Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are unable add double glazing to their home, either because of financial limitations or due to the fact that the building is listed and any modifications to the exterior are forbidden.
Secondary glazing for sash windows is a good alternative that can be put in in various ways.
It's an additional glass pane inside the existing window frame which blocks cold air from entering your home, while offering insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
If you're considering secondary glazing for your sash windows there are many different styles to pick from. Each style has distinct advantages ranging from increased security to reduced condensation. Which one is the best option for you?
The principle behind secondary glazing is to install an additional pane of glass inside your existing window frame. This creates an extra layer of insulation and soundproofing, which can significantly increase the efficiency of your home's energy use.
It's not always possible to add double-glazed windows, particularly if you live in classified as a historic property or you are bound by strict planning regulations that dictate what can and cannot be done with your exterior.
In these situations, secondary glazing is an excellent alternative that can be put in with relative ease. It's a popular option for those who want to modernize their home without having to replace the original sash secondary glazing window an updated version.
There are a number of different options for secondary glazing sash windows, all of that can be adapted to fit your existing frame. Proprietary systems typically have painted aluminium frames which are made to fit within the depth of a staff bead an existing sash window, which means that sills and shutters are still able to be used.
They can be equipped with a variety of installation methods, including glazing clips or Velcro. They provide a more attractive alternative to screw-fixed units and are ideally suited to windows that don't need to be opened often. You can also choose an adjustable lift-out unit, which can be lifted out and then put back in place with relative ease, allowing your windows to be opened.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most sought-after solution to improve the performance of existing windows with sash. They are also quiet and suitable for older homes as well as conservation areas and listed property. They can be fitted in the majority of cases without the need for external access as they are operated from inside.
They are simple to operate by hand and can be opened wide or left partially open to allow for ventilation. They are effective in keeping out draughts, and also filter harmful UV light. In the summer, they can be used together with a flyscreen to keep insects out and mosquitoes.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the benefits of modern double glazing to your traditional windows made of sash. It consists of PVC double sliding track on all four sides of the cavity with a brush seal around each glass sheet and a finger pull angle handle to function as a hand and decrease bowing. It is available in kits comprising either 1m or 2m lengths of track and an angle, which can be joined to create larger spans.
The acoustic benefits of second glazing are significant and can dramatically improve noise reduction from outside, particularly railway, road and airport traffic. The use of laminated glass or toughened glasses improves the 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 higher levels of acoustic performance.
It can increase the energy efficiency of your home by keeping it warm for longer. This can reduce the need for central heating. It's less expensive than replacing the original sash window and can be installed without having to remove the existing frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective option which is often more manageable than full window replacement. It's also 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 originality.
Vertical Sliders were developed for sash window applications where regular hinged panels would not be suitable. They come with two secondary sashes which are secured, one above the other, inside an outer frame and are supported by strong spring balances to allow for easy movement. The system is available as a 'face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the window) to improve thermal performance, or a'reveal fixed version, which has a glass-to-glass cavity, within the original window reveal, for optimal sound quality.
You can pick from a variety of handles and stop-strips to match your preferences. They can be fixed in a closed position for extra security or propped open to allow ventilation on the glass's top or bottom. They can also be fitted with an insulating bristle seal to keep out draughts.
'Choices’ Imagine vertical slider secondary glass features all the authentic wood detailing you'd expect to find in a window covering from the past. It comes in a range of colors that match your existing wooden sash window. It is almost impossible to differentiate from the original sash windows, since features like sash horns and traditional butt joints are integrated into the design. It's available in a broad range of sizes and accepts glass up to 6.8mm to provide additional insulation against heat loss. The tilt-in option permits the sashes of each window to be hinged upwards on safety stays for easier cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane secondary glass can be installed on sash windows of any design, including traditional box sash and casement. The hinged units we offer can be supplied with a keylock handle, and are constructed with multi-point locking. This ensures that the glazed panel is held securely in place and is pulled tightly against the frame creating a seal designed to reduce heat loss. Hinged windows can be side-hung or top-hung, and they can also be double-glazed. Double-glazed windows provide better sound insulation and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) and 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).
In contrast to horizontal flush sash windows windows which have movable sashes, slide horizontally within the frame casement windows can be opened outwards and catch breezes from different angles. They can be opened from the top and bottom for controlled ventilation. They are therefore able to improve airflow and are a great alternative to traditional sash window.
They are often employed in modern homes since they offer a few "sightlines" and unobstructed views, but can also be incorporated into listed homes because they don't require transoms or mullions. They're also a good choice for hard-to-reach areas because they can be opened with the twist of the handle.
This kind of window can be a disadvantage because it could limit the use of certain window coverings. They are difficult to clean as they open outward. They may also require regular maintenance and servicing.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be set up using a variety ways and the cost will vary according to the thickness, type and materials you choose for your frame and panes. UPVC windows are typically the least expensive followed by aluminium, and then wooden sash window window frames. Specialized glass can also add to the cost and include additional features such as sound reduction or security.
The complexity of the installation will influence the cost. The more complicated the installation will take longer and more labour will be required. This is also true for heritage properties with more intricate sash window designs.
Assessing the condition of existing windows is a good place to begin. Having them surveyed by a skilled professional will give you an accurate idea of what the costs might be.
Generally speaking, secondary glass will have little impact on the overall appearance of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing features thin and subtle frame lines. This allows you to improve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.
A popular choice of secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which gives an easy access to your existing sash windows for cleaning or ventilation. These are also available with a tilt feature which is activated by unlocking the catch and lifting the secondary glazing panel vertically up to a certain degree. This is a great option for windows that aren't opened often. It can also be used to permit air conditioning access in bay windows. You can use them to open the middle sash in a traditional new sash windows Bay Window to create a more symmetrical appearance.