The 10 Scariest Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows

Secondary Glazing For sash windows repair near me Windows

Many homeowners are not able to add double glazing to their house, either because of financial limitations or because the building is listed and any modifications to the exterior are forbidden.

Secondary glazing for sash windows is a good alternative that can be put in with a variety of ways.

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

Fixed Inserts

If you're considering secondary glazing for your sash windows, there are a variety of styles to pick from. Each comes with its own set of advantages, from increased security to lower condensation. Which is the most effective option for you?

The principle behind secondary glazing is to install an additional glass pane within the frame of your existing window. This provides an additional layer of soundproofing and insulation, which can greatly increase the efficiency of your home's energy use.

It's not always feasible to install double-glazed windows especially if your home is a listed property or you are bound by strict planning regulations that dictate what can and cannot be done to your exterior.

Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative in these situations. It can be set up quite easily. It's a popular option for those looking to modernize their home without having to replace the original sash window a more modern version.

There are many different systems available for secondary glazing sash windows, each of which is configurable to suit your existing frame. Proprietary systems are usually constructed of painted aluminium frames that fit into the existing staff bead depth on a 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 offer a more stylish alternative to screw-fixed units and are ideally suited to windows that do not need to be opened frequently. You can also choose an adjustable lift-out unit, which can be lifted and put back in place with ease, allowing your windows to be opened.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal Sliders provide excellent thermal insulation and are the most sought-after solution to improve the performance of existing sash windows. They are also very discreet and ideal for historic structures, conservation areas and listed properties. In most cases, they are installed without external access because they operate from the inside.

They can be operated manually, and they can be left open or partially opened for ventilation. They are extremely effective in stopping draughts and also offer the added benefit of blocking harmful UV light. They can be used in conjunction with a flyscreen to ward off mosquitoes and other insects during summer months.

Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the benefits of double glazing for your traditional sash window. It consists of PVC double sliding track that runs across all four sides of the cavity, a simple brush seal around each sheet of glass and a finger pull angle handle to act as a hand and reduce bowing. It is available in kits of 1m or 2m lengths of track and an angle, which can be joined to make larger spans.

The acoustic benefits of second glazing are extremely significant and it can significantly improve noise reduction from outside especially railway, road and airport traffic. The use of laminated glass or toughened glasses further enhances the 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 increase the energy efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer longer. This will reduce the use of central heating. It is much cheaper than replacing your old sash windows, and can be installed without the need to take out the existing window or door 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 a great way to improve the look of traditional sash windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their originality.

Vertical Sliders were developed for use in sash windows where regular hinged panels are not suitable. They come with two secondary sashes that are secured, one above the other, inside an outer frame. They are supported by robust spring balances to allow for easy movement. The system can be put on the inside of a window to provide better thermal performance or fitted with a cavity between the glass and the frame for optimum acoustic properties.

You can pick from a range of stop-strips and handles to suit your preferences. They can be fixed in the closed position to provide additional security or propped open to allow ventilation on the glass's top or bottom. They can be equipped with an insulation bristle to stop drafts.

Imagine a vertical slider with 'Choices' secondary glazing has the same authentic wood detailing you'd expect from a period window treatment. It's also available in an array of colours to match your existing sash. It is almost impossible to distinguish from original sash windows, as details such as sash horns and traditional joints are integrated into the design. It's available in a broad selection of sizes and will accept glass up to 6.8mm to give additional insulation against loss of heat. The tilt-in option permits the sashes of each window to be hinged inwards on safety stays to facilitate cleaning.

Hinged casement window sash

Our single-pane hinged secondary glazing can be fitted to sash windows of any style including traditional and casement sash. The hinged units we offer are made with a secure multi-point locking system and can be supplied with keys lock handles. This will ensure that the glass panel is secured securely in place and is pulled close to the frame, forming a seal to minimize 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).

In contrast to horizontal sash windows which have movable sashes, slide horizontally within the frame, casement windows can open outwards and catch breezes from a variety of angles. They can also be opened from both the top and bottom to offer controlled ventilation. They can therefore improve airflow, and are a great alternative to traditional sash window.

They are commonly used in modern homes due to their small "sightlines" that permit an unobstructed view. However, they can also be installed into listed properties because they do not require transoms or mullions. They are also a good option for areas that are difficult to access because they can be opened by the flick of the handle.

The primary drawback to this type of window is that it can block off large openings and may restrict the use of certain window treatments. They can also be difficult to clean as they swing outward and may require regular maintenance and service.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be installed with a variety of methods and the cost will differ according to the thickness, type and materials you choose for your frame and panes. uPVC windows are usually the most affordable, followed by aluminium and then wooden double glazed sash windows window frames. Specialized glass can also add to the cost and include additional features like sound reduction or security.

Another factor that will influence the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complex the project will take longer and require more labour it will take. This is also true for heritage properties with more intricate sash windows that require expertise and knowledge.

Assessing the condition of windows in use is a good way to begin. You can get a precise estimate of the cost by having them inspected by an expert.

In general, secondary glazing has little effect on the look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing features thin and subtle frame lines. This lets you achieve thermal efficiency without compromising aesthetics.

A popular option for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which allows 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 releasing the catch on your secondary glazing panel and then lifting it vertically until you reach a predetermined point. This is great for windows that aren't used often and can be used to facilitate access for air cooling in bay windows. You can also use them to open the middle sash of a traditional Bay Window to create a symmetrical appearance.