Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are unable to build new double-glazed windows to their homes, either because of financial constraints or because they reside in listed buildings that prohibit any exterior modifications.
Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative for sash window and can be put in various ways.
It is made up of an additional pane of glass inside the existing window frame which stops cold air from getting into your home, as well as providing insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
If you're thinking of secondary glazing for your sash windows, there are many different styles you can pick from. Each style comes with each of its own benefits that range from increased security to less condensation. But which is the best choice for you?
The fundamental idea behind secondary glazing is to install an extra pane of glass inside the window frame. This adds a layer of insulation and noiseproofing to your home, enhancing its energy efficiency.
However it's not always possible to install new double-glazed windows to your home, especially if you live in a listed structure or are subject to strict regulations regarding planning which dictate what can and can't be done to your exterior.
Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative in these situations. It can be installed relatively easily. It's a popular choice for those who want to update their period home without having to replace the original sash window a modern one.
There are several different systems for secondary glazing on sash windows. Each can be customized to fit the frame you already have. Proprietary systems are generally made of painted aluminium frames that fit into the existing bead depth on a sash window. This allows sills and shutters to remain.
These can be fitted with a variety of installation methods, such as glazing clips or Velcro. These offer a more aesthetic solution to screw-fixed units and are ideally suited to windows that don't need to be opened regularly. You can also select a fixed lift-out device that can be easily lifted out and then reinstalled to open your windows.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal sliders are the most popular method of enhancing the appearance of a sash window. They are also discrete and are ideal for historic homes as well as conservation areas and listed property. They can be installed with the need for external access since they operate from inside.
They can be operated by hand and can be left open or partially closed for ventilation. They are very effective at getting rid of draughts, and they also have the benefit of filtering out harmful UV light. They can be combined with an insect screen to deter mosquitoes and other insects during summer months.
Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems provide all the advantages of double glazing for your traditional sash window. It is comprised of PVC double sliding track that runs across all four sides of cavity and a simple brush seal around each glass sheet and finger pull angle handle to function as a hand, reducing 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 it can significantly enhance noise reduction from outside especially road, rail & airport traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass further enhances the acoustic quality. Standard secondary glazing reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and specialist glass, like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can provide higher levels of acoustic performance.
It can increase the energy efficiency of your home by keeping your house warmer for longer and reducing reliance on central heating. It is less expensive than replacing your original sash windows and is installed in most cases without the need to remove the window or door 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 the ideal option to replace windows with sash in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits, while maintaining the charm of older homes.
Vertical Sliders were designed for sash window applications where regular hinged panels are not suitable. They feature two secondary sashes which are secured with one over the other, within an outer frame. They are supported by robust spring balances to allow for easy movement. The system can be installed on the inside of an existing window for better thermal performance, or it can be equipped with an opening between the glass and the frame for optimum 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 top or bottom pane to let in air or secured in an open position for additional security. They can also be fitted with an insulating seal bristle to prevent draughts.
Imagine vertical sliders in 'Choices' secondary glazing comes with all the timber-like details you'd expect from a vintage window treatment. It's also available in a variety of colors to match your existing sash. It is almost impossible to distinguish from the original sash windows, since details such as sash horns and traditional joints are included in the design. It comes in a variety of sizes and can be fitted with glass up to 6.8mm to provide 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 glazing can be fitted to windows in sash of any design including traditional and casement sash. The hinged units we offer can be equipped with a keylock handle and are made with multi-point locking. This combination ensures the glazed panel is locked securely in place and is pulled tight to the outer frame, forming a seal to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows can be purchased as either top or side hung and can also be made as double-glazed. Double-glazed windows are a great way to improve audio-acoustic performance. They are available in 43dB, 47dB or 51dB.
Casement windows are able to open outwards and catch breezes at various angles. This is unlike the horizontal sash window with movable sashes in the frame, which slide horizontally. They can be opened both from the top and bottom for controlled ventilation. Because of this, they can increase airflow and offer an effective alternative to traditional sash windows.
They are popular in modern homes due to their slim "sightlines" that permit unobstructed view, but they can also be incorporated in listed buildings since they do not require transoms or mullions. They can also be used in areas that are difficult to access since they can be opened by turning a handle.
The primary disadvantage of this type of window is that it could block large openings and limit the use of certain window treatments. They are difficult to clean since they can swing outwards. They may also require regular maintenance and servicing.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be installed using a variety methods. The cost will differ according to your choice of materials such as thickness, thickness and type of glass. UPVC windows are typically the most affordable followed by aluminium, and then wooden window frames. Specialised glass, as well any other features such as security or sound reduction can also increase prices.
double glazed sash windows wood that can affect the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complicated the project, the more time and labour will be required. This is also true for heritage properties with more intricate design of sash windows.
The best place to begin is to assess the condition of your existing windows. You can get a reliable estimate of the cost by having them inspected by professionals.
In general secondary glazing can have an insignificant impact on the look of your home. This is due to the fact that the modern FINEO double glazing has sleek and subtle frame lines, which means you can attain thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.
A popular option for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which gives an easy access to your existing sash windows for cleaning or ventilation. They can also be purchased with a tilt function, which you can activate by releasing the catch on your secondary glazing panel and then lifting it vertically until you reach a predetermined point. This is ideal for windows that don't open often and is a great way to facilitate access for air conditioning in bay windows. It is also possible to use them to open the middle sash on a traditional sash bay window to give a more symmetrical appearance.