Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are not able to install new double glazing on their homes, either because of financial constraints or because they reside in listed buildings that restrict any exterior changes.

Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative for sash window and can be put in various ways.

This is a double-paned window that fits into your existing window frame. It provides insulation and noise reduction, in addition to stopping cold air from entering the home.

Fixed Inserts

If you're thinking of secondary glazing for your sash windows there are several different styles to choose from. Each style comes with distinct advantages including increased security and less condensation. Which is the best choice for you?

The fundamental idea behind secondary glazing is to install an additional glass pane within the window frame. This adds an additional 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 that dictate what can and cannot be done to your exterior.

In these situations, secondary glazing is an excellent alternative that can be put in with relative ease. It's a popular choice for those who want to renovate their old home without the need to replace the original sash window with a modern one.

There are a variety of different options available for secondary glazing sash windows, each of which is configurable to suit your frame. Proprietary systems are generally comprised of painted aluminum frames that fit the existing staff bead depth on the sash window. This allows shutters and sills to remain.

These can be fitted with a variety of installation methods, like glazing clips or Velcro. These units are more attractive than screw-fixed ones and are best suited for windows that do not require to be opened frequently. You can also opt for an unfixed lift-out unit that can be easily removed and reinstalled to open your windows.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most popular option for enhancing existing sash windows. They are also extremely discreet and ideal for historic structures, conservation areas and listed properties. They can be fitted with the need for access from outside because they are operated from inside.

They can be operated by hand and can be left open or partially opened for ventilation. They are effective in stopping draughts and also filter harmful UV light. They can be used in conjunction with a flyscreen to keep out mosquitoes and other insects during summer months.

Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the benefits of modern double glazing to your traditional Sash windows. It is comprised of pvc sash windows double sliding tracks that run across all four sides of the cavity and an easy bristle seal around each glass sheet and angle handles that can be pulled by fingers to serve as handles and lessen bowing. It is available in kits with 1m or 2m of track and angle that can be put together to create larger spans.

The acoustic benefits of secondary glazing are extremely important and can reduce noise from outside especially railway, road and airport traffic. The addition of laminated glass or toughened glasses further improves the acoustic performance. Secondary glazing that is standard reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and specialist glass, such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass, can achieve even higher levels of acoustic performance.

It can improve the efficiency of your house by keeping it warmer for longer. This can reduce the need for central heating. It is less expensive than replacing your old sash windows and is installed 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 sash windows and is perfectly suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's an excellent way to improve the look of traditional sash windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their character.

Vertical Sliders were designed for use in sash windows where hinged panels of the regular kind aren't suitable. The system features two secondary sashes, which are secured one over the other within an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances to allow for easy movement. The system is available as a 'face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the existing window) for increased thermal performance, or a'reveal fixed' version which has a glass-to-glass cavity inside the window reveal, for optimal sound quality.

You can pick from a variety of stop-strips and handles to suit your preferences. They can be positioned in the closed position for additional security or propped open for ventilation on the top or bottom glass. They can also be fitted with an insulating seal bristle to prevent draughts.

The 'Choices' Imagine vertical slider secondary glass comes with the same authentic wood details you'd expect to see in a period window. It is available in a variety of colors that will match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to distinguish from original sash windows, since details such as sash double glazing horns and traditional joints are included in the design. It is available in various sizes and can take glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to heat loss. The tilt-in option allows the individual sashes of the window to be hinged inwards to make it easier for cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane secondary glazing can be positioned on sash windows in any style including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units are equipped with a keylock handle and are made with multi-point locking. This combination ensures that the glazed panel is secured and is pulled tightly against the frame, creating a seal to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows are available either side or top hung and can also be made with double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced sound insulation and are available in 43dB,47dB or 51dB.

Casement windows are able to open outwards and catch breezes from different angles. This is unlike horizontal sash window, with movable sashes in the frame that slide horizontally. They can also be opened from the top and bottom to provide controlled ventilation. They also increase airflow and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash windows.

They are commonly used in modern homes due to their small "sightlines" that permit unobstructed view, but they can also be installed into listed properties because they don't require transoms and mullions. They're also a good option for areas that are difficult to access since they can be opened by the turn of a handle.

The primary drawback to this type of window is that it can block large openings and may restrict the use of certain window treatments. They can be difficult to clean, as they open outwards. They also may require regular maintenance and servicing.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be installed by a variety of methods. The cost will vary according to the selection of materials such as thickness, thickness and type of glass. uPVC frames are the least expensive, followed by aluminium and then wooden frames. Specialised glass, along with any additional features like security or sound reduction can also increase prices.

The complexity of the installation will impact the cost. The more complex the project, the longer and more labor-intensive it will be. This is also true for heritage properties with more complex sash windows that require expertise and knowledge.

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

In general, secondary glazing will have minimal impact on the overall look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing is thin and discrete frame lines. This lets you improve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.

The horizontal sliding secondary glazing option is popular because it allows easy access to the existing sash window to clean or for ventilation. You can also get them with a tilt feature, which is activated by unlocking the catch on the secondary glass panel and lifting it vertically until you reach a predetermined point. This is a great option for windows that aren't opened often. It can also be used to allow air conditioning access to bay windows. It is also possible to make use of them to open the middle sash on the traditional sash bay windows to give a more symmetrical appearance.