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 modifications to the exterior are not permitted.
Secondary glazing for windows with sash is a great alternative that can be put in with a variety of ways.
This is a double-paned glass that fits inside the window frame you already have. It provides insulation and noise reduction, while preventing cold air from entering your home.
Fixed Inserts
If you're thinking about secondary glazing for your sash windows there are a variety of styles to choose from. Each comes with its own number of advantages, ranging from improved security to reduced condensation. Which is the most effective option for you?
The fundamental idea behind secondary glazing is to fit an additional glass pane into your existing window frame. This provides an additional layer of insulation and noiseproofing to your home, improving its energy efficiency.
However it's not always feasible to add double-glazed windows for your home, especially if you live in a listed building or are subject to strict planning regulations which dictate what can and can't be done to your exterior.
Secondary glazing is a great alternative in these circumstances. It can be set up fairly easily. It's also a popular option for those looking to upgrade their old home without having to tear down the original windows with sash and replace them with modern ones.
There are a variety of different systems for secondary glazing on sash windows. Each system can be customized to fit into your existing frame. Proprietary systems are generally comprised of painted aluminum frames that fit the existing staff bead depth on the sash window. This lets shutters and sills be kept.
They can be equipped using a variety of methods for installation, like glazing clips or Velcro. They provide a more attractive alternative to screw-fixed units and are particularly suited to windows that aren't required to be opened regularly. You can also select an unfixed lift-out unit that can be easily removed and then reinstalled to open your windows.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal sliders are the most popular way to improve existing windows with sash. They are also quiet and suitable for older homes or conservation areas as well as listed property. In most cases, they are installed without having access to the outside since they operate by the inside.
They are easy to operate by hand and can be open wide or left partially open to allow for ventilation. They are extremely effective in getting rid of draughts, and they also have the benefit of removing harmful UV light. In the summer they can be paired with a flyscreen to keep insects out and mosquitoes.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the benefits of modern double glazing to your original sash windows. It is comprised of PVC double sliding track that runs across all four sides of the cavity and a simple brush seal around each sheet of glass and a handle for a finger pull angle to act as a hand and reduce bowing. It is available in kits comprising either 1m or 2m lengths of track and angle that can be joined to create larger spans.
The acoustic benefits of secondary glazing are significant and it can significantly enhance noise reduction from outside especially the airport, rail and road traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass can further improve acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and specialist glass, such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can provide higher levels of acoustic performance.
It can increase the energy efficiency of your home by keeping it warm for longer. This will reduce the use of central heating. It is cheaper than replacing the original sash window, and can be installed without having to remove the frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective option that is often easier to manage than full window replacement. It is suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's an ideal solution to upgrade windows made of sash in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits, while maintaining the traditional look of older homes.
Vertical Sliders were designed to be used in sash window applications where hinged panels of the regular kind aren't suitable. The system has two secondary sashes that are secured one over the other inside an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances that allow for ease of movement. The system can be purchased as a 'face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the existing window) for increased thermal performance, or a'reveal fixed' version which has an air cavity for glass within the window's original reveal, for optimum audio-acoustic performance.
They can be equipped with a variety of stops and handles to accommodate the preferences of the homeowner and can be used to prop open the top or bottom pane for ventilation or fixed in a closed position for added security. They can be equipped with an insulation bristle to block drafts.
'Choices' Imagine vertical slider secondary glazing comes with all the timber-like details you'd expect from a period window treatment. It's also available in an array of colours to match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to distinguish from the original sash window with features like sash horns and traditional butt joints incorporated into the design. It is available in various sizes and can accept glass up to 6.8mm to provide additional insulation against loss of heat. The tilt-in feature allows the individual sashes of the window to be hinged upwards on safety stays for easier cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane hinged secondary glass can be fitted to windows made of sash in any style such as traditional and casement sash. Our hinged units are constructed with a secure multi-point locking system and can be supplied with keys and a handle for the lock. This combination ensures that the glazed panel is securely locked in place and pulls tightly to the outer frame, forming a seal to reduce heat loss. Hinged windows can be side-hung or top-hung and can be double-glazed. Our double-glazed Windows provide enhanced sound insulation and are available in 43dB (for 47dB), 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).
Casement windows can open outwards and catch breezes from different angles. This is in contrast to a the horizontal sash window, with movable sashes in the frame that move horizontally. They can be opened both from the top and bottom for controlled airflow. Because of this, they can improve airflow and are a viable alternative to traditional windows with sash.
They are commonly used in modern homes due to their narrow "sightlines" that allow for unobstructed view, but they can also be put in listed buildings since they do not require transoms or mullions. They're also a great option for areas that are difficult to access because they can be opened by the turn of a handle.
The primary disadvantage of this kind of window is that it could block off large openings and limit the use of certain window treatments. They are difficult to clean since they swing outwards. They may also require regular maintenance and care.
Lift Out flush sash windows glazing can be set up with a variety of methods and the cost will differ depending on the type, thickness, and the materials you select for your frame and panes. UPVC windows are typically the least expensive, followed by aluminium and then wooden window frames. Specialised glass can also increase the price and also any additional features such as security or noise reduction.
The complexity of the installation will affect the cost. The more complex the project, the more time and labor will be required. This is also true for historic properties with more intricate sash windows that require specialized knowledge and expertise.
Assessing the condition of existing windows is a good way to start. You can get an accurate estimate of the cost by having them inspected by an expert.
In general secondary glazing can have a minimal effect on the look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing features thin and discrete frame lines. This lets you improve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.
A popular choice of secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which gives an easy access to your windows that are already sash for cleaning or ventilation. It is also possible to get them with a tilt function which you can activate by unlocking the catch on the secondary glass 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 allow air conditioning access to bay windows. It is also possible to use them to open the middle sash of a traditional sash bay window to create a more uniform look.