Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are not able to install new double glazing on their homes, either because of financial constraints or because they live in listed buildings which prohibit any exterior changes.
Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative to sash windows. It can be put in various ways.
It is made up of an additional glass pane inside the window frame, which prevents cold air from entering your home, while also offering insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
If you're considering secondary glazing for your sash windows there are a variety of styles you can pick from. Each style has each of its own benefits that range from increased security to reduced condensation. Which is the most effective option for you?
The principle behind secondary glazing is to fit an additional glass pane into your existing window frame. This provides an additional layer of insulation and noiseproofing to your home, improving its energy efficiency.
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 to your exterior.
Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative in these situations. It can be set up relatively easily. It's also a popular choice for those who want to modernize their period property without having to take down the original windows in sash and replace them with modern ones.
There are a variety of different options for secondary glazing sash windows, each one of that can be adapted to fit the frame you have. Proprietary systems usually have painted aluminium frames that are made to fit within the depth of a staff bead on an existing timber sash window window so that shutters and sills can be kept.
They can be equipped with different installation methods like glazing clips or Velcro. These types of units look more attractive than screw-fixed units and are ideal for windows that do not require to be opened often. Alternately, you can opt for an adjustable lift-out unit that can be lifted and put back in place with relative ease to allow windows to be opened.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders provide excellent thermal insulation and are the most popular solution for improving existing windows with sash. They are also very discrete and are ideal for historic buildings, conservation areas & listed properties. They can be installed with the need for access from outside because they are operated from inside.
They can be operated by hand and can be left open or partially opened to allow ventilation. They are extremely effective in eliminating draughts and they also have the benefit of removing harmful UV light. They can be used in combination with an insect screen to deter mosquitoes and other insects during summer months.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system provides all the advantages of modern double glazing to your original windows made of sash. It consists of PVC double sliding track that runs across all four sides of the cavity, a simple brush seal around each glass sheet and finger pull angle handle to function as a hand and reduce bowing. It comes in kits with 1m or 2m of 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 use of laminated glass or toughened glasses further enhances the acoustic performances. Standard secondary glazing reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and specialist glass, like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can deliver higher levels of acoustic efficiency.
It can improve the efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer for longer, and reducing dependence on central heating. It is less expensive than replacing the original bespoke sash windows window, and can be installed without having to remove the existing frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective option that is typically easier to manage than full window replacement. It's suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great option to upgrade traditional sash Windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their distinctive character.
Vertical Sliders are designed especially for windows with sash openings where standard hinged panels aren't suitable. The system features two secondary sashes that are fixed one above one within an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances, allowing for easy movement. The system can be purchased as a 'face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the window) for improved thermal performance or a 'reveal-fixed version, which is fitted with a glass-to-glass cavity, within the original window reveal, to ensure optimal acoustic performance.
You can choose from a variety of handles and stop-strips to suit your preferences. They can be put in the closed position for additional 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.
'Choices' Imagine vertical slider secondary glazing features all the authentic timber sash window detailing you'd expect from a vintage window treatment. It's available in an array of colours to match your existing sash. It is almost impossible to differentiate from the original sash windows as details such as sash horns as well as traditional butt joints are incorporated into the design. It is available in various sizes and can take glass up to 6.8mm to provide additional insulation against loss of heat. The tilt-in option permits the sashes of each window to be hinged inwards on safety stays to facilitate cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane secondary glazing can be fitted on sash windows of any style, including traditional box sash secondary glazing and casement. The hinged units we offer are made with a secure multi-point locking system and can be supplied with keys lock handles. This ensures that the glazed panel is securely locked in place and is pulled tightly to the frame, forming a sealing to minimize heat loss. Hinged windows are available either side or top hung and are also available as double-glazed. Double-glazed windows provide better performance in terms of acoustics and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) or 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).
In contrast to horizontal sash windows which have movable sashes, slide horizontally within the frame, casement windows can be opened outwards and let in breezes from a variety of angles. They can also be opened from both the top and bottom to provide controlled ventilation. For this reason, they can increase airflow and are a viable alternative to traditional windows made of sash.
They are often employed in modern homes since they offer small "sightlines" and unobstructed views. However, they can also be fitted into listed properties due to the fact that they do not require transoms or mullions. They're also a good option for areas that are difficult to access because they can be opened with the flick of a handle.
This kind of window could be a disadvantage because it can restrict the use of certain window coverings. They can also be difficult to clean because they swing outward, and may require regular maintenance and service.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be put in place by a variety of methods. The cost of installation will vary depending on your choice of materials such as thickness, thickness and kind of glass. UPVC windows are generally the least expensive followed by aluminium and finally wooden window frames. Specialised glass, as well any additional features like security or sound reduction can also raise prices.
Another aspect that can affect the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complex the project, the more time and labor will be required. This is also true for heritage properties with more complex sash windows that require specialized knowledge and expertise.
Assessing the condition of windows that are in use is a good way to start. You can get an accurate estimate of the cost by having them checked by an expert.
In general secondary glazing has an insignificant impact on the look of your home. This is thanks to the fact that the modern FINEO double glazing has slim and discreet frame lines, which means you can achieve thermal efficiency without compromising on aesthetics.
The horizontal sliding secondary glazing is a popular choice because it permits easy access to the existing sash window for cleaning or ventilation. It is also possible to get them with a tilt function which you can activate by unlocking the catch on the secondary glass panel and lifting it vertically to a set point. This is a great option for windows that aren't opened very often. It can be used to provide air conditioning access to bay windows. It is also possible to use them to open up the middle sash of a traditional sash bay window to give a more symmetrical appearance.