Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners aren't able to install double glazing to their home, either because of financial limitations or because the structure is listed and any modifications to the exterior are forbidden.

Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative to sash windows. It can be installed several ways.

This is a double-paned, insulated glass that fits inside the frame of your window. It is insulated and provides noise reduction, while preventing cold air from entering the home.

Fixed Inserts

If you're thinking of secondary glazing for your sash windows, there are a variety of styles to choose from. Each has its own number of advantages, ranging from improved security to reduced condensation. Which is the best choice for you?

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

It's not always possible to add double-glazed windows, particularly if your house is an listed property or you are bound by strict planning regulations dictating what can and can't be done to your exterior.

Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative in these instances. It can be installed quite easily. It's also a popular choice for those who want to modernize their period property without the need to tear down the original windows in sash and replace them with new ones.

There are a number of different options available for secondary glazing sash windows, all of which is configurable to suit the frame you have. Proprietary systems typically have painted aluminium frames that are made to fit within the depth of a staff bead an existing sash window which means that sills and shutters are still able to be used.

These can be fitted with a variety of installation methods, including glazing clips or Velcro. These offer a more aesthetic solution to screw-fixed units and are particularly suited to windows that aren't required to be opened frequently. Alternately, you can opt for an adjustable lift-out unit, which can be lifted and put back in its place with ease, allowing your windows to be opened.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal sliders are the most sought-after way to improve existing sash window. They are also extremely discreet and are ideal for historic structures, conservation areas and listed properties. In most cases, they are installed without external access because they operate from the inside.

They can be operated manually, and they can be left open or partially opened for ventilation. They are effective in stopping draughts and also block harmful UV light. In summer they can be paired 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 consists of pvc sash windows double sliding sash window locks track that runs across all four sides of cavity and a simple brush seal around each glass sheet and finger pull angle handle to act as a hand and decrease bowing. It is available in kits comprising either 1m or 2m lengths of track and angle that can be butted together to make larger spans.

Secondary glazing can have a significant effect on noise reduction, particularly for rail, road and airport traffic. The inclusion of laminated glass or toughened glasses further enhances 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 increase the energy efficiency of your home by keeping your house warmer for longer and decreasing dependence on central heating. It is less expensive than replacing the original sash window, and can be installed without removing the existing frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is a cost effective option that is usually less expensive than full window replacement and is perfectly suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great option to upgrade windows with sash in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits while keeping the charm of older homes.

Vertical Sliders were designed for use in sash windows in which hinged panels from the standard range aren't suitable. The system features two secondary sashes, which are secured one above one within an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances that allow for ease of movement. The system can be put on the inside of an existing window for more efficient thermal performance, or it can be fitted with a cavity between the glass and the frame to ensure the best acoustic performance.

You can pick from a variety of stop-strips and handles to match your preferences. They can be fixed in a closed position for extra security or propped open to allow ventilation on the glass's top or bottom. They can be fitted with an insulation bristle to block drafts.

The 'Choices' vertical slider secondary glass has all the authentic wood detailing you'd expect to see in a period window treatment. It comes in a range of colors that will match your existing sash. It is almost impossible to distinguish from original sash windows as details like sash horns as well as traditional butt joints are included in the design. It's available in a broad variety of sizes and can accept glass up to 6.8mm to give additional insulation against loss of heat. A tilt-in option is available that allows the individual sashes of the frame to hinge into the safety stays to help with cleaning.

Hinged Casement

The single-pane hinged secondary glazing can be incorporated into windows made of sash in any style including casement and traditional box sash. Our hinged units are constructed with secure multi-point locking and are available with keys lock handles. This will ensure that the glazed panel is securely secured and is pulled tightly to the frame, forming a sealing to minimize loss of heat. Hinged windows are available either top or side-hung and can also be made as double-glazed. Double-glazed windows are a great way to improve acoustic performance and are available in 43dB, 47dB and 51dB.

Casement windows are able open to the outside and catch breezes at various angles. This is unlike horizontal sash window, with movable sashes in the frame, which slide horizontally. They can be opened from the top and bottom for controlled airflow. They can therefore improve airflow and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash window restoration window.

They are commonly used in modern homes due to their slim "sightlines" that allow for clear views, however they can also be incorporated into listed properties because they do not require mullions and transoms. They're also a great 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 kind of window is that it can block large openings, and could limit the use of certain window treatments. They can be difficult to clean since they swing outward. They could also require regular maintenance and service.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be put in place by a variety of methods. The cost will vary according to your selection of materials, thickness, and kind of glass. upvc sliding sash windows frames are the most expensive, followed by aluminium and then wooden frames. Specialised glass, as well any other features such as security or sound reduction can also increase prices.

The complexity of the installation will affect the cost. The more complicated the project is, the more time and labor it will require. This can also apply to older homes with more complex sash windows, which require expertise and knowledge.

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

Generally speaking, secondary glass will have minimal impact on the overall look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing has slim and distinct frame lines. This allows you to improve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.

A very popular choice for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding sash windows, which allows an easy access to your existing sash windows to clean or ventilation. They can also be purchased with a tilt function which you can activate by releasing the catch on the secondary glazing panel and then lifting it vertically to a preset 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. You can also use them to open up the middle sash on an old-fashioned sash bay window to create a more symmetrical look.