Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are unable add double glazing to their home, either due to financial constraints or because the structure is listed and modifications to the exterior are not permitted.

Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative to sash windows. It can be installed several ways.

This is a double-paned, insulated glass that fits into your existing window frame. It provides insulation and noise reduction, as well as stopping cold air from entering your home.

Fixed Inserts

There are many different types of secondary glazing for sash windows. Each has its own set of benefits, from improved security to reduced condensation. But which is the best option for you?

The basic idea behind secondary glazing is to install an additional glass into your existing window frame. This adds a layer of insulation and noiseproofing to your home, improving its energy efficiency.

It's not always practical to install double-glazed windows particularly if you live in classified as a historic property or you are bound by strict planning regulations that dictate what can and can't be done with your exterior.

Secondary glazing is a great alternative in these instances. It can be set up fairly easily. It's also a popular option for those looking to upgrade their home without having to tear down the original windows with sash and replace them with modern ones.

There are a number of different systems available for secondary glazing sash windows, each of that can be adapted to fit your existing frame. Proprietary systems typically have painted aluminium frames which are designed to fit within the depth of a staff bead on an existing sash window, which means that sills and shutters can be kept.

They can be installed with a variety of mounting methods such as glazing clips and Velcro. These types of units look more attractive than screw-fixed ones and are ideally suited to windows that do not require to be opened often. Alternatively, you can choose a fixed lift-out unit, which can be lifted out and then put back in place with relative ease to allow windows to be opened.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal sliders are the most sought-after method to enhance the appearance of your windows with sash. They are also very discreet and ideal for historic buildings, conservation areas & listed properties. They can be installed with the need for access from outside since they operate from inside.

They are simple to operate by hand and can be opened wide or left partially open to allow for ventilation. They are effective at keeping out draughts, and also block harmful UV light. In summer, they can be used with a flyscreen to keep insects out and mosquitoes.

Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system offers all the benefits of modern double glazing to your traditional sash windows. It comprises of pvc sash windows double sliding tracks that run across all four sides of the cavity, an easy bristle seal around each glass sheet, and finger pull angle handles to act as a handle and lessen bowing. It is available in kits of 1m or 2m of track and angle that can be put together to create larger spans.

The acoustic benefits of second glazing are significant and it can significantly enhance noise reduction from outside, particularly road, rail & airport traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass further enhances acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing can reduce outside noise to 52dB(Rw) and specialized glass like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can achieve even higher levels of acoustic performances.

It can increase the efficiency of your house by keeping it warmer longer. This will reduce the need for central heating. It is less expensive than replacing your original sash secondary glazing windows and is installed in most cases without the need to take out the existing window or door 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 a great way to upgrade traditional sash Windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their originality.

Vertical Sliders are designed especially for sash windows where regular hinged panels don't work. The system has two secondary sashes that are fixed one above one within an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances to allow for ease of movement. The system can be placed on the inside of a window to provide greater thermal efficiency or fitted with a cavity between the frame and the glass to maximize acoustic properties.

They can be fitted with a variety of stops and handles to meet the needs of the homeowner and can be used to prop open the top or bottom pane for ventilation, or they can be secured in the closed position to provide security. They can also be fitted with an insulation bristle to stop draughts.

The 'Choices' vertical slider secondary glass features the same authentic wood details you'd expect in a period window treatment. It is available in a variety of colors that match your existing sash. It's nearly impossible to distinguish from the original sash windows as details such as sash horns as well as traditional butt joints are incorporated into the design. It's available in a broad selection of sizes and will accept glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to prevent loss of heat. A tilt-in option is also available to allow the individual sashes of the frame to hinge inward on safety stays to help with cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane secondary glazing is able to be positioned on sash windows of any design, including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units are equipped with a keylock handle and are manufactured with multi-point locking. This combination ensures the glazed panel is held securely in place and pulls tight to the outer frame, forming a seal to reduce heat loss. Hinged windows can be side-hung or top-hung and can be double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced audio-acoustic performance. They are available in 43dB,47dB or 51dB.

Unlike horizontal flush sash windows windows, which have movable sashes, slide horizontally within the frame, casement windows can be opened outwards and catch breezes from various angles. They can be opened both from the top and bottom for controlled ventilation. They also increase airflow and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash window.

They are popular in modern homes due to their narrow "sightlines" which allow for clear views, however they can also be put in listed buildings since they don't require mullions and transoms. They're also a great choice for hard-to-reach areas as they can be opened by the twist of a handle.

The primary drawback to this kind of window is that it can block off large openings, and could limit the use of certain window treatments. They are also difficult to clean as they swing outward and could require regular maintenance and servicing.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be put in place by a variety of methods. The cost will vary according to the selection of materials, thickness, and kind of glass. UPVC frames are the cheapest expensive followed by aluminium, and then wooden sash windows near me frames. Specialised glass, along with any extra features such as security or sound reduction can also raise prices.

The complexity of the installation will affect the cost. The more complicated the project, the more time and labour will be required. This is also applicable to older properties with more intricate design of sash windows.

The best way to start is to assess the condition of your existing windows. You can get a precise estimate of the cost by having them inspected by an expert.

In general secondary glazing can have little effect on the appearance of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing features thin and discrete frame lines. This lets you improve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.

A very popular choice for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which gives easy access to existing sash windows to clean or ventilation. You can also get them with a tilt function, which is activated by unlocking the catch on your secondary glazing panel and lifting it vertically to a preset point. This is perfect for windows that don't get opened often. It can also be used to permit air conditioning access to bay windows. It is also possible to use them to open up the middle sash on a traditional sash bay window to create a more uniform look.