Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are unable add new double glazing to their homes due to financial constraints or because they live in listed buildings which prohibit any exterior modifications.
Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative for sash window and can be installed several ways.
It's an additional pane of glass within the window frame, which prevents cold air from entering your home, as well as providing insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
There are many different styles of secondary glazing for sash windows. Each style comes with its own set of benefits ranging from increased security to less condensation. But which is the best option for you?
The principle behind secondary glazing is to incorporate an additional glass pane inside the window frame. This creates an extra layer of soundproofing and insulation, which can greatly increase the efficiency of your home's energy use.
It's not always practical to add double-glazed windows, particularly if you live in an listed property or if you are bound by strict planning regulations dictating what can and cannot be done with your exterior.
In these situations secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative that can be installed with relative ease. It's also a popular option for people looking to update their period property without the need to tear down the original windows with sash and replace them with modern ones.
There are many different options for secondary glazing sash windows, go to this site,, all of can be customized to fit the frame you have. Proprietary systems usually have painted aluminium frames which are designed to fit within the depth of a staff bead an existing sash window which means that sills and shutters can be kept.
They can be equipped with a variety of installation methods, including glazing clips and Velcro. These offer a more aesthetic solution than screw-fixed units, and are especially suited for windows that do not need to be opened often. You can also select an unfixed lift-out unit that can be easily removed and then reinstalled to open your windows.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most popular solution for improving existing windows with sash. They are also discreet and suitable for older homes, conservation areas & listed properties. In the majority of instances, they can be installed without access from outside because they operate by the inside.
They can be operated with a hand and can be left open or partially opened to allow ventilation. They are effective in keeping out draughts, and also filter harmful UV light. They can be used in combination with a flyscreen to ward off mosquitoes and other insects during the summer months.
Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the benefits of double glazing for your traditional window sash. It is comprised of PVC double sliding sash window track on all four sides of the cavity and a simple brush seal around each sheet of glass and finger pull angle handle to act as a hand and reduce bowing. It is available in kits with 1m or 2m of track and angle that can be stacked together to create larger spans.
The acoustic benefits of second glazing are important and can reduce noise from outside especially road, rail & airport traffic. The addition of laminated glass or toughened glasses improves the acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and special glass, like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can provide even more impressive levels of acoustic efficiency.
It can increase the energy efficiency of your house by keeping it warmer for longer. This will decrease the need for central heating. It is less expensive than replacing the original sash window, and can be installed without removing the frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective choice that is often easier to manage than full window replacement. It is suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great option for upgrading traditional windows with sash in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits while retaining the character of older homes.
Vertical Sliders are specially designed for sash windows where regular hinged panels don't work. The system has two secondary sashes that are secured one above the other inside an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances that allow for effortless 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 window's original reveal, to ensure optimal sound quality.
They can be equipped with a variety of stops and handles to accommodate the preferences of the homeowner, propping open either the top or bottom pane to let in air, or they can be placed in the closed position to provide security. They can also be fitted with an insulating bristle seal to stop drafts.
Imagine a vertical slider with 'Choices' secondary glazing comes with all the timber-like details you'd expect from a vintage window treatment and comes in an array of colours to match your existing sash. It's nearly impossible to distinguish from the original sash window, with details such as the sash's horns and traditional butt joints being incorporated into the design. It's available in a broad variety of sizes and can accept glass up to 6.8mm to provide additional insulation against heat loss. The tilt-in option permits the individual sashes of the window to be hinged inwards on safety stays for easier cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane hinged secondary glazing can be incorporated into windows made of sash in any style, including casement and traditional box sash. The hinged units we offer can be equipped with a keylock handle, and are manufactured with multi-point locking. This combination ensures that the glazed panel is securely locked in place and pulls tightly to the outer frame, creating a seal to reduce heat loss. Hinged windows are available as either side or top hung and can also be made as double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced acoustic performances and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) or 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).
Casement windows are able to open outwards and catch breezes at different angles. This is unlike the horizontal sash window that has movable sashes inside the frame that move horizontally. They can be opened from the top and bottom to allow controlled airflow. They also improve airflow, and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash windows.
They are typically 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 mullions or transoms. They're also a great choice for hard-to-reach areas since they can be opened by the flick of a handle.
This type of window can be a problem as it may limit the use of certain window coverings. They are difficult to clean as they swing outwards. They may also require regular maintenance and servicing.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be set up in a variety of ways and the cost will differ according to the type, thickness and the materials you select for your frame and panes. upvc double glazed sash windows frames are the most expensive, followed by aluminium and wooden sash windows frames. Specialised glass can also increase the cost and also any additional features such as security or noise reduction.
Another factor that will influence the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complicated the installation is, the more time and labor-intensive it will be. This is also true for heritage properties with more complex sash windows, which require expertise and knowledge.
Analyzing the condition of existing windows is a good place to begin. You can get a precise estimate of the cost by having them inspected by professionals.
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 lets you improve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.
A popular option for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which provides an easy access to your existing sash windows for cleaning or ventilation. These are also available with a tilt feature, which is activated by opening the catch and then lifting the secondary glazing panel vertically up to a certain degree. This is a great option for windows that aren't opened very often. It can also be used to permit air conditioning access in bay windows. It is also possible to use them to open up the middle sash on the traditional sash bay windows to create a more uniform look.