Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are unable to install new double glazing on their homes, either because of financial limitations or because they live in listed buildings which prohibit any exterior modifications.

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

It's an additional pane of glass within the window frame, which blocks 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 you can pick from. Each style offers each of its own benefits that range from increased security to reduced condensation. Which one is best for you?

The principle behind secondary glazing is to install an additional glass pane within the frame of your existing window. This adds a layer of insulation and noiseproofing to your home, increasing its energy efficiency.

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

Secondary glazing is a great alternative in these circumstances. It can be installed quite easily. It's also a popular option for those who want to modernize their period property without the need to tear down the original sash windows and replace them with modern ones.

There are a number of different options available for secondary glazing sash windows, each one of that can be adapted to fit your frame. The proprietary systems typically feature painted aluminium frames that are designed to fit into the depth of a staff bead an existing sash window so that shutters and sills can still be retained.

These can be fitted using a variety of methods for installation, including glazing clips or Velcro. They offer a more stylish solution than screw-fixed units, and are particularly 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 lifted out and then reinstalled to open your windows.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal Sliders provide excellent thermal insulation and are the most well-known option for enhancing existing sash windows. They are also very discreet and are ideal for historic buildings, conservation areas, and listed properties. In most cases, they are installed without having access to the outside since they are operated from the inside.

They can be operated by hand, and they can be left open or partially closed for ventilation. They are effective in preventing draughts, and they also filter harmful UV light. They can be used in combination with an insect screen to deter mosquitoes and other insects during summer months.

Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system provides all the advantages of modern double glazing for your classic box sash windows windows. It is comprised of PVC double sliding tracks that run across all four sides of the cavity and an easy bristle seal around each glass sheet, and finger pull angle handles that act as a handle and reduce bowing. It is available in kits of 1m or 2m lengths of track and an angle, which can be joined to make larger spans.

The acoustic benefits of secondary glazing are important and can enhance noise reduction from outside, particularly the airport, rail and road traffic. The addition of laminated or toughened glass further enhances acoustic performance. Secondary glazing that is standard reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and specialist glass, like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass, can achieve even higher levels of acoustic efficiency.

It can improve the energy efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer for longer and decreasing dependence on central heating. It is less expensive than replacing your sash windows, and can be installed in most cases without the need to take out the window or door frame.

Vertical Sliders

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

Vertical Sliders are designed especially for sash windows where regular hinged panels don't work. The system is comprised of two secondary sashes, which are secured one over one within an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances that allow for ease of movement. The system can be installed on the inside of a window to provide more efficient thermal performance, or it can be fitted with an opening between the glass and the frame for optimum acoustic properties.

You can choose from a variety of handles and stop-strips to suit your preferences. They can be fixed 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 seal that can keep out drafts.

The 'Choices' vertical slider secondary glass has all the authentic wood detailing you'd expect in a period window treatment. It comes in a variety of colors that will match your existing sash window repair. It's almost impossible to differentiate from the original sash window, with features like the sash's horns and traditional butt joints being incorporated into the design. It is available in various sizes and can be fitted with glass up to 6.8mm for additional insulation against heat loss. 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 hinged secondary glass can be incorporated into sash windows of any style such as traditional and casement sash. Our hinged units can be equipped with a keylock handle, and are constructed with multi-point locking. This ensures that the glass panel is secured securely in place and pulls tightly against the frame, creating a seal to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows can be purchased as either top or side hung and are also available as double-glazed. Our double-glazed windows provide enhanced acoustic performance and are available in 43dB,47dB or 51dB.

Unlike horizontal sash windows, with movable sashes that slide horizontally within the frame, casement windows can open outwards and catch breezes from various angles. They can be opened from the top and bottom to allow controlled airflow. This is why they can help improve airflow and provide an effective alternative to traditional sash windows.

They are commonly used in modern homes because they have small "sightlines" and unobstructed views, but can also be used in listed properties because they do not require transoms or mullions. They are also a good choice for hard-to-reach areas as they can be opened with the twist of a handle.

This kind of window can be a drawback since it could limit the use of certain window treatments. They can be difficult to clean as they swing outwards. They could also require regular maintenance and service.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be installed using a variety of ways. The cost of installation will vary according to the preference of the materials such as thickness, thickness and type of glass. uPVC frames are the least expensive followed by aluminium, and wooden frames. Specialized glass can also add to the cost, as well as any additional features such as sound reduction or security.

Another aspect that can affect the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complex the project will take longer and more labour will be required. This is also true for historic properties with more intricate sash windows that require expertise and knowledge.

The best way to start is to assess the condition of your existing windows. Having them surveyed by an experienced professional will give you a precise estimate of what the price might be.

In general secondary glazing can have little effect on the appearance of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing is thin and subtle frame lines. This lets you get the most efficient heat without compromising aesthetics.

A very popular choice for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which gives easy access to your existing sash windows for cleaning or ventilation. They can also be purchased with a tilt function, which you can activate by releasing the catch on the secondary glass panel and then lifting it vertically to a set point. This is ideal for windows that aren't opened often. It can also be used to permit air conditioning access to bay windows. It is also possible to use them to open up the middle sash window repairs on a traditional sash bay window to create a more uniform look.