The 10 Most Scariest Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows

Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are unable to add new double glazing to their homes, either because of financial constraints or because they live in listed buildings which prohibit any exterior modifications.

Secondary glazing for sash windows is a good alternative and can be installed using a variety of methods.

It is made up of an additional glass pane inside the existing window frame which stops cold air from getting into your home, while also providing insulation and noise reduction.

Fixed Inserts

If you're considering secondary glazing for your sash windows there are a variety of styles you can pick from. Each style has its own set of benefits including increased security and reduced condensation. Which one is the best option for you?

The fundamental idea behind secondary glazing is the installation of an additional glass within the window frame. This adds a layer of insulation and noiseproofing your home, increasing its energy efficiency.

However it's not always feasible to install new double-glazed windows to your property particularly if you live in a listed building or are subject to strict regulations regarding planning that dictate what can and can't be done to your exterior.

In these instances, secondary glazing is an excellent alternative that can be put in with relative ease. It's also a popular option for those who want to modernize their period property without the need to tear down the original sash windows and replace them with new ones.

There are many different options for secondary glazing sash windows, each one of can be customized to fit your frame. Proprietary systems usually have painted aluminium frames which are designed to fit within the depth of a staff bead an existing sash window (clicking here) which means that sills and shutters can still be retained.

They can be equipped with a variety of installation methods, including glazing clips and Velcro. They provide a more attractive solution to screw-fixed units and are ideally suited to windows that don't need to be opened frequently. You can also select a fixed lift-out unit that can be easily lifted out and then reinstalled to open your windows.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most sought-after solution for improving existing sash windows. They are also discreet and are ideal for historic homes, conservation areas & listed property. In most instances, they can be installed without external access because they operate from the inside.

They can be operated by hand and can be left open or partially closed for ventilation. They are effective at preventing draughts, and they also filter harmful UV light. In summer, they can be used together with a flyscreen to keep out insects and mosquitoes.

Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the advantages of modern double glazing to your original sash windows repair near me windows. It consists of PVC double sliding tracks on all four sides of the cavity with the simple bristle seal that is placed around each glass sheet, and finger pull angle handles that serve as handles and reduce bowing. It is available in kits of 1m or 2m of track and angle that can be stacked together to create bigger spans.

Secondary glazing can have a significant impact on noise reduction, specifically for road, rail and airport traffic. The use of laminated glass or toughened glasses further enhances the acoustic performances. Secondary glazing that is standard can reduce 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 efficiency of your house by keeping it warm for longer. This will reduce the use of central heating. It's much less expensive than replacing your sash windows and is installed almost everywhere without the need to take out the existing window or door frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is a cost-effective option that is usually simpler to manage than a full window replacement. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's the ideal option to upgrade sash windows in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits, while maintaining the charm of older homes.

Vertical Sliders are specifically designed for sash windows where regular hinged panels aren't appropriate. The system has two secondary sashes, which are secured one over the other inside 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 window) for increased thermal performance or a 'reveal-fixed version that comes with a glass-to-glass cavity inside the window reveal, to ensure optimal audio-acoustic performance.

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

'Choices’ Imagine vertical slider secondary glass has all the authentic wood detailing you'd expect in a period window treatment. It comes in a variety of colors that match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to differentiate from the original sash window with details such as the sash's horns and traditional butt joints incorporated into the design. It's available in an extensive variety of sizes and can accept glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to prevent heat loss. The tilt-in option allows the sashes of each window to be hinged inwards on safety stays to facilitate cleaning.

Hinged Casement

The single-pane hinged secondary glazing can be fitted to sash windows of any style such as casement and traditional box sash. Our hinged units are constructed with secure multi-point locking and can be supplied with a key lock handle. This ensures that the glass panel is securely secured and is pulled tightly to the outer frame, forming a seal to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows can be top-hung or side-hung, and they can also be double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced sound insulation and are available in 43dB, 47dB and 51dB.

Unlike horizontal sash windows, with movable sashes that slide horizontally within the frame, casement window sash windows can be opened outward and capture breezes from different angles. They can also be opened from both the top and bottom to provide controlled airflow. For this reason, they can increase airflow and offer an effective alternative to traditional sash windows.

They are used in modern homes due to their small "sightlines" that allow for unobstructed view, but they can also be put in listed buildings since they don't 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.

This kind of window sash repairs could be a disadvantage because it could limit the use of certain window treatments. They are difficult to clean as they can swing outward. They could also require regular maintenance and service.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be put in using a variety ways and the price will vary depending on the thickness, type and materials you choose for your panes and frame. uPVC frames are the least expensive followed by aluminium, and then wooden frames. Specialized glass, in addition to any other features such as security or sound reduction could also increase prices.

The complexity of the installation will impact the cost. The more complicated the installation, the longer and more labor it will require. This can also apply to older homes with more intricate sash windows that require expertise and knowledge.

The best way to start is to assess the condition of your current windows. A survey by an experienced professional will give you a precise estimate of what the cost might be.

In general secondary glazing can have an insignificant impact on the look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing features slim and distinct frame lines. This lets you get the most efficient heat without compromising aesthetics.

A popular choice of secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which provides an easy access to your existing sash windows for cleaning or ventilation. You can also get them with a tilt function, which you can activate by releasing the catch on your secondary glazing panel and then 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 to bay windows. It is also possible to use them to open up the middle sash on an old-fashioned sash bay window to create a more uniform look.