The 10 Scariest Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows
Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are unable add double glazing to their home, either because of financial limitations or due to the fact that the building is listed and modifications to the exterior are not permitted.
Secondary glazing for windows made of sash is an excellent alternative that can be put in in various ways.
It consists of an extra glass pane inside the window frame that stops cold air from getting into your home, while providing insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
There are many different types of secondary glazing for sash windows. Each offers a unique number of advantages, ranging from increased security to less condensation. But which is the best choice for you?
The fundamental idea behind secondary glazing is fitting an additional pane of glass inside your existing window frame. This adds an additional 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 you live in an listed property or if you are bound by strict planning regulations that dictate what can and cannot be done with your exterior.
Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative in these instances. It can be installed relatively easily. It's also a popular choice for those who want to modernize their home without having to tear down the original windows in sash and replace them with new ones.
There are a number of different options for secondary glazing sash windows, each one of can be customized to fit the frame you have. Proprietary systems typically have painted aluminium frames that are designed to fit into the depth of a staff bead on an existing sash window, which means that sills and shutters can still be retained.
They can be equipped using a variety of methods for installation, such as glazing clips or Velcro. These offer a more aesthetic solution than screw-fixed units, and are particularly suited to windows that don't need to be opened frequently. You can also choose an unfixed lift-out unit that can be easily removed and then reinstalled to open your windows.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal sliders are the most well-known method of enhancing the appearance of a windows with sash window restoration. They are also very discrete and are ideal for historic buildings, conservation areas & listed properties. They can be installed with the need for access from outside as they are operated from inside.
They are simple to operate by hand and can be opened wide or left partially open to allow for ventilation. They are effective in stopping draughts and also filter harmful UV light. In summer they can be paired with a flyscreen in order to keep insects out and mosquitoes.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system provides all the advantages of modern double glazing to your traditional sash windows. It comprises of PVC double glazed sash windows wood sliding tracks on the four sides of the cavity and 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 track and angle that can be put together to create larger spans.
The acoustic benefits of secondary glazing are very significant and it can significantly reduce noise from outside, especially the airport, rail and road traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass further enhances acoustic performance. Secondary glazing is a standard feature that can reduce outside noise to 52dB(Rw), and specialist glass like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can provide even greater levels of acoustic performance.
It can boost the energy efficiency of your house by keeping it warmer longer. This will reduce your reliance on central heat. It is cheaper than replacing the original sash window and can be installed without the need to remove the frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective alternative that is usually less expensive than full window replacement. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's an ideal solution for upgrading traditional windows made of sash in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits, while maintaining the character of older homes.
Vertical Sliders were designed for use in sash windows in which hinged panels from the standard range are not suitable. They feature two secondary sashes that are secured to one sash above the other, within an outer frame and are supported by strong spring balances that allow for effortless movement. The system can be placed on the inside of an existing window for better thermal performance, or it can be fitted with a space between the glass and the frame to ensure the best acoustic performance.
You can choose from a range of handles and stop-strips to match your preferences. They can be positioned in the closed position to provide additional security, or propped open to allow ventilation on the glass's top or bottom. They can be fitted with an insulating seal bristle to prevent drafts.
The 'Choices' Imagine vertical slider secondary glass comes with the same authentic wood details you'd expect to see in a period window treatment. It comes in a variety of colors that match your existing sash. It's nearly impossible to differentiate from the original sash window with details such as the sash's horns and traditional butt joints included in the design. It is available in various sizes and can take glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to heat loss. A tilt-in option is available allowing the individual sashes to hinge into the safety stays to aid in 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 manufactured with a secure multi-point locking system and are available with a key lock handle. This will ensure that the glazed panel is locked securely in place and pulls close to the frame creating a seal designed to minimise 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 (for 47dB) and 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).
Casement windows are able to open outwards and catch breezes at different angles. This is in contrast to a the horizontal sash window, with movable sashes in the frame, which slide horizontally. They can be opened from the top and bottom for controlled airflow. This is why they can improve airflow and provide an effective alternative to traditional sash windows.
They are used in modern homes due to their narrow "sightlines" that permit clear views, however they can also be installed in listed buildings since they do not require mullions and transoms. They're also a good option for those who live in areas that are difficult to reach since they can be opened with the turn of the handle.
This kind of window can be a disadvantage because it may limit the use of certain window coverings. They are difficult to clean as they open outwards. They may also require regular maintenance and care.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be installed using a variety methods. The cost of installation will vary according to your preference of the materials thickness, thickness, and the kind of glass. upvc sash frames are the most expensive, followed by aluminium and wooden frames. Specialized glass, in addition to any other features such as security or sound reduction can also raise prices.
The complexity of the installation will influence the cost. The more complex the project, the more time and labour will be required. This can also apply to historic properties with more complex sash windows that require specialized knowledge and expertise.
Assessing the condition of windows that are in use is a good place to start. You can get a precise estimate of the cost by having them examined by a professional.
In general secondary glazing has little effect on the look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing is thin and subtle frame lines. This allows you to achieve thermal efficiency without compromising aesthetics.
The horizontal sliding secondary glazing is popular because it allows easy access to the existing sash window for cleaning or ventilation. You can also get them with a tilt feature, which you can activate by releasing the catch on the secondary glazing panel and then lifting it vertically until you reach a predetermined point. This is ideal 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 make use of them to open the middle sash of a traditional sash bay window to create a more uniform look.