The 10 Scariest Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows
Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are unable to add new double glazing to their homes due to financial limitations or because they live in listed buildings that prohibit any modifications to the exterior.
Secondary glazing is a great alternative for sash window restoration near me window and can be installed several ways.
It consists of an extra pane of glass inside the window frame, which blocks cold air from getting into your home, while providing insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
If you're thinking about secondary glazing for your sash windows there are several different styles to pick from. Each comes with its own set of benefits, from increased security to lower condensation. Which is the best choice for you?
The fundamental idea behind secondary glazing is to install an extra pane of glass inside the window frame. This adds a layer of insulation and noiseproofing to your home, improving its energy efficiency.
It's not always possible to install double-glazed windows particularly if you live in a listed property or you are governed by strict planning regulations dictating what can and can't be done with your exterior.
In these instances, secondary glazing is a great alternative that can be installed with relative ease. It's also a popular choice for those looking to upgrade their period property without the need to tear down the original sash windows and replace them with modern ones.
There are many different systems available for secondary glazing sash windows, all of can be customized to fit your frame. Proprietary systems are usually made of painted aluminium frames that fit into the existing depth of the staff bead on windows with sash. This lets shutters and sills be kept.
They can be installed using a variety of installation methods that include glazing clips and Velcro. They provide a more attractive solution than screw-fixed units, and are ideally suited to windows that don't need to be opened often. You can also choose an adjustable lift-out unit, which can be lifted out and put back in place with relative ease to allow windows to be opened.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most sought-after option for enhancing existing sash windows. They are also extremely discreet and are ideal for historic buildings, conservation areas, and listed properties. They can be installed in most cases without the need for access from outside because they are operated from inside.
They are easy to operate by hand and can be opened wide or left partially open to allow for ventilation. They are extremely effective in stopping draughts and also have the added benefit of blocking harmful UV light. They can be used in combination with a flyscreen to ward off mosquitoes and other insects during the summer months.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system provides all the benefits of modern double glazing for your classic windows made of sash. It consists of PVC double sliding tracks on the 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 1m or 2m of track and angle that can be put together to create larger spans.
Secondary glazing can have a significant impact on noise reduction, specifically for road, rail and airport traffic. The addition of laminated or toughened glass can further improve acoustic performance. Secondary glazing that is standard reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and special glass, like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can provide even higher levels of acoustic performance.
It can increase the energy efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer for longer and reducing reliance on central heating. It's much less expensive than replacing your old sash windows and can be installed in most cases without the need to take out the existing window or door frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective option that is typically more manageable than a complete window replacement. It is also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's an ideal solution for upgrading traditional sash windows in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits while keeping the charm of older homes.
Vertical Sliders are specially designed for sash windows where regular hinged panels aren't suitable. They feature two secondary sashes that are secured, one above the other, inside an outer frame. They are supported by sturdy spring balances that allow for effortless movement. The system can be put on the inside of an existing window for better thermal performance, or it can be equipped with a cavity between the frame and the glass to maximize acoustic properties.
They can be equipped with a variety of stops and handles to meet the needs of the homeowner and can be used to prop open the bottom or top pane to allow for ventilation or fixed in the closed position to provide security. They can be equipped with an insulation bristle to block draughts.
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 variety of colours that match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to tell apart from the original sash window, with details such as the sash's horns and traditional butt joints being incorporated into the design. It's available in a broad variety of sizes and can accept glass up to 6.8mm to provide additional insulation against heat loss. The tilt-in option permits the sashes of each window to be hinged inwards on safety stays for easier cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane secondary glass can be positioned on sash windows in any design, including traditional box sash window sash and casement. Our hinged units can be equipped with a keylock handle, and are constructed with multi-point locking. This combination ensures that the glazed panel is locked in place and is pulled tightly to the outer frame, creating a seal to minimize loss of heat. Hinged windows are available as either top or side-hung and can also be constructed with double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced acoustic performance and are available in 43dB,47dB or 51dB.
Casement windows are able to open to the outside and catch breezes at various angles. This is different from a the horizontal sash window with movable sashes in the frame that move horizontally. They can also be opened from the top and bottom to provide controlled airflow. They are therefore able to improve airflow, and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash windows.
They are commonly used in modern homes due to their narrow "sightlines" that permit clear views, however they can also be installed into listed properties because they don't require mullions and transoms. They are also a good option for areas that are difficult to access as they can be opened by the twist of the handle.
This type of window can be a drawback since it can restrict the use of certain window coverings. They can be difficult to clean as they can swing outward. They may also require regular maintenance and care.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be installed by a variety of methods. The cost of installation will vary according to your preference of the materials, thickness, and type of glass. UPVC windows are generally the least expensive, followed by aluminium and finally wooden window frames. Specialized glass can also add to the price and also any additional features such as security or sound reduction.
The complexity of the installation will also affect the cost. The more complex the project is, the more time and labor it will require. This is also the case for older homes with more complex designs for sash windows.
Examining the condition of your windows that are in use is a good place to begin. You can get a reliable estimate of the cost by having them examined by an expert.
Generally speaking, secondary glazing will have little impact on the overall appearance of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing features thin and discrete frame lines. This allows you to improve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.
A popular choice of secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which allows easy access to your existing sash windows to clean or ventilation. These windows also come with a tilt feature which is activated by releasing the catch and raising your secondary glazing panel vertically up to a certain degree. This is a great option for windows that don't get frequently opened. It can also be used to allow air conditioning access to bay windows. You can also use them to open the middle sash in a traditional sash window locks with key Bay Window to create a more symmetrical appearance.