Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are unable build new double-glazed windows to their homes due to financial constraints or because they reside in listed buildings that prohibit any exterior modifications.

Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative for sash window and can be installed several ways.

This is a double-paned window that fits inside your existing window frame. It is insulated and provides noise reduction, in addition to preventing cold air from entering your home.

Fixed Inserts

If you're thinking of secondary glazing for your sash windows refurbishment windows, there are a variety of styles to choose from. Each style has its own set of benefits including increased security and less condensation. Which is the best choice for you?

The principle behind secondary glazing is to incorporate an extra pane of glass into your existing 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 practical 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 with your exterior.

In these situations secondary glazing is an excellent alternative that can be installed with ease. It's also a popular option for those looking to upgrade their old home without having to take down the original windows with sash and replace them with contemporary 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 an existing sash window so that shutters and sills are still able to be used.

They can be installed with a variety of installation methods that include glazing clips and Velcro. They provide a more attractive solution than screw-fixed units, and are particularly suited to windows that do not need to be opened frequently. You can also opt for a fixed lift-out unit that can be easily lifted out and reinstalled to allow you to open your windows.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal sliders are the most sought-after method to enhance the appearance of your sash window. They are also discreet and ideal for historic properties as well as conservation areas and listed property. In most instances, they can be installed without external access because they operate by the inside.

They are easy to operate using a hand, and can be open wide or left partially open for ventilation. They are extremely effective in stopping draughts and also have the added benefit of filtering out harmful UV light. They can be combined with a flyscreen to keep out mosquitoes and other insects during summer months.

Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system provides all the advantages of modern double glazing to your traditional sash windows. It consists of PVC double sliding track on all four sides of the cavity and a simple brush seal around each glass sheet and a finger pull angle handle to act as a hand and reduce bowing. It is available in kits of 1m or 2m lengths of track and an angle, which can be butted together to create larger spans.

The acoustic benefits of second glazing are very important and can improve noise reduction from outside, particularly the airport, rail and road traffic. The addition of laminated or toughened glass further enhances the acoustic quality. Secondary glazing is a standard feature that can reduce outside noise by 52dB(Rw) and specialist glass like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can deliver even higher levels of acoustic performances.

It can increase the energy efficiency of your home by keeping it warm for longer. This will decrease the need for central heating. It is much cheaper than replacing your sash windows and can be installed almost everywhere without the need to remove the window or door frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is a cost-effective choice that is typically more manageable than a complete window sash replacement replacement. It is suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great way to improve the look of traditional sash windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their originality.

Vertical Sliders are specifically designed for sash windows where regular hinged panels don't work. They come with two secondary sashes that are secured, one above the other, within an outer frame. They are supported by sturdy spring balances for ease of movement. The system can be put on the inside of an existing window to ensure better thermal performance or equipped with an opening between the frame and the glass for optimum acoustic properties.

You can choose from a range of stop-strips and handles to match your preferences. They can be positioned in the closed position to provide additional security, or propped open for ventilation on the top or bottom glass. They can also be equipped with an insulating bristle seal to stop draughts.

The 'Choices' vertical slider secondary glass features all the authentic wood detailing you'd expect in a period window. It is available in a variety of colours that match your existing sash. It is almost impossible to differentiate from the original sash windows, since details like sash lock door handles horns and traditional butt joints are integrated into the design. It's available in a broad range of sizes and accepts glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to prevent loss of heat. The tilt-in option permits the sashes of each window to be hinged backwards to make it easier for cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane secondary glass can be installed on sash windows of any design, including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units are constructed with a secure multi-point locking system and can be supplied with keys and a handle for the lock. This combination ensures that the glass panel is securely locked in place and is pulled tightly against the frame, forming a seal to minimize heat loss. Hinged windows can be top-hung or side-hung and can be double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced acoustic performance and are available in 43dB, 47dB and 51dB.

Casement windows are able to open to the outside and catch breezes from different angles. This is unlike the horizontal sash window, that has movable sashes inside the frame that move horizontally. They can also be opened from both the top and bottom for controlled airflow. This is why they can increase airflow and are a viable alternative to traditional windows made of sash.

They are commonly used in modern homes due to their slim "sightlines" that permit an unobstructed view. However, they can also be installed into listed properties because they do not require transoms and mullions. They can also be used in areas that are difficult to access since they can be opened simply by turning a handle.

The primary drawback to this kind of window is that it could block large openings and limit the use of certain window treatments. They can also be difficult to clean since they swing outward and may require regular maintenance and service.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be set up with a variety of methods and the cost will vary according to the thickness, type and materials you select for your panes and frame. upvc sash frames are the least expensive followed by aluminium, and wooden frames. Specialized glass can also add to the cost, as well as any additional features like security or noise reduction.

The complexity of the installation will also impact the cost. The more complicated the project is, the more time and labor will be required. This also applies to older homes with more complex sash windows that require expertise and knowledge.

Analyzing the condition of windows in use is a good way to begin. Having them surveyed by a skilled professional will give you an accurate estimate of what the price might be.

Generally speaking, secondary glazing will have a minimal impact on the overall look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing has thin and subtle frame lines. This lets you get the most efficient heat without compromising aesthetics.

A very popular choice for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which gives easy access to existing sash windows for cleaning or ventilation. You can also get them with a tilt feature, which you can activate by unlocking the catch on the secondary glass panel and lifting it vertically to a preset point. This is perfect for windows that don't get opened very often. It can also be used to permit air conditioning access in bay windows. You can even use them to open the middle sash of the traditional sash bay windows to create a more symmetrical look.