Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are unable add new double glazing to their homes, either because of financial limitations or because they reside in listed buildings that restrict any exterior modifications.
Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative to sash windows. It can be put in various ways.
This product is a double-paned glass that fits inside your existing window frame. It is insulated and provides noise reduction, while stopping cold air from entering the home.
Fixed Inserts
If you're thinking about secondary glazing for your sash windows there are a variety of styles to choose from. Each style comes with each of its own benefits ranging from increased security to reduced condensation. Which is the best choice for you?
The principle behind secondary glazing is to incorporate an additional glass within the frame of your existing window. This adds an additional layer of soundproofing and insulation which can greatly improve the energy efficiency of your home.
However it's not always feasible to add new double-glazed windows to your home, especially if you live in a listed building or are subject to strict planning regulations that dictate what can and can't be done to your exterior.
In these situations, secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative that can be installed easily. It's also a popular option for people looking to update their home without the need to tear down the original
sash window refurbishment windows and replace them with new ones.
There are a number of different options available for
secondary glazing sash windows, each one of which is configurable to suit your frame. The proprietary systems are typically constructed of painted aluminium frames that fit into the existing staff bead depth on the sash window. This allows sills and shutters to remain.
They can be fitted using a variety of installation methods, including glazing clips and Velcro. They offer a more stylish solution than screw-fixed units, and are ideally suited to windows that do not need to be opened regularly. Alternately, you can opt for a fixed lift-out unit that can be lifted out and then 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 made of
mock sash upvc windows. They are also very discreet and are ideal for historic buildings, conservation areas & listed properties. They can be installed in most cases without the need for external access because they are operated from inside.
They can be operated with a hand and can be left open or partially opened to allow ventilation. They are extremely effective in getting rid of draughts, and they also have the benefit of filtering out harmful UV light. In summer they can be utilized with a flyscreen to keep out insects and mosquitoes.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system provides all the benefits of modern double glazing to your traditional sash windows. It comprises of PVC double sliding tracks on the four sides of the cavity with a simple bristle seal around each glass sheet and finger pull angle handles that serve as handles and reduce bowing. It is available in kits of either 1m or 2m lengths of track and an angle, which can be joined to create larger spans.
The acoustic advantages of secondary glazing are extremely significant and can dramatically reduce noise from outside especially road, rail & airport traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass further enhances the acoustic quality. Standard secondary glazing can reduce outside noise to 52dB(Rw) and specialist glass such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can achieve even higher levels of acoustic performances.
It can improve the energy efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer for longer and reducing reliance on central heating. It is less expensive than replacing the original sash window, and can be installed without having to remove the frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective option that is usually less expensive than full window replacement. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's the ideal option for upgrading traditional windows with sash in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits while keeping the charm of older homes.
Vertical Sliders were designed to be used in sash window applications in which hinged panels from the standard range would not be suitable. The system is comprised of two secondary sashes that are secured one over the other within an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances, allowing for effortless movement. The system can be installed on the inside of an existing window for more efficient thermal performance, or it can be fitted with a cavity between the glass and the frame for optimum acoustic properties.
They can be fitted with a variety of stops and handles to meet the needs of the homeowner, propping open either the top or bottom pane to allow for ventilation, or they can be secured in the closed position to provide security. They can also be equipped with an insulating bristle seal that can prevent drafts.
The 'Choices' vertical slider secondary glass features the same authentic wood details you'd expect to see in a period window. It comes in a range of colors that will match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to tell apart from the original sash window with features like sash horns & traditional butt joints included in the design. It's available in a wide variety of sizes and can accept glass up to 6.8mm to give additional insulation against heat loss. A tilt-in option is available allowing the individual sashes of the frame to hinge inward on safety stays to aid in cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane secondary glazing can be fitted on
sash secondary glazing windows in any design, including traditional box sash and casement. The hinged units we offer are made with secure multi-point locking and can be supplied with a key lock handle. This combination ensures the glass panel is secured securely in place and is pulled tightly against the frame creating a seal designed to minimize heat loss. Hinged windows can be top-hung or side-hung, and they can also be double-glazed. Double-glazed windows are a great way to improve acoustic performance and are available in 43dB,47dB or 51dB.
Casement windows are able open to the outside and catch breezes at different angles. This is in contrast to a 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. This is why they can improve airflow and provide an effective alternative to traditional windows with sash.
They are commonly employed in modern homes since they have small "sightlines" and unobstructed views. They can also be used in listed properties because they do not require transoms or mullions. They can also be utilized in areas that are difficult to access since they are easily opened by turning a handle.
The primary disadvantage of this kind of window is that it could block off large openings and limit the use of certain window treatments. They are difficult to clean as they swing outward. They may also require regular maintenance and servicing.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be installed by a variety of methods. The cost will vary according to the preference of the materials, thickness, and kind of glass. uPVC windows are usually the least expensive followed by aluminium, and finally wooden window frames. Specialised glass, along with any additional features like security or sound reduction may increase the cost of windows.
The complexity of the installation will influence the cost. The more complicated the installation, the more time and labour will be required. This can also apply to older homes with more intricate sash windows that require specialist knowledge and expertise.
The best place to begin is to evaluate the condition of your current windows. You can get a reliable estimate of the cost by having them inspected by professionals.
Generally speaking, secondary glass will have minimal impact on the overall appearance of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing is thin and discrete frame lines. This allows you to improve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.
The horizontal sliding secondary glazing is popular due to its easy access to the existing sash window for cleaning or ventilation. They also come with a tilt feature which is activated by releasing the catch and then lifting your secondary glazing panel vertically to a specified point. This is ideal for windows that aren't opened often. It can be used to provide air conditioning access in bay windows. You can also use them to open the middle sash in a traditional sash Bay Window to create a symmetrical appearance.