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 due to financial constraints or because the building is listed and any modifications to the exterior are forbidden.
Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative to sash windows. It can be installed in a variety of ways.
It consists of an extra pane of glass within the window frame, which blocks cold air from getting into your home, while offering insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
There are many different types of secondary glazing for sash windows. Each has its own set of benefits, from improved security to reduced condensation. Which one is best for you?
The fundamental idea behind secondary glazing is the installation of an additional glass pane within the window frame. This provides 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 new double-glazed windows to your property particularly if you live in a listed structure or are subject to strict planning regulations that dictate what can and can't be done to your exterior.
In these instances, secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative that can be installed with ease. It's also a popular choice for people looking to update their old home without the need to tear down the original windows in sash and replace them with modern ones.
There are many different systems available for secondary glazing sash windows (read article), each one of that can be adapted 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, which means that sills and shutters can be kept.
They can be fitted 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 frequently. You can also opt for a fixed lift-out unit, which can be lifted out and then put back in place with relative ease to allow windows to be opened.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders provide excellent thermal insulation and are the most well-known solution to improve the performance of existing windows with sash. They are also discrete and are ideal for historic homes as well as conservation areas and listed property. In most cases, they can be installed without access from outside because they are operated by the inside.
They can be operated by hand, and they can be left open or partially closed for ventilation. They are very effective in stopping draughts and also they also have the benefit of filtering out harmful UV light. In summer they can be utilized with a flyscreen in order to keep insects out and mosquitoes.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the benefits of modern double glazing to your traditional sash windows. It is comprised of PVC double sliding track on all four sides of cavity and a simple brush seal around each glass sheet and finger pull angle handle to function as a hand and reduce bowing. It is available in kits of 1m or 2m lengths of track and angle that can be butted together to create larger spans.
The acoustic benefits of secondary glazing are very significant and it can significantly enhance noise reduction from outside, especially the airport, rail and road traffic. The addition of laminated glass or toughened glasses further enhances the acoustic performances. Standard secondary glazing can reduce outside noise to 52dB(Rw) and specialized glass like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can provide even greater levels of acoustic performances.
It can increase the energy efficiency of your home by keeping your house warmer for longer, and reducing dependence on central heating. It's less expensive than replacing the original sash window refurbishment window, and can be installed without removing the existing frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective option that is usually more manageable than full window replacement. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's an ideal solution to upgrade windows with sash window renovation in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits while keeping the character of older homes.
Vertical Sliders were specifically designed for use in sash windows in which hinged panels from the standard range would not be suitable. They have two secondary sashes that are secured to one sash above the other, inside an outer frame. They are supported by sturdy spring balances for ease of movement. The system can be put on the inside of an existing window for better thermal performance, or it can be fitted with a space between the frame and the glass for optimum acoustic properties.
You can choose from a range of handles and stop-strips to suit your preferences. They can be positioned in the closed position for extra security or propped open for ventilation on the top or bottom glass. They can also be fitted with an insulating seal bristle to prevent drafts.
The 'Choices' vertical slider secondary glass has all the authentic wood detailing you'd expect to find in a period window treatment. It comes in a range of colors that are compatible with your sash. It's almost impossible to distinguish from the original sash window, with features like sash horns & traditional butt joints included in the design. It's available in a wide selection of sizes and will accept glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to prevent loss of heat. The tilt-in feature allows the sashes of each window to be hinged backwards to make it easier for cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane secondary glass can be fitted on sash windows of any style including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units are equipped with a keylock handle and are constructed with multi-point locking. This ensures that the glazed panel is locked in place and is pulled tightly to the outer frame, forming a seal to minimise loss of heat. Hinged windows can be top-hung or side-hung, and they can also be double-glazed. Double-glazed windows are a great way to improve sound insulation and are available in 43dB, 47dB and 51dB.
Casement windows are able to open up and let in breezes from different angles. This is different from a the horizontal sash window with movable sashes in the frame, which slide horizontally. They can be opened from the top and bottom to allow controlled ventilation. This is why they can improve airflow and offer an effective alternative to traditional sash windows.
They are commonly used in modern homes due to their small "sightlines" that permit unobstructed view, but they can also be put in listed buildings since they do not require mullions and transoms. They can also be utilized in places that are difficult to reach since they are easily opened by turning a handle.
This kind of window could be a disadvantage because it can restrict the use of certain window coverings. They can be difficult to clean as they open outward. They may also require regular maintenance and care.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be installed using a variety of ways. The cost of installation will vary according to your selection of materials such as thickness, thickness and type of glass. uPVC frames are the least expensive followed by aluminium, and wooden frames. Specialized glass, in addition to any other features such as security or sound reduction could also raise prices.
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 also true for heritage properties with more complex sash windows, which require expertise and knowledge.
A good place to start is to assess the condition of your existing windows. The survey conducted by an experienced professional will give you an accurate idea of what the costs might be.
In general, secondary glazing will have minimal impact on the overall appearance of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing has slim and distinct frame lines. This lets you achieve thermal efficiency without compromising aesthetics.
A popular choice of secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which allows easy access to your 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 your secondary glazing panel vertically up to a certain point. This is great for windows that don't open often and is a great way to allow access to air conditioning in bay windows. You can also use them to open up the middle sash of the traditional sash bay windows to give a more symmetrical appearance.