Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are not able to install new double glazing on their homes, either because of financial limitations or because they reside in listed buildings which prohibit any modifications to the exterior.
Secondary glazing for windows with sash is a great alternative that can be put in using a variety of methods.
It’s an additional glass pane inside the existing window frame which blocks cold air from getting into your home, while also offering insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
There are a variety of styles of secondary glazing available for sash windows. Each comes with its own set of benefits, from increased security to less condensation. But which is the best option for you?
The principle behind secondary glazing is to install an extra pane of glass inside the window frame. This creates an extra layer of soundproofing and insulation which can greatly improve the energy efficiency of your home.
It’s not always possible to install double-glazed windows particularly if you live in classified as a historic property or you are bound by strict planning regulations dictating what can and can’t be done with your exterior.
Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative in these circumstances. It can be installed quite easily. It’s also a popular option for people looking to update their home without the need to tear down the original sash windows and replace them with contemporary ones.
There are many different options for secondary glazing sash windows, each of which is configurable to suit your existing frame. Proprietary systems are usually constructed of painted aluminium frames that fit into the existing staff bead depth on the sash window. This lets shutters and sills be kept.
These can be fitted with different installation methods like glazing clips or Velcro. These offer a more aesthetic solution to screw-fixed units and are ideally suited to windows that aren’t required to be opened regularly. You can also opt for an unfixed lift-out unit that can be easily removed and reinstalled to allow you to open your windows.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal sliders are the most well-known method to enhance the appearance of your sash window repairs near me window. They are also very discreet and suitable for older buildings, conservation areas & listed properties. They can be installed in most cases without the need for access from outside because they are operated from inside.
They are easy to operate by hand and can be open wide or left partially open to allow for ventilation. They are extremely effective in getting rid of draughts, and have the added benefit of filtering out harmful UV light. They can be used in combination with a flyscreen to ward off mosquitoes and other insects during summer months.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the benefits of modern double glazing for your classic Sash windows. It consists of PVC double sliding track on all four sides of the cavity, a simple brush seal around each glass sheet and finger pull angle handle to function as a hand and decrease bowing. It is available in kits of 1m or 2m lengths of track and angle which can be butted together to create larger spans.
Secondary glazing can have a significant impact on noise reduction, specifically for road, rail and airport traffic. The inclusion of laminated glass or toughened glasses further improves the acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing can reduce outside noise to 52dB(Rw), and specialist glass like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can deliver even higher levels of acoustic performance.
It can improve the energy efficiency of your house by keeping it warm for longer. This will decrease the need for central heating. It is much cheaper than replacing your sash windows and is installed almost everywhere without the need to take out the window or door frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective option that is often more manageable than a complete 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 were designed for sash window applications where hinged panels of the regular kind are not suitable. They feature two secondary glazing sash windows sashes which are secured to one sash above the other, within an outer frame. They are supported by sturdy spring balances that allow for effortless movement. The system can be purchased as a ‘face-fixed’ (installed to the inside of the window) for increased thermal efficiency or a’reveal-fixed’ version which has an air cavity for glass inside the window reveal, for optimal acoustic performance.
You can pick from a variety of stop-strips and handles to match your preferences. They can be put in a closed position for extra security or propped open for ventilation on the top or bottom glass. They can also be fitted with an insulation bristle to block draughts.
The ‘Choices’ vertical slider secondary glass features all the authentic wood detailing you’d expect to see in a window covering from the past. It comes in a variety of colours that are compatible with your sash. It’s nearly impossible to distinguish from original sash windows, since features like sash horns and traditional joints are integrated into the design. It comes in a variety of sizes and can be fitted with glass up to 6.8mm to provide additional insulation against loss of heat. The tilt-in feature allows the sashes of each window to be hinged upwards on safety stays to facilitate cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane secondary glass can be positioned on sash windows in any style, including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units are supplied with a keylock handle and are made with multi-point locking. This combination ensures the glass panel is secured securely in place and is pulled close to the frame, forming a seal to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows can be purchased as either side or top hung and can also be made by double-glazing. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced sound insulation and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) and 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).
Contrary to horizontal sash windows which have movable sashes that slide horizontally within the frame, casement windows are able to open outwards and let in breezes from a variety of angles. They can be opened both from the top and bottom for controlled airflow. They also 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 used in listed properties because they don’t require mullions or transoms. They can also be used in areas that are difficult to access since they can be opened simply by turning the handle.
The primary disadvantage of this kind of window is that it could block large openings, and could limit the use of certain window treatments. They can be difficult to clean, as they open outwards. They could also require regular maintenance and servicing.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be put in place using a variety methods. The cost of installation will vary according to your preference of the materials such as thickness, thickness and kind of glass. Upvc frames are the most expensive, followed by aluminium and then wooden sash window frames. Specialised glass, along with any additional features like security or sound reduction could also raise prices.
The complexity of the installation will also influence the cost. The more complex the project is, the more time and labour will be required. This is also true for heritage properties that have more intricate design of sash windows.
Analyzing the condition of windows in use is a good place to start. The survey conducted by an experienced professional will give you an accurate estimate of what the price could be.
In general, secondary glazing will have a minimal impact on the overall look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing is thin and subtle frame lines. This lets you get the most efficient heat without compromising aesthetics.
A popular option for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which allows easy access to existing sash windows to clean or ventilation. These windows also come with a tilt function, which can be activated by unlocking the catch and then lifting the secondary glazing panel vertically up to a certain level. This is a great option for windows that aren’t used often and can be used to allow access to air conditioning in bay windows. They can be used to open the middle sash in a traditional sash Bay Window to create a symmetrical appearance.