Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are unable to add new double glazing to their homes due to financial constraints or because they live in listed buildings that restrict any exterior modifications.
Secondary glazing for windows with sash is a great alternative that can be put in in various ways.
This product is a double-paned window that fits into the frame of your window. It provides insulation and noise reduction, while stopping cold air from entering your home.
Fixed Inserts
If you're thinking about secondary glazing for your sash windows there are a variety of styles to pick from. Each style has distinct advantages including increased security and less condensation. Which one is best for you?
The basic premise of secondary glazing is to install an additional glass within your window frame. This provides an additional layer of insulation and noiseproofing your home, improving its energy efficiency.
However it's not always possible to add double-glazed windows for your home particularly if you reside in a listed building or are subject to strict regulations regarding planning 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 also a popular option for those looking to upgrade their home without having to tear down the original windows in sash and replace them with modern ones.
There are many different options for secondary glazing sash windows, each one of which is configurable to suit your frame. Proprietary systems usually have painted aluminium frames which are made to fit within the depth of a staff bead an existing sash window meaning that shutters and sills can still be retained.
They can be installed using a variety of installation methods that include glazing clips and Velcro. These are more appealing than screw-fixed units and are best suited for windows that don't need to be opened often. You can also select an unfixed lift-out unit that can be easily lifted out and then reinstalled to open your windows.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most popular solution for improving existing windows made of sash. They are also discreet and suitable for older homes or conservation areas as well as listed properties. In the majority of instances, they can be installed without having access to the outside since they operate from inside.
They are easy to operate with a hand and can be opened wide or left partially open for ventilation. They are extremely effective in getting rid of draughts, and have the added benefit of removing harmful UV light. In summer they can be paired with a flyscreen in order to keep insects out and mosquitoes.
Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the benefits of double glazing for the original sash window. It is comprised of PVC double sliding track on all four sides of the cavity and a simple brush seal around each sheet of glass and a finger pull angle handle to function as a hand 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 can further improve acoustic performance. Secondary glazing that is standard reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and specialist glass, such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can provide even more impressive levels of acoustic performance.
It can boost the efficiency of your house by keeping it warm for longer. This will reduce your reliance on central heat. It is less expensive than replacing the original sash window, and can be installed without having to remove the frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost effective alternative that is usually less expensive than full window replacement. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great option to upgrade traditional sash Windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their character.
Vertical Sliders are specifically designed for sash windows, where regular hinged panels aren't appropriate. The system features two secondary sashes that are fixed one above the other inside an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances to allow for easy 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 an air cavity for glass within the window's original reveal, for optimum audio-acoustic performance.
You can pick from a range of handles and stop-strips to meet your needs. They can be positioned in the closed position to provide additional security or propped open for ventilation on the glass's top or bottom. They can be fitted with an insulation bristle to block draughts.
'Choices’ Imagine vertical slider secondary glass features all the authentic wood detailing you'd expect to see in a period window treatment. It is available in a variety of colours that match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to distinguish from the original mock sash upvc windows windows as features like sash horns and traditional joints are incorporated into the design. It is available in many sizes and can be fitted with glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to loss of heat. The tilt-in option permits the individual sashes of the window to be hinged inwards to make it easier for cleaning.
Hinged Casement
The single-pane hinged secondary glazing can be fitted to sash windows of any style such as casement and traditional box sash window restoration near me. Our hinged units are manufactured with secure multi-point locking and are available with keys lock handles. This ensures that the glass panel is securely secured and is pulled tightly to the frame, forming a sealing to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows can be purchased as either side or top hung and are also available by double-glazing. Double-glazed windows are a great way to improve sound insulation and are available in 43dB, 47dB and 51dB.
Casement windows are able to open outwards and catch breezes at various angles. This is in contrast to a the horizontal sash window with movable sashes in the frame that move horizontally. They can be opened from the top and bottom to allow controlled airflow. They are therefore able to improve airflow, and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash window.
They are often employed in modern homes since they offer small "sightlines" and unobstructed views. They can also be incorporated into listed homes because they don't require transoms or mullions. They are also a good choice for hard-to-reach areas because they can be opened by the flick of a handle.
The primary disadvantage of this kind 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 open outward. They may also require regular maintenance and care.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be put in place by a variety of methods. The cost of installation will vary according to the selection of materials, thickness, and kind of glass. UPVC windows are generally the most affordable, followed by aluminium and finally wooden sash window window frames. Specialized glass may also increase the cost and include additional features like security or sound reduction.
The complexity of the installation will also affect the cost. The more complicated the project will take longer and more labour will be required. This is also applicable to older properties that have more intricate sash window designs.
Examining the condition of your existing windows is a good way to begin. The survey conducted by a skilled professional will give you a precise idea of what the costs might be.
Generally speaking, secondary glass will have little impact on the overall look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing features thin and discrete frame lines. This allows you to get the most efficient heat without compromising aesthetics.
The horizontal sliding secondary glazing option is a popular choice because it permits easy access to the existing sash window to clean or for ventilation. It is also possible to get them with a tilt function, which you can activate by unlocking the catch on your secondary glazing panel and then lifting it vertically to a preset point. This is great for windows that aren't opened frequently and can be used to allow access to air conditioning in bay windows. You can even use them to open the middle sash on a traditional flush sash windows bay window to create a more uniform look.