The 10 Scariest Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows

Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are unable add double glazing to their homes because of financial limitations or because the building is listed and any exterior modifications are prohibited.

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

It consists of an extra glass pane inside the existing window frame which stops cold air from getting into your home, while offering insulation and noise reduction.

Fixed Inserts

If you're thinking about secondary glazing for your sash windows there are several different styles you can pick from. Each style comes with distinct advantages including increased security and reduced condensation. Which one is best for you?

The fundamental idea behind secondary glazing is to install an additional pane of glass within your window frame. This adds an additional layer of soundproofing and insulation which can dramatically improve the energy efficiency of your home.

However, it's not always possible to add double-glazed windows for your home particularly if you live in a listed structure or are subject to strict regulations regarding planning that define what can and cannot be done to your exterior.

Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative in these circumstances. 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 window sashes them with modern ones.

There are a variety of different options available for secondary glazing sash windows, each of can be customized to fit the frame you have. Proprietary systems are generally constructed of painted aluminium frames that fit into the existing bead depth on the sash window. This lets shutters and sills be kept.

They can be equipped with different installation methods like glazing clips or Velcro. These are more appealing than screw-fixed units and are ideal for windows that do not need to be opened often. Alternatively, you can choose a fixed lift out unit, which can be lifted out and then put back in its place with ease, allowing your windows to be opened.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal sliders are the most sought-after method of enhancing the appearance of a windows. They are also very discreet and are ideal for historic structures, conservation areas and listed properties. In most cases, they can be installed without having access to the outside since they operate by the inside.

They can be operated with a hand and can be left open or partially opened to allow ventilation. They are very effective at getting rid of draughts, and have the added benefit of removing 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 system offers all the advantages of modern double glazing to your traditional Sash windows. It consists of PVC double sliding sash window tracks on all four sides of the cavity, the simple bristle seal that is placed around each glass sheet and angle handles that can be pulled by fingers to act as a handle and reduce bowing. It is available in kits of either 1m or 2m lengths of track and an angle, which can be butted together to create larger spans.

The acoustic benefits of secondary glazing are very important and can reduce noise from outside, particularly railway, road and airport traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass can further improve acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and specialist glass, like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can provide even higher levels of acoustic efficiency.

It can improve the efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer for longer. This will reduce the need for central heating. It's less expensive than replacing the original sash window, and can be installed without removing the frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is an affordable option that is often easier to manage than full window replacement. It is also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great way to modernize traditional sash windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their distinctive character.

Vertical Sliders are specifically designed for sash windows where regular hinged panels aren't appropriate. The system has two secondary sashes that are secured one over the other inside an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances to allow for easy movement. The system can be put on the inside of an existing window to ensure greater thermal efficiency, or it can be equipped with a space between the glass and the frame for optimum acoustic properties.

You can pick from a variety of stop-strips and handles that meet your needs. They can be fixed in the closed position to provide additional security, or propped open for ventilation on the glass's top or bottom. They can also be fitted with an insulating bristle seal that can keep out drafts.

'Choices' Imagine vertical slider secondary glazing features all the timber-like details you'd expect from an antique window treatment and comes in a variety of colors to match your existing sash. It's nearly impossible to tell apart from the original sash window, with features like sash horns and traditional butt joints being incorporated into the design. It is available in various sizes and can take glass up to 6.8mm for additional insulation against loss of heat. A tilt-in option is available allowing the individual sashes to hinge into the safety stays to help with cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane hinged secondary glazing can be incorporated into windows in sash of any design, including traditional and casement sash. Our hinged units are manufactured with secure multi-point locking and can be supplied with a key lock handle. This ensures that the glass panel is securely locked in place and pulls tightly to the outer frame, forming a seal to minimize heat loss. Hinged windows can be side-hung or top-hung and can be double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced performance in terms of acoustics and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) or 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).

In contrast to horizontal sash window cost windows which have movable sashes that slide horizontally within the frame casement windows can open outwards and catch breezes from various angles. They can be opened both from the top and bottom to allow controlled airflow. For this reason, they can improve airflow and are a viable alternative to traditional sash windows.

They are commonly utilized in modern homes as they offer small "sightlines" and unobstructed views, but can also be used in listed homes because they do not require transoms or mullions. They're also a good choice for hard-to-reach areas as they can be opened with the turn of the handle.

This kind of window can be a drawback since it may limit the use of certain window coverings. They can also be difficult to clean since they swing outward, and may require regular maintenance and servicing.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be installed by a variety of methods. The cost of installation will vary according to your selection of materials thickness, thickness, and the kind of glass. UPVC windows are generally the least expensive followed by aluminium and finally wooden window frames. Specialized glass may also increase the price and include extra features, such as security or noise reduction.

Another factor that will influence the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complicated the project, the more time and labour will be required. This is especially applicable to older properties that have more complex sash window designs.

The best way to start is to evaluate the condition of your current windows. You can get a precise estimate of the cost by having them checked by professionals.

Generally speaking, secondary glazing will have a minimal impact on the overall appearance of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing has thin and discrete 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 windows that are already sash for cleaning or ventilation. These windows also come with a tilt function, that can be activated by releasing the catch and raising the secondary glazing panel vertically to a predetermined level. This is a great option for windows that aren't opened often. It can be used to provide air conditioning access to bay windows. You can also use them to open up the middle sash on the traditional sash bay windows to give a more symmetrical appearance.