Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are not able to add double glazing to their house, either due to financial constraints or because the building is listed and modifications to the exterior are not permitted.
Secondary glazing for windows made of sash is an excellent alternative and can be installed in various ways.
It's an additional pane of glass inside the window frame, which stops cold air from getting into your home, while offering insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
If you're thinking about secondary glazing for your sash windows, there are several different styles to pick from. Each has its own set of benefits, from increased security to less condensation. Which one is best for you?
The fundamental idea behind secondary glazing is to fit an additional glass inside the window frame. This creates an extra layer of soundproofing and insulation which can greatly improve the energy efficiency of your home.
It's not always practical to install double-glazed windows especially if your home is an listed property or you are bound by strict planning regulations dictating what can and can't be done with your exterior.
In these instances secondary glazing is a great alternative that can be installed with ease. It's also a popular option for those who want to modernize their old home without having to tear down the original windows with sash and replace them with new ones.
There are many different systems available for secondary glazing sash windows, each one of which is configurable to suit your frame. The proprietary systems are typically comprised of painted aluminum frames that fit the existing bead depth on a sash window. This allows sills and shutters to be kept.
They can be equipped using a variety of methods for installation, such as glazing clips or Velcro. These are more appealing than screw-fixed ones and are ideal for windows that don't need to be opened often. You can also opt for a fixed lift out unit that can be lifted out and then put back in place with relative ease, allowing your windows to be opened.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal sliders are the most well-known method of enhancing the appearance of a windows with sash. They are also very discreet and suitable for older buildings, conservation areas & listed properties. In most cases, they are installed without access from outside because they operate from inside.
They can be operated with a hand and can be left open or partially closed for ventilation. They are effective at keeping out draughts, and also filter harmful UV light. In the summer they can be paired together with a flyscreen to keep out insects and mosquitoes.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the benefits of modern double glazing to your original box sash windows windows. It is comprised of PVC double sliding track on all four sides of the cavity with a brush seal around each sheet of glass and a finger pull angle handle to function as a hand, reducing bowing. It comes in kits of 1m or 2m track and angle that can be stacked together to create bigger spans.
Secondary glazing can have a significant effect on noise reduction, specifically for road, rail and airport traffic. The addition of laminated or toughened glass further enhances acoustic performance. Secondary glazing that is standard can reduce outside noise by 52dB(Rw) and specialized glass such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can provide even greater levels of acoustic performances.
It can increase the efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer for longer and reducing reliance on central heating. It's less expensive than replacing sash cords the original sash window and can be installed without the need to remove the existing frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective choice that is typically simpler to manage than a full window replacement. It is also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's an excellent way to upgrade traditional sash Windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their distinctive character.
Vertical Sliders were developed for use in mock sash upvc windows windows in which hinged panels from the standard range would not be suitable. The system has two secondary sashes, which are secured one above the other within 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 which is fitted with a glass to glass cavity, within the original window reveal, for optimum acoustic performance.
You can pick from a variety of stop-strips and handles that suit your preferences. They can be fixed in the closed position to provide additional security, or propped open for ventilation on the top or bottom glass. They can also be equipped with an insulating bristle sealing device to keep out draughts.
Imagine vertical sliders in 'Choices' secondary glazing has all the timber-like details you'd expect from a period window treatment. It's available in an array of colours to match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to differentiate from the original sash window, with features like sash horns and traditional butt joints included in the design. It is available in many sizes and can be fitted with glass up to 6.8mm to provide additional insulation against loss of heat. A tilt-in option is available to allow the individual sashes of the frame to hinge inward on safety stays to help with cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane hinged secondary glazing can be fitted to windows made of sash in 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 will ensure that the glass panel is secured securely in place, and it pulls close to the frame, creating a seal to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows are available either side or top hung and can also be constructed with double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced performance in terms of acoustics and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) or 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).
Casement windows are able open to the outside and catch breezes from different angles. This is in contrast to 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 to provide controlled ventilation. This is why they can improve airflow and provide an effective alternative to traditional sash window restoration near me windows.
They are commonly utilized in modern homes as they offer a few "sightlines" and unobstructed views, but can also be incorporated into listed properties due to the fact that they do not require transoms or mullions. They are also a good option for areas that are difficult to access since they can be opened with the twist of a handle.
The primary drawback to this kind of window is that it can block off large openings, and could limit the use of certain window treatments. They can also be difficult to clean since they open outwards, and may require regular maintenance and servicing.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be set up in a variety of ways and the price will vary depending on the type, thickness and materials you select for your panes and frame. uPVC frames are the least expensive, followed by aluminium and then wooden double glazed sash windows frames. Specialized glass, in addition to any additional features like security or sound reduction may also raise prices.
Another factor that will influence the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complicated the installation, the more time and labour will be required. This is also applicable to older properties with more complex designs for sash windows.
Analyzing the condition of windows that are in use is a good way to start. You can get a precise estimate of the cost by having them examined by an expert.
Generally speaking, secondary glass will have a minimal impact on the overall appearance of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing has thin and subtle frame lines. This lets you achieve thermal efficiency without compromising aesthetics.
A very popular choice for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which allows easy access to existing sash windows for cleaning or ventilation. These windows also come with a tilt feature, that can be activated by unlocking the catch and lifting your secondary glazing panel vertically to a specified degree. This is a great option for windows that aren't opened frequently and can be used to allow access to air conditioning in bay windows. You can also use them to open the middle sash of a traditional Bay Window to create a symmetrical appearance.