The 10 Most Scariest Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows

Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are unable add double glazing to their home, either due to financial constraints or because the building is listed and any modifications to the exterior are not permitted.

Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative to sash windows. It can be put in various ways.

It's an additional pane of glass within the window frame that prevents cold air from entering your home, as well as providing insulation and noise reduction.

Fixed Inserts

There are many different types of secondary glazing that are available for Sash windows. Each style comes with its own set of benefits ranging from increased security to less condensation. Which one is the best option for you?

The principle behind secondary glazing is the installation of an additional glass within your window frame. This adds an additional layer of insulation and soundproofing, which can significantly improve your home's energy efficiency.

It's not always possible to install double-glazed windows particularly if you live in a listed property or if you are bound by strict planning regulations dictating what can and can't be done to your exterior.

In these situations, secondary glazing is an excellent alternative that can be installed with relative ease. It's also a popular choice for people looking to update their period property without the need to tear down the original sash windows and replace them with new ones.

There are a number of different options for secondary glazing sash windows (linked site), each of that can be adapted to fit your frame. Proprietary systems typically have painted aluminium frames that are designed to fit into the depth of a staff bead an existing sash window which means that sills and shutters can still be retained.

These can be fitted with a variety of installation methods, such as glazing clips or Velcro. They provide a more attractive solution than screw-fixed units, and are ideally suited to windows that don't need to be opened frequently. You can also opt for a fixed lift-out unit, which can be lifted out and put back in its place with ease to allow windows to be opened.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal Sliders provide excellent thermal insulation and are the most well-known solution for improving existing sash windows. They are also quiet and suitable for older homes as well as conservation areas and listed properties. In the majority of cases, they are installed without external access because they are operated by the inside.

They are simple to operate with a hand and can be open wide or left partially open to allow for ventilation. They are effective at keeping out draughts, and also block harmful UV light. They can be combined with a flyscreen to keep out mosquitoes and other insects during the summer months.

Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems provide all the benefits of double glazed sash windows wood glazing for your traditional Sash window. It is comprised of PVC double sliding tracks on the four sides of the cavity, an easy bristle seal around each glass sheet, and finger pull angle handles to act as a handle and lessen bowing. It comes in kits with 1m or 2m of track and angle that can be stacked together to create bigger spans.

Secondary glazing can have a significant effect on noise reduction, particularly for rail, road and airport traffic. The addition of laminated or toughened glass can further improve acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing can reduce outside noise by 52dB(Rw) and specialized glass such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can deliver even higher levels of acoustic performances.

It can improve the energy efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer longer. This can reduce the use of central heating. It's less expensive than replacing window sashes the original sash window and can be installed without the need to remove the frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is a cost effective option which is often less expensive than full window replacement. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's the ideal option to replace sash windows in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits, while maintaining the character of older homes.

Vertical Sliders were specifically designed to be used in sash window applications where regular hinged panels aren't suitable. They have two secondary sashes that are secured to one sash over the other, within an outer frame and are supported by robust spring balances for ease of movement. The system is available as a 'face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the window) for increased thermal performance or a 'reveal-fixed' version which is fitted with an air cavity for glass, within the original window reveal, to ensure optimal audio-acoustic performance.

You can pick from a range of stop-strips and handles that match your preferences. They can be put in the closed position to provide extra security or propped open for ventilation on the glass's top or bottom. They can also be fitted with an insulating seal bristle to prevent draughts.

Imagine a vertical slider with 'Choices' secondary glazing features all the timber-like details you'd expect from a vintage window treatment. It's available in a variety of colors to match your existing sash. It's nearly impossible to differentiate from the original sash window with details like sash horns and traditional butt joints incorporated into the design. It comes in a variety of sizes and can take glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to heat loss. The tilt-in option permits the individual sashes of the window to be hinged upwards on safety stays to facilitate cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane secondary glazing can be positioned on sash windows of any style, including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units are equipped with a keylock handle and are made with multi-point locking. This will ensure that the glazed panel is securely locked in place and is pulled tightly to the frame, creating a seal to reduce loss of heat. Hinged windows can be purchased as either top or side hung and are also available as double-glazed. Our double-glazed windows provide enhanced sound insulation and are available in 43dB,47dB or 51dB.

Contrary to horizontal sash windows which have movable sashes, slide horizontally within the frame casement windows can open outwards and catch breezes from various angles. They can be opened both from the top and bottom to allow controlled airflow. They can therefore increase airflow and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash windows.

They are popular in modern homes due to their small "sightlines" that allow for unobstructed view, but they can also be incorporated into listed properties because they don't require transoms or mullions. They're also a great option for those who live in areas that are difficult to reach since they can be opened with the turn of a handle.

The primary drawback to this kind of window is that they can block large openings and limit the use of certain window treatments. They can also be difficult to clean as they open outwards, and could require regular maintenance and service.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be put in in a variety of ways and the cost will differ according to the type, thickness, and materials you choose for your frame and panes. UPVC windows are typically the least expensive followed by aluminium and finally wooden window frames. Specialised glass, as well any additional features like security or sound reduction can increase the cost of windows.

The complexity of the installation will also affect the cost. The more complex the project is, the more time and labor will be required. This is especially true for heritage properties that have more intricate design of sash windows.

The best way to start is by assessing the condition of your current windows. You can get a reliable estimate of the cost by having them examined by an expert.

Generally speaking, secondary glazing will have a minimal impact on the overall look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing has slim and distinct frame lines. This lets you get the most efficient heat without compromising aesthetics.

The horizontal sliding secondary glazing option is popular because it allows easy access to the sash window for cleaning or ventilation. You can also get them with a tilt function, which you can activate by releasing the catch on your secondary glazing panel and then lifting it vertically to a preset point. This is a great option for windows that don't open often and can be used to allow access to air cooling in bay windows. It is also possible to make use of them to open the middle sash window locks of the traditional sash bay windows to create a more symmetrical look.