fixed version that has a glass to glass cavity inside the window reveal, for optimal sound quality.

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 allow for ventilation, or they can be placed in an open position for additional security. They can also be equipped with an insulating bristle seal that can stop draughts.

Imagine a vertical slider with 'Choices' secondary glazing features all the timber-like details you'd expect from an antique window treatment and comes in a variety of colors to match your existing sash. It's nearly impossible to distinguish from original sash windows as details like sash window renovation horns as well as traditional butt joints are integrated into the design. It is available in various sizes and can accept glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to heat loss. The tilt-in option allows the sashes of each window to be hinged upwards on safety stays for easier cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane hinged secondary glazing can be incorporated into windows made of sash in any style including casement and traditional box sash windows sash. The hinged units we offer are made with a secure multi-point locking system and are available with keys and a handle for the lock. This will ensure that the glass panel is secured securely in place, and it pulls tight to the outer frame, forming 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 sound insulation 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 from different angles. This is unlike the horizontal sash window which has movable sashes within the frame that slide horizontally. They can also be opened from both the top and bottom for controlled airflow. This is why they can improve airflow and are a viable alternative to traditional windows with sash.

They are commonly used in modern homes due to their small "sightlines" that allow for clear views, however they can also be incorporated into listed properties because they do not require transoms and mullions. They can also be used in areas that are difficult to access since they are easily opened by turning the handle.

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

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be installed with a variety of methods and the cost will vary according to the type, thickness and materials you choose for your frames and panes. uPVC windows are usually the most affordable, followed by aluminium and then wooden window frames. Specialized glass may also increase the cost and include extra features, such as security or noise reduction.

The complexity of the installation will also influence the cost. The more complex the project will take longer and more labor will be required. This can also apply to historic properties with more intricate sash windows that require expertise and knowledge.

Assessing the condition of existing windows is a good way to start. You can get a precise estimate of the cost by having them inspected by a professional.

In general secondary glazing can have little effect on the look of your home. This is thanks to the fact that modern FINEO double glazing is sleek and subtle frame lines, which means you can get the most efficient thermal performance without sacrificing aesthetics.

A very popular choice for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which allows easy access to your existing sash windows for cleaning or ventilation. These are also available with a tilt feature which can be activated by releasing the catch and raising your secondary glazing panel vertically to a predetermined level. This is a great option for windows that don't get opened very often. It can be used to provide air conditioning access in bay windows. It is also possible to make use of them to open the middle sash on an old-fashioned sash bay window to create a more uniform look.