Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are unable install new double glazing on their homes, either because of financial limitations or because they reside in listed buildings which prohibit any modifications to the exterior.
Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative to sash windows. It can be installed several ways.
It consists of an extra glass pane inside the window frame that stops cold air from getting into your home, while providing insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
If you're thinking of secondary glazing for your sash windows there are a variety of styles to pick from. Each style has distinct advantages including increased security and reduced condensation. Which one is the best option for you?
The fundamental idea behind secondary glazing is fitting an additional glass pane within your window frame. This adds an additional layer of insulation and noiseproofing your home, improving its energy efficiency.
It's not always practical to add double glazed timber sash windows-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 an excellent alternative in these circumstances. It can be installed quite easily. It's also a popular choice for people looking to update their home without having to take down the original windows in 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. Proprietary systems usually have painted aluminium frames which are designed to fit into the depth of a staff bead an existing sash window so that shutters and sills can be kept.
They can be equipped with a variety of installation methods such as glazing clips and Velcro. They offer a more stylish solution than screw-fixed units, and are ideally suited to windows that don't need to be opened regularly. You can also opt for a fixed lift-out unit that can be easily removed and then reinstalled to open your windows.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders provide excellent thermal insulation and are the most popular option for enhancing existing windows with sash. They are also quiet and are ideal for historic homes as well as conservation areas and listed properties. In the majority of cases, they are installed without external access because they are operated from inside.
They are easy to operate by hand and can be open wide or left partially open 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 the summer months.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the advantages of modern double glazing to your original Sash windows. It is comprised of PVC double glazed sash windows cost sliding track that runs across all four sides of cavity, a simple brush seal around each sheet of glass and a handle for a finger pull angle to function as a hand, reducing bowing. It is available in kits comprising either 1m or 2m lengths of track and angle which can be joined to create larger spans.
The acoustic benefits of secondary glazing are very important and can reduce noise from outside especially railway, road and airport traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass further enhances acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing can reduce outside noise by 52dB(Rw) and specialized glass like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can deliver even higher levels of acoustic performance.
It can increase the energy efficiency of your house by keeping it warm for longer. This will reduce the need for central heating. It is cheaper 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 and is perfectly suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great way to upgrade traditional sash Windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their originality.
Vertical Sliders were developed for sash window applications in which hinged panels from the standard range would not be suitable. They have two secondary sashes that are secured, one over the other, within an outer frame. They are supported by sturdy spring balances for ease of movement. The system can be placed on the inside of an existing window to ensure better thermal performance, or it can be fitted with a cavity between the frame and the glass to maximize acoustic properties.
You can pick from a range of handles and stop-strips to suit your preferences. They can be positioned in the 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 insulation bristle to block drafts.
Imagine vertical sliders in 'Choices' secondary glazing has the same authentic wood detailing you'd expect from a vintage window treatment. It's also available in a variety of colors to match your existing sash. It is almost impossible to distinguish from the original sash windows, as features like sash horns and traditional joints are included in the design. It's available in an extensive range of sizes and accepts glass up to 6.8mm to give additional insulation against heat loss. The tilt-in feature allows the individual sashes of the window to be hinged upwards on safety stays for easier cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane hinged secondary glazing can be fitted to windows in sash of any design including casement and traditional box sash. The hinged units we offer are made with a secure multi-point locking system and can be supplied with a key lock handle. This ensures that the glazed panel is securely secured and is pulled tightly against the frame, forming a seal to reduce heat loss. Hinged windows are available as either top or side-hung and can also be made by double-glazing. 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).
In contrast to 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 for controlled ventilation. They also increase airflow and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash window sash repairs.
They are typically used in modern homes because they offer small "sightlines" and unobstructed views, but can also be fitted into listed homes because they don't require transoms or mullions. They're also a great option for those who live in areas that are difficult to reach as they can be opened by the turn of the handle.
This type of window can be a problem as it may limit the use of certain window coverings. They can be difficult to clean as they swing outwards. They also may require regular maintenance and care.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be put in in a variety of ways and the price will vary depending on the thickness, type and the materials you select for your frame and panes. UPVC windows are generally the most affordable followed by aluminium, and finally wooden window frames. Specialized glass may also increase the price and include additional features like security or noise reduction.
Another factor that will influence the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complicated the installation, the more time and labor will be required. This is also true for older homes with more complex sash windows, which require specialist knowledge and expertise.
Assessing the condition of windows in use is a good way to start. A survey by an experienced professional will give you a precise estimate of what the price might be.
Generally speaking, secondary glazing will have a minimal impact on the overall look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing has slim and distinct frame lines. This allows you to improve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.
A very popular choice for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which allows easy access to your windows that are already sash for cleaning or ventilation. They can also be purchased with a tilt function, which you can activate by unlocking the catch on the secondary glazing panel and lifting it vertically to a preset point. This is a great option for windows that aren't used often and can be used to make it easier to access air cooling in bay windows. It is also possible to use them to open the middle sash of a traditional sash bay window to give a more symmetrical appearance.