Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are unable build new double-glazed windows to their homes due to financial limitations or because they reside in listed buildings that restrict any exterior changes.
Secondary glazing is a great alternative to sash windows and can be put in various ways.
It consists of an extra pane of glass inside the window frame, which prevents cold air from entering your home, as well as providing insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
There are a variety of styles of secondary glazing available for sash windows. Each comes with its own number of advantages, ranging from increased security to lower condensation. Which is the best choice for you?
The basic idea behind secondary glazing is to install an additional glass within the frame of your existing window. This adds an additional layer of soundproofing and insulation, which can dramatically improve your home's energy efficiency.
It's not always possible to add double-glazed windows, especially if your home is an listed property or you are bound by strict planning regulations dictating what can and can't be done with your exterior.
In these situations, secondary glazing is a great alternative that can be put in with ease. It's a popular option for those who want to modernize their home without the need to replace the original sash window an updated version.
There are a variety of different options available for secondary glazing sash windows, all of can be customized to fit your frame. Proprietary systems are generally comprised of painted aluminum frames that fit into the existing staff bead depth on a sash window. This allows shutters and sills to be kept.
They can be fitted with a variety of installation methods, such as glazing clips or Velcro. They offer a more stylish solution than screw-fixed units, and are especially suited for windows that do not need to be opened often. Alternately, you can choose a fixed lift-out unit that can be lifted out and then put back in its place with ease to allow windows to be opened.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most well-known solution for improving existing windows made of sash. They are also very discrete and are ideal for historic structures, conservation areas and listed properties. In the majority of cases, they can be installed without external access because they operate by the inside.
They can be operated by hand and can be left open or partially opened for ventilation. They are very effective at getting rid of draughts, and offer the added 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 systems offer all the advantages of modern double glazing to your original windows made of sash. It consists of PVC double sliding track on all four sides of the cavity and a simple brush seal around each sheet of glass and a finger pull angle handle to act as a hand and decrease bowing. It comes in kits of 1m or 2m track and angle that can be stacked together to create larger spans.
Secondary glazing can have a significant impact on noise reduction, particularly for road, rail and 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 performance.
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 existing frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective choice that is usually simpler to manage than a full 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 charm of older homes.
Vertical Sliders are specifically designed for sash windows where regular hinged panels aren't appropriate. The system features two secondary sashes, which 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 put on the inside of an existing window for greater thermal efficiency, or it can be equipped with an opening between the glass and the frame to maximize acoustic properties.
You can choose from a variety of stop-strips and handles to meet your needs. They can be fixed in the closed position for additional security or propped open for ventilation on the glass's top or bottom. They can be equipped with an insulating seal bristle to prevent draughts.
The 'Choices' Imagine vertical slider secondary glass features all the authentic wood detailing you'd expect to see in a period window treatment. It is available in a variety of colours that are compatible with your sash. It's almost impossible to tell apart from the original sash window, with details such as the sash's horns and traditional butt joints included in the design. It comes in a variety of sizes and can accept glass up to 6.8mm for additional insulation against loss of heat. The tilt-in option permits the individual sashes of the window to be hinged inwards to make it easier for cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane secondary glass can be installed on sash windows in any style, including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units are supplied with a keylock handle, and are constructed with multi-point locking. This ensures that the glazed panel is locked in place and pulls tightly to the frame, forming a sealing to reduce loss of heat. Hinged windows can be top-hung or side-hung and can be double-glazed. Our double-glazed windows provide enhanced acoustic performance and are available in 43dB, 47dB or 51dB.
Casement windows are able to open up and let in breezes at different angles. This is in contrast to a horizontal sash window, which has movable sashes within the frame that move horizontally. They can be opened both from the top and bottom to allow controlled ventilation. They are therefore able to increase airflow and are a great alternative to traditional sash windows.
They are typically utilized in modern homes as they offer small "sightlines" and unobstructed views. They can also be fitted into listed properties due to the fact that they don't require mullions or transoms. They can also be utilized in areas that are difficult to access since they can be opened by turning a handle.
This kind of window can be a drawback since it may limit the use of certain window coverings. They can also be difficult to clean as they open outwards, and could require regular maintenance and servicing.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be installed in a variety of ways and the price will vary according to the thickness, type and the materials you select for your frames and panes. UPVC windows are generally the most affordable followed by aluminium and then wooden window frames. Specialized glass can also add to the price, as well as any additional features like security or sound reduction.
The complexity of the installation will impact the cost. sash window restoration complicated the installation is, the more time and labour will be required. This also applies to heritage properties with more intricate sash windows that require specialized knowledge and expertise.
The best place to begin is to assess the condition of your current windows. A survey by an experienced professional will give you a precise idea of what the costs might be.
Generally speaking, secondary glass will have minimal impact on the overall look of your home. This is due to the fact that modern FINEO double glazing is slim and discrete frames, meaning you can attain 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. It is also possible to get them with a tilt feature, which you can activate by unlocking the catch on your secondary glazing panel and then lifting it vertically until you reach a predetermined point. This is a great option for windows that don't get opened very often. It can be used to provide air conditioning access to bay windows. It is also possible to make use of them to open the middle sash of the traditional sash bay windows to create a more symmetrical look.