Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are unable to install new double glazing on their homes, either because of financial constraints or because they reside in listed buildings that restrict any modifications to the exterior.
Secondary glazing for windows with sash is a great alternative that can be put in with a variety of ways.
This is a double-paned, insulated glass that can be placed inside the window frame you already have. It offers insulation and noise reduction, as well as preventing cold air from entering the home.
Fixed Inserts
If you're thinking about secondary glazing for your sash windows, there are many different styles you can pick from. Each has its own set of advantages, from improved security to reduced condensation. Which one is best for you?
The fundamental idea behind secondary glazing is to install an additional glass inside your existing window frame. This adds a layer of insulation and noiseproofing your home, improving its energy efficiency.
It's not always feasible to install double-glazed windows especially if your home is an listed property or if you are bound by strict planning regulations dictating what can and cannot be done to your exterior.
In these situations, secondary glazing is an excellent alternative that can be installed with relative ease. It's also a popular option for people looking to update their period property without having to take down the original sash windows and replace them with contemporary ones.
There are a variety of different options for secondary glazing sash windows, all of that can be adapted to fit your frame. Proprietary systems are usually made of painted aluminum frames that fit the existing depth of the staff bead on a sash window. This allows sills and shutters to remain.
They can be fitted with different installation methods like glazing clips or Velcro. These offer a more aesthetic solution to screw-fixed units and are especially suited for windows that do not need to be opened often. You can also opt for a fixed lift-out device that can be easily removed and then reinstalled to open your windows.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most well-known solution for improving existing sash windows. They are also very discrete and suitable for older buildings, conservation areas & listed properties. In most instances, they can be installed without external access because they are operated from the inside.
They are simple to operate by hand and can be opened wide or left partially open for ventilation. They are effective at stopping draughts and also block harmful UV light. In summer they can be paired with a flyscreen to keep insects out and mosquitoes.
Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the advantages of double glazing for the original Sash window. It consists of PVC double sliding track on all four sides of the cavity, a simple brush seal around each glass sheet and a finger pull angle handle to function as a hand, reducing bowing. It is available in kits comprising either 1m or 2m lengths of track and an angle, which can be butted together to make larger spans.
The acoustic benefits of second glazing are extremely important and can enhance noise reduction from outside, especially railway, road and airport traffic. The use of laminated glass or toughened glasses enhances the acoustic performance. Secondary glazing that is standard reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and special glass, like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can deliver even higher levels of acoustic performance.
It can boost 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 almost everywhere without the need to remove the existing window or door frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is an affordable option that is usually easier to manage than full window replacement. It is suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great way to improve the look of traditional sash windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their character.
Vertical Sliders are specifically designed for sash windows where regular hinged panels aren't suitable. They feature two secondary sashes that are secured to one sash over the other, within an outer frame. They are supported by strong spring balances for ease of movement. The system is available as a 'face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the existing window sash repairs) to improve thermal efficiency or a'reveal-fixed version that has a glass to glass cavity inside the window reveal, for optimal audio-acoustic performance.
They can be equipped with a variety stops and handles to suit the homeowner's preferences by allowing the bottom or top pane to let in air or fixed in an open position for additional security. They can also be fitted with an insulating bristle seal to stop draughts.
Imagine vertical sliders in 'Choices' secondary glazing has all the authentic timber detailing you'd expect from an antique window treatment. It's available in an array of colours to match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to distinguish from the original sash windows, as details such as 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 provide additional insulation against heat loss. A tilt-in option is also available that allows the individual sashes to hinge inward on safety stays to help with cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane secondary glazing can be installed on sash windows of any design, including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units are constructed with a secure multi-point locking system and can be supplied with keys and a handle for the lock. This combination ensures the glazed panel is held securely in place, and it pulls close to the frame creating a seal designed to minimize heat loss. Hinged windows can be side-hung or top-hung, and they can also be double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced performance in terms of acoustics and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) and 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).
Contrary to horizontal sash windows with movable sashes that slide horizontally within the frame casement windows are able to open outwards and catch breezes from different angles. They can be opened from the top and bottom to allow controlled ventilation. This is why they can improve airflow and provide an effective alternative to traditional windows made of sash window restoration near me.
They are commonly utilized in modern homes as they have small "sightlines" and unobstructed views. They can also be incorporated into listed properties because they don't require transoms or mullions. They can also be utilized in places that are difficult to reach since they can be opened simply by turning the handle.
The main drawback of this type of window is that it can block large openings and may restrict the use of certain window treatments. They can be difficult to clean, as they can swing outwards. They also 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 according to the selection of materials such as thickness, thickness and kind of glass. Upvc frames are the most expensive, followed by aluminium and then wooden sash windows frames. Specialised glass can also increase the cost and also any additional features like sound reduction or security.
The complexity of the installation will impact the cost. The more complex the project, the longer and more labour it will take. This is also applicable to older properties with more intricate sash window designs.
Assessing the condition of existing windows is a good place to begin. You can get an accurate estimate of the cost by having them checked by an expert.
Generally speaking, secondary glazing will have minimal impact on the overall look of your home. This is thanks to the fact that modern FINEO double glazing is slim and discreet frames, meaning you can achieve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.
The horizontal sliding secondary glazing is popular due to its easy access to the existing sash window to clean or for ventilation. These windows 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 aren't opened 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 an old-fashioned sash bay window to create a more uniform look.