The 10 Scariest Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows

Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are not able to add double glazing to their home, either because of financial limitations or due to the fact that the building is listed and exterior modifications are prohibited.

Secondary glazing for windows with sash is a great alternative that can be put in with a variety of ways.

This product is a double-paned window that can be placed inside the frame of your window. It offers insulation and noise reduction, in addition to preventing cold air from entering the home.

Fixed Inserts

There are many different types of secondary glazing available for sash windows. Each style comes with each of its own benefits including increased security and reduced condensation. Which is the most effective option for you?

The principle behind secondary glazing is to install an additional glass pane within the window frame. This creates an extra layer of soundproofing and insulation which can greatly improve the energy efficiency of your home.

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

In these cases secondary glazing is a great alternative that can be installed with relative ease. It's also a popular option for those who want to modernize their old home without the need to tear down the original windows with sash and replace them with new ones.

There are a variety of different systems available for secondary glazing sash windows, each one of can be customized to fit the frame you have. Proprietary systems typically have painted aluminium frames which are designed to fit into the depth of a staff bead on an existing sash window which means that sills and shutters can be kept.

They can be fitted with a variety of mounting methods such as glazing clips and Velcro. They provide a more attractive solution to screw-fixed units and are particularly suited to windows that do not need to be opened frequently. Alternately, you can choose a fixed lift-out unit, which can be lifted and put back in place with ease to allow windows to be opened.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal sliders are the most popular method to enhance the appearance of your windows. They are also extremely discreet and suitable for older buildings, conservation areas, and listed properties. In the majority of instances, they can be installed without access from outside because they are operated from the inside.

They are easy to operate using a hand, and can be open wide or left partially open to allow for ventilation. They are extremely effective in eliminating draughts and they also have the benefit of removing harmful UV light. In the summer they can be utilized together with a flyscreen to keep insects out and mosquitoes.

Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system offers all the benefits of modern double glazing to your original sash windows. It consists of PVC double sliding sash windows track on all four sides of cavity with a brush seal around each sheet of glass and a handle for a finger pull angle to function as a hand, reducing bowing. It comes in kits of 1m or 2m track and angle that can be put together to create bigger spans.

The acoustic advantages of secondary glazing are significant and can dramatically enhance noise reduction from outside especially railway, road and airport traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass further enhances acoustic performance. Secondary glazing that is standard can reduce outside noise to 52dB(Rw) and specialized glass such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can achieve even higher levels of acoustic performances.

It can boost the energy efficiency of your home by keeping it warm for longer. This can reduce the need for central heating. It's much 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 choice that is usually easier to manage than full window replacement. It's also 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 character.

Vertical Sliders are designed especially for windows with sash openings where standard hinged panels don't work. The system is comprised of two secondary sashes that are secured one above one within 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 for better thermal performance, or it can be equipped with an opening between the frame and the glass to ensure the best acoustic performance.

They can be equipped with a variety of stops and handles to meet the needs of the homeowner by allowing the bottom or top pane to allow for ventilation or fixed in an open position for additional security. They can be equipped with an insulation bristle to block drafts.

The 'Choices' Imagine vertical slider secondary glass comes with the same authentic wood details you'd expect to find in a period window. It is available in a range of colors that are compatible with your sash. It's almost impossible to distinguish from the original sash windows, since details like sash horns and traditional butt joints are incorporated into the design. It is available in many sizes and can be fitted with glass up to 6.8mm for additional insulation against loss of heat. The tilt-in option allows the sashes of each window to be hinged inwards to make it easier for cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane secondary glass can be installed on sash windows in any design, including traditional box sash and casement. The hinged units we offer can be supplied with a keylock handle, and are made with multi-point locking. This combination ensures that the glass panel is securely secured and is pulled tightly to the frame, forming a seal to minimize heat loss. Hinged windows can be top-hung or side-hung, and they can also be double-glazed. Our double-glazed windows provide enhanced sound insulation and are available in 43dB, 47dB or 51dB.

Casement windows can open to the outside and catch breezes from different angles. This is unlike horizontal sash window sash replacement, which has movable sashes within the frame that slide horizontally. They can be opened from the top and bottom for controlled ventilation. Because of this, they can help improve airflow and offer an effective alternative to traditional windows made of sash.

They are commonly used in modern homes due to their small "sightlines" which allow for clear views, however they can also be incorporated in listed homes since they don't require transoms or mullions. They're also a great option for areas that are difficult to access as they can be opened with the turn of the handle.

This kind of window 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 installed with a variety of methods and the cost will vary depending on the thickness, type and materials you select for your frames and panes. UPVC windows are typically the least expensive followed by aluminium, and then wooden window frames. Specialized glass may also increase the cost, as well as any extra features, such as security or sound reduction.

The complexity of the installation will also impact the cost. The more complex the project, the longer and more labor it will require. This is especially true for heritage properties that have more intricate designs for timber sash windows windows.

Analyzing the condition of windows in use is a good place to begin. Having them surveyed by a skilled professional will give you a precise idea of what the costs could be.

In general secondary glazing can have little effect on the look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing has thin and discrete frame lines. This lets you improve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.

A very popular choice for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which gives easy access to your existing sash windows for cleaning or ventilation. They also come with a tilt function, that can be activated by releasing the catch and raising the secondary glazing panel vertically up to a certain point. This is a great option for windows that don't get opened very often. It can also be used to allow air conditioning access in bay windows. You can even use them to open the middle sash on the traditional sash bay windows to create a more uniform look.