Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners aren't able to install double glazed sash windows glazing to their homes, either due to financial constraints or because the structure is listed and any exterior modifications are prohibited.
Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative to sash windows. It can be installed several ways.
It's an additional pane of glass inside the existing window frame which stops cold air from entering your home, while also providing insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
There are a variety of styles of secondary glazing that are available for Sash windows. Each comes with its own set of benefits, from increased security to less condensation. But which is the best option for you?
The basic idea behind secondary glazing is to incorporate an additional glass inside the window frame. This provides an additional 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 sash windows-glazed windows, especially if your home is an listed property or you are governed by strict planning regulations that dictate what can and cannot be done to your exterior.
Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative in these circumstances. It can be put in relatively easily. It's a popular option for those looking to renovate their old home without having to replace the original sash window with a modern one.
There are a number of different options for secondary glazing sash windows, each one of which is configurable to suit the frame you have. Proprietary systems are generally made of painted aluminum frames that fit into the existing depth of the staff bead on the sash window. This lets shutters and sills be retained.
They can be equipped with a variety of installation methods, like glazing clips or Velcro. These units are more attractive than screw-fixed ones and are best suited for windows that how much do wooden sash windows cost not need to be opened frequently. Alternatively, you can opt for a fixed lift-out unit, which can be lifted out and then put back in place with relative ease to allow windows to be opened.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most popular solution for improving existing sash windows. They are also very discrete and are ideal for historic buildings, conservation areas, and listed properties. They can be installed with the need for external access as they are operated from inside.
They are simple to operate using a hand, and can be open wide or left partially open to allow for ventilation. They are effective at preventing draughts, and they also block harmful UV light. They can be combined with a flyscreen to ward off mosquitoes and other insects during the summer months.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the advantages of modern double glazing to your traditional new sash windows windows. It is comprised of PVC double sliding tracks on all four sides of the cavity, an easy bristle seal around each glass sheet, and finger pull angle handles to act as a handle and reduce bowing. It comes in kits of 1m or 2m track and angle that can be put together to create larger spans.
The acoustic advantages of secondary glazing are significant and can dramatically reduce noise from outside, particularly the airport, rail and road traffic. The use of laminated glass or toughened glasses further improves the acoustic performance. Secondary glazing that is standard reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and specialist glass, like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can provide higher levels of acoustic efficiency.
It can increase the energy efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer for longer and decreasing dependence on central heating. It is less expensive than replacing the original sash window, and can be installed without the need to remove the existing frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective alternative that is usually more manageable than a complete window replacement. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great option to upgrade windows made of sash in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits while retaining the character of older homes.
Vertical Sliders were developed for use in sash windows where regular hinged panels would not be suitable. They feature two secondary sashes that are secured, one above the other, inside an outer frame and are supported by sturdy spring balances that allow for effortless movement. The system can be placed on the inside of an existing window for more efficient thermal performance, or it can be fitted with an opening between the frame and the glass to maximize acoustic properties.
They can be fitted with a variety of handles and stop strips to suit the homeowner's preferences and can be used to prop open the bottom or top pane for ventilation or secured in an open position for additional security. They can be fitted with an insulation bristle to stop drafts.
'Choices' Imagine vertical slider secondary glazing comes with all the authentic timber detailing you'd expect from a vintage window treatment and comes in an array of colours to match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to distinguish from the original sash window, with details such as the sash's horns and traditional butt joints incorporated into the design. It's available in a wide range of sizes and accepts glass up to 6.8mm to give additional insulation against heat loss. A tilt-in option is available that allows the sashes to be hinged towards the back of safety stays to help with cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane hinged secondary glass can be fitted to sash window locks windows of any style such as casement and traditional box sash. Our hinged units are manufactured with a secure multi-point locking system and can be supplied with keys and a handle for the lock. This ensures that the glass panel is securely locked in place and pulls tightly to the outer frame, forming a sealing to reduce heat loss. Hinged windows are available as either top or side-hung and can also be constructed by double-glazing. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced acoustic performances and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) and 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).
Unlike horizontal sash windows, which have movable sashes, slide horizontally within the frame, casement windows can open outwards and catch breezes from different angles. They can be opened from the top and bottom to allow controlled airflow. They also increase airflow and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash windows.
They are commonly used in modern homes due to their slim "sightlines" which allow for unobstructed view, but they can also be installed in listed buildings since they don't require mullions and transoms. They're also a great choice for hard-to-reach areas since they can be opened with the twist of the handle.
The main drawback of this kind of window is that they can block off large openings, and could limit the use of certain window treatments. They are also difficult to clean as they swing outward and could require regular maintenance and service.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be put in place using a variety of ways. The cost will vary according to your preference of the materials, thickness, and type of glass. Upvc frames are the most expensive followed by aluminium, and wooden frames. Specialised glass, along with any extra features such as security or sound reduction could increase the cost of windows.
The complexity of the installation will influence the cost. The more complicated the project will take longer and more labour will be required. This is also true for historic properties with more intricate sash windows that require specialized knowledge and expertise.
A good place to start is to evaluate the condition of your current windows. You can get an accurate estimate of the cost by having them inspected by professionals.
In general, secondary glazing has little effect on the look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing has slim and distinct frame lines. This allows you to improve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.
The horizontal sliding secondary glazing option is popular due to its easy access to the existing sash window for cleaning or ventilation. They also come with a tilt feature which can be activated by unlocking the catch and raising your secondary glazing panel vertically up to a certain point. This is ideal for windows that don't get frequently opened. It can be used to provide air conditioning access in bay windows. You can also use them to open up the middle sash on the traditional sash bay windows to create a more symmetrical look.