Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are unable build new double-glazed windows to their homes, either because of financial limitations or because they live in listed buildings which prohibit any exterior modifications.

Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative to sash windows. It can be put in various ways.

It is made up of an additional glass pane inside the window frame that prevents cold air from getting into your home, as well as offering insulation and noise reduction.

Fixed Inserts

There are a variety of styles of secondary glazing that are available for sash windows. Each style offers its own set of benefits ranging from increased security to less condensation. Which one is the best option for you?

The basic premise of secondary glazing is fitting an additional glass within the window frame. This provides an additional layer of insulation and noiseproofing to your home, enhancing its energy efficiency.

However it's not always feasible to add double-glazed windows for your home particularly if you live in a listed structure or are subject to strict planning regulations which dictate what can and cannot be done to your exterior.

Secondary glazing is a great alternative in these situations. It can be installed quite easily. It's also a popular option for those who want to modernize their period property without having to tear down the original windows with sash and replace them with modern ones.

There are a variety of different options available for secondary glazing sash windows - Ongoing -, all of can be customized to fit your frame. Proprietary systems typically have painted aluminium frames which are made to fit within the depth of a staff bead on an existing sash windows refurbishment window, which means that sills and shutters are still able to be used.

They can be fitted using a variety of installation methods that include glazing clips and Velcro. They provide a more attractive solution to screw-fixed units and are particularly suited to windows that do not need to be opened regularly. You can also opt for an adjustable 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 provide excellent thermal insulation and are the most popular option for enhancing existing sash windows. They are also extremely discreet and suitable for older structures, conservation areas and listed properties. They can be installed with the need for access from outside because they are operated from inside.

They are simple to operate with a hand and can be opened wide or left partially open to allow for ventilation. They are extremely effective in eliminating draughts and have the added benefit of removing 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 benefits of modern double glazing to your traditional sash windows. It is comprised of PVC double sliding track that runs across all four sides of cavity, a simple brush seal around each sheet of glass and finger pull angle handle to act as a hand, reducing bowing. It is available in kits of either 1m or 2m lengths of track and angle that can be joined to create larger spans.

Secondary glazing can have a significant impact on noise reduction, especially for road, rail and airport traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass further enhances acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing sash window glazing can reduce outside noise by 52dB(Rw) and specialist glass such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can provide even greater levels of acoustic performance.

It can boost the efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer for longer. This will reduce the need for central heating. It is much cheaper than replacing your original sash windows and is installed almost everywhere without the need to take out the existing window or door frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is a cost-effective option that is typically simpler to manage than a full window replacement. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's an excellent way to modernize traditional sash windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their originality.

Vertical Sliders are specially designed for sash windows, where regular hinged panels don't work. They feature two secondary sashes that are secured, one over the other, within an outer frame. They are supported by sturdy spring balances that allow for effortless movement. The system is available as a 'face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the existing window) to improve thermal efficiency or a'reveal-fixed version that comes with an air cavity for glass, within the original window reveal, for optimal acoustic performance.

They can be equipped with a variety stops and handles to suit the homeowner's preferences by allowing the top or bottom pane for ventilation or placed in a closed position for added security. They can also be fitted with an insulation bristle to stop draughts.

The 'Choices' Imagine vertical slider secondary glass has all the authentic wood detailing you'd expect in a period window treatment. It is available in a variety of colours that will match your existing sash. It's nearly impossible to distinguish from the original sash windows, since details like sash horns and traditional butt joints are included in the design. It's available in an extensive range of sizes and accepts glass up to 6.8mm to give additional insulation against heat loss. A tilt-in option is available allowing the individual sashes to hinge into the safety stays to help with cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane secondary glazing is able to be positioned on sash windows of any style, including traditional box sash and casement. The hinged units we offer can be 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 outer frame, forming a sealing to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows can be side-hung or top-hung, and they can also be double glazed sash windows for listed buildings-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced performance in terms of acoustics and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) and 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).

Casement windows are able to open to the outside and catch breezes from different angles. This is different from a the horizontal sash window, that has movable sashes inside the frame that move horizontally. They can also be opened from the top and bottom to offer controlled airflow. For this reason, they can help improve airflow and are a viable alternative to traditional sash windows.

They are popular in modern homes due to their small "sightlines" that allow for clear views, however they can also be incorporated in listed buildings since they don't require transoms or mullions. They are also a good option for those who live in areas that are difficult to reach since they can be opened by the flick of the handle.

The primary disadvantage of this type of window is that they can block large openings and limit the use of certain window treatments. They can also be difficult to clean as they open outwards, and could require regular maintenance and service.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be installed using a variety methods. The cost of installation will vary according to your selection of materials thickness, thickness, and the type of glass. uPVC frames are the least expensive followed by aluminium, and wooden frames. Specialized glass may also increase the cost, as well as any additional features like security or sound reduction.

Another aspect that can affect the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complicated the installation will take longer and require more labor it will require. This is also applicable to older properties with more complex sash window designs.

Assessing the condition of existing windows is a good way to start. A survey by an experienced professional will give you an accurate estimate of what the cost might be.

Generally speaking, secondary glass will have little impact on the overall appearance of your home. Modern FINEO double glazed sash window-glazing features thin and subtle frame lines. This lets you improve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.

A popular choice of secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which provides easy access to your existing sash windows to clean or ventilation. These windows also come with a tilt feature, that can be activated by opening the catch and lifting the secondary glazing panel vertically to a specified point. This is a great option 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 the middle sash in a traditional sash Bay Window to create a more symmetrical appearance.