Keep An Eye On This: How Secondary Glazing Sash Windows Is Gaining Ground And What Can We Do About It

Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are not able to build new double-glazed windows to their homes, either because of financial constraints or because they reside in listed buildings which prohibit any exterior modifications.

Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative to sash windows and can be installed in a variety of ways.

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

Fixed Inserts

There are many different styles of secondary glazing that are available for Sash windows. Each style has distinct advantages ranging from increased security to reduced condensation. Which is the best choice for you?

The basic premise of secondary glazing is to install an additional glass pane within your window frame. This provides an additional layer of insulation and noiseproofing your home, improving its energy efficiency.

It's not always possible to add double-glazed windows, particularly if your house is an listed property or if you are bound by strict planning regulations that dictate what can and cannot be done to your exterior.

In these cases secondary glazing is an excellent alternative that can be set up with ease. It's a popular option for those who want to renovate their old home without the need to replace the original sash window with a modern one.

There are a variety of different options for secondary glazing sash windows, each of which is configurable to suit the frame you have. The proprietary systems typically feature painted aluminium frames that are designed to fit into the depth of a staff bead an existing sash window so that shutters and sills can still be retained.

These can be fitted with a variety of installation methods, such as 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. You can also choose a fixed lift-out unit that can be easily lifted out and then reinstalled to open your windows.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most sought-after solution for improving existing sash windows. They are also very discrete and are ideal for historic buildings, conservation areas, and listed properties. In the majority of instances, they can be installed without external access because they operate by the inside.

They can be operated manually and can be left open or partially closed for ventilation. They are effective in stopping draughts and also block harmful UV light. In the summer they can be utilized with a flyscreen in order to keep out insects and mosquitoes.

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

Secondary glazing can have a significant impact on noise reduction, specifically for rail, road and airport traffic. The inclusion of laminated glass or toughened glasses further improves the acoustic performance. Secondary glazing is a standard feature that can reduce outside noise to 52dB(Rw) and specialist glass like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can deliver even higher levels of acoustic performances.

It can boost the efficiency of your home by keeping your house warmer for longer and decreasing dependence on central heating. It's much less expensive than replacing your sash windows and can be installed without the need to take out the window or door frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is a cost-effective alternative that is usually more manageable than a complete window replacement. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas.  secondary double glazing for sash windows 's a great option to improve the look of traditional sash windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their originality.

Vertical Sliders were developed for sash window applications in which hinged panels from the standard range aren't suitable. They come with two secondary sashes that are secured with one above the other, inside an outer frame. They are supported by strong spring balances for ease of movement. The system is available as a face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the existing window) for increased thermal performance or a 'reveal-fixed version, which is fitted with an air cavity for glass, within the original window reveal, for optimum acoustic performance.

They can be equipped with a variety stops and handles to meet the needs of the homeowner by allowing the bottom or top pane to let in air, or they can be placed in an open position for additional security. They can be equipped with an insulation bristle to stop drafts.

Imagine a vertical slider with 'Choices' secondary glazing features the same authentic wood detailing you'd expect from a period window treatment and comes in an array of colours to match your existing sash. It's difficult to tell apart from the original sash window, with features like sash horns and traditional butt joints incorporated into the design. It's available in a wide selection of sizes and will accept glass up to 6.8mm to provide additional insulation against loss of heat. A tilt-in option is available that allows the individual sashes to hinge into the safety stays for easier 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 can be equipped with a keylock handle, and are manufactured with multi-point locking. This combination ensures the glazed panel is held securely in place, and it pulls close to the frame, forming a seal to reduce heat loss. Hinged windows are available either top or side hung and are also available as double-glazed. Double-glazed windows are a great way to improve audio-acoustic performance. They are available in 43dB, 47dB and 51dB.

Contrary to horizontal sash windows which have movable sashes that slide horizontally within the frame, casement windows can be opened outwards and let in breezes from various angles. They can also be opened from the top and bottom for controlled ventilation. Because of this, they can improve airflow and provide an effective alternative to traditional sash windows.

They are typically employed in modern homes since they have small "sightlines" and unobstructed views, but can also be used in listed homes because they do not require transoms or mullions. They can also be utilized in places that are difficult to reach since they can be opened simply by turning the handle.

This kind of window can be a problem as it may limit the use of certain window treatments. They can also be difficult to clean since they swing outward, and could require regular maintenance and servicing.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be installed by a variety of methods. The cost of installation will vary according to your choice of materials, thickness, and kind of glass. uPVC frames are the least expensive, followed by aluminium and then wooden frames. Specialised glass can also increase the price and also any additional features such as security or sound reduction.

The complexity of the installation will also influence the cost. The more complicated the installation will take longer and require more labor-intensive it will be. This is especially true for heritage properties with more intricate designs for sash windows.

Examining the condition of your existing windows is a good way to start. You can get a precise estimate of the cost by having them examined by a professional.

Generally speaking, secondary glazing will have little impact on the overall appearance of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing is slim and distinct frame lines. This lets you improve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.

The horizontal sliding secondary glazing option is a popular choice because it permits easy access to the sash window to clean or for ventilation. They also come with a tilt feature, that can be activated by releasing the catch and then lifting the secondary glazing panel vertically up to a certain level. This is ideal for windows that don't get frequently opened. It can also be used to permit air conditioning access in bay windows. You can even use them to open up the middle sash of a traditional sash bay window to give a more symmetrical appearance.