Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are not able to add double glazing to their house, either due to financial constraints or due to the fact that the building is listed and modifications to the exterior are forbidden.

Secondary glazing is a great alternative to sash window locks with key windows and can be put in various ways.

It is made up of an additional glass pane inside the window frame, which blocks cold air from entering your home, as well as offering insulation and noise reduction.

Fixed Inserts

There are a variety of styles of secondary glazing that are available for Sash windows. Each offers a unique set of benefits, from increased security to less 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 sash repairs frame. This creates an extra layer of soundproofing and insulation which can greatly improve your home's energy efficiency.

It's not always possible to add double-glazed windows, particularly if you live in classified as a historic property or you are bound by strict planning regulations that dictate what can and cannot be done to your exterior.

Secondary glazing is a great alternative in these situations. It can be put in quite easily. It's also a popular choice for those who want to modernize their period property without having to take down the original windows in sash and replace them with new ones.

There are several different systems for secondary glazing on Sash windows. Each can be adapted to fit into your existing frame. Proprietary systems usually have painted aluminium frames that are made to fit within the depth of a staff bead an existing sash window meaning that shutters and sills can be kept.

They can be equipped using a variety of methods for installation, like glazing clips or Velcro. These offer a more aesthetic alternative to screw-fixed units and are especially suited for windows that do not need to be opened often. Alternatively, you can choose a fixed lift-out unit, which can be lifted and put back in place with relative ease to allow your windows to be opened.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal Sliders provide excellent thermal insulation and are the most popular option for enhancing existing sash windows. They are also discrete and ideal for historic properties, conservation areas & listed properties. In most instances, they can be installed without access from outside because they are operated 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 effective in keeping out draughts, and also filter harmful UV light. In the summer they can be paired together with a flyscreen to keep insects out and mosquitoes.

Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system provides all the advantages of modern double glazing to your original windows made of sash. It consists of PVC double sliding track that runs across all four sides of the cavity, a simple brush seal around each glass sheet and a handle for a finger pull angle to function as a hand and reduce bowing. It is available in kits of 1m or 2m lengths of track and angle which can be butted together to make larger spans.

Secondary glazing can have a significant effect on noise reduction, particularly for road, rail and airport 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 deliver even more impressive levels of acoustic performance.

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, and can be installed without having to remove the existing frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is a cost effective option which is often less expensive than full window sash replacement replacement. It's also 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 keeping the charm of older homes.

Vertical Sliders are specifically designed for sash windows, where regular hinged panels aren't suitable. They have two secondary sashes which are secured to one sash over the other, within an outer frame. They are supported by strong spring balances to allow for easy movement. The system is available as a 'face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the window) for improved thermal performance, or a'reveal fixed version, which is fitted with an air cavity for glass within the window's original reveal, for optimal sound quality.

They can be fitted with a variety of handles and stop strips to accommodate the preferences of the homeowner, propping open either the bottom or top pane to let in air, or they can be fixed in a closed position for added security. They can be fitted with an insulation bristle to block drafts.

The 'Choices' vertical slider secondary glass features the same authentic wood details you'd expect in a window covering from the past. It is available in a variety of colors that will match your existing sash. It is almost impossible to differentiate from the original sash windows, since details like sash horns and traditional joints are included in the design. It is available in various sizes and can take 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 on safety stays for easier cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane secondary glazing can be fitted on sash windows of any design, including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units are equipped with a keylock handle, and are constructed with multi-point locking. This will ensure that the glazed panel is held securely in place, and it pulls tightly against the frame, forming a seal to minimize heat loss. Hinged windows can be purchased as either side or top hung and are also available as double-glazed. Double-glazed windows are a great way to improve acoustic performance and are available in 43dB,47dB or 51dB.

Unlike horizontal sash double glazing windows, which have movable sashes, slide horizontally within the frame, casement windows can be opened outwards and catch breezes from a variety of angles. They can also be opened from the top and bottom to provide controlled ventilation. They are therefore able to improve airflow, and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional bespoke sash Windows window.

They are commonly used in modern homes because they offer a few "sightlines" and unobstructed views. They can also be incorporated into listed homes due to the fact that they do not require transoms or mullions. They're also a great choice for hard-to-reach areas as they can be opened by the flick of the handle.

This type of window can be a disadvantage because it can restrict the use of certain window treatments. They are difficult to clean, as they swing outward. They also may require regular maintenance and care.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be set up using a variety ways and the cost will vary according to the thickness, type and the materials you select for your panes and frame. UPVC windows are generally the least expensive, followed by aluminium and then wooden window frames. Specialised glass, along with any other features such as security or sound reduction may increase the cost of windows.

The complexity of the installation will also influence the cost. The more complex the project will take longer and more labor will be required. This also applies to older homes with more complex sash windows, which require specialist knowledge and expertise.

A good place to start is to evaluate the condition of your existing windows. Having them surveyed by an experienced professional will give you an accurate idea of what the costs might be.

In general secondary glazing can have little effect on the appearance of your home. This is due to the fact that modern FINEO double-glazing has slim and discrete frames, meaning you can achieve thermal efficiency without compromising on aesthetics.

A very popular choice for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which provides easy access to your existing sash windows for cleaning or ventilation. These are also available with a tilt function, that can be activated by opening the catch and lifting your secondary glazing panel vertically to a predetermined degree. This is a great option for windows that don't get frequently opened. It can also be used to permit air conditioning access in bay windows. They can be used to open the middle sash of a traditional sash Bay Window to create a symmetrical appearance.