The 10 Scariest Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows

Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are not able to install new double glazing on their homes, either because of financial constraints or because they live in listed buildings that restrict any modifications to the exterior.

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

It is made up of an additional glass pane inside the window frame that prevents cold air from getting into your home, as well as providing insulation and noise reduction.

Fixed Inserts

If you're thinking about secondary glazing for your sash windows, there are several different styles to pick from. Each has its own number of advantages, ranging from increased security to less condensation. Which is the most effective option for you?

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

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

Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative in these circumstances. It can be installed relatively easily. It's a popular choice for those looking to renovate their old home without having to replace the original sash window a modern one.

There are a variety of different options for secondary glazing sash windows, each one of can be customized to fit your existing frame. Proprietary systems are generally constructed of painted aluminium frames that fit into the existing staff bead depth on the sash window. This allows shutters and sills to be kept.

These can be fitted using a variety of methods for installation, such as glazing clips or Velcro. They offer a more stylish alternative to screw-fixed units and are ideally suited to windows that don't need to be opened often. Alternatively, you can choose an adjustable lift-out unit that can be lifted out and then put back in place with relative ease to allow your windows to be opened.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most sought-after solution for improving existing windows with sash. They are also discrete and are ideal for historic homes as well as conservation areas and listed property. They can be installed in most cases without the need for access from outside since they operate from inside.

They can be operated with a hand and can be left open or partially closed for ventilation. They are very effective at eliminating draughts and offer the added benefit of filtering out 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 give all the benefits of double glazing for the original sash window. It comprises of PVC double sliding tracks on all four sides of the cavity and an easy bristle seal around each glass sheet, and angle handles that can be pulled by fingers to act as a handle and lessen bowing. It is available in kits with 1m or 2m of track and angle that can be stacked together to create bigger spans.

The acoustic benefits of second glazing are extremely significant and can dramatically enhance noise reduction from outside especially road, rail & airport traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass further enhances acoustic performance. Secondary glazing is a standard feature that can reduce outside noise by 52dB(Rw) and specialist glass like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can deliver even higher levels of acoustic performances.

It can increase the energy efficiency of your home by keeping your house warmer for longer, and reducing dependence on central heating. It's much less expensive than replacing your sash windows and is installed almost everywhere without the need to remove the existing window or door 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 an ideal solution to replace sash windows in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits while keeping the traditional look of older homes.

Vertical Sliders were specifically designed to be used in sash window applications in which hinged panels from the standard range would not be suitable. They come with two secondary sashes which are secured with one above the other, within an outer frame. They 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 improved thermal efficiency or a'reveal-fixed version that comes with an air cavity for glass inside the window reveal, to ensure optimal sound quality.

You can pick from a variety of stop-strips and handles to suit your preferences. They can be positioned in a closed position for additional security or propped open for ventilation on the glass's top or bottom. They can also be fitted with an insulation bristle to block draughts.

'Choices' Imagine vertical slider secondary glazing features the same authentic wood detailing you'd expect from an antique window treatment. It's also available in a variety of colors to match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to differentiate from the original sash windows as features like sash horns and traditional joints are integrated into the design. It's available in a wide range of sizes and accepts glass up to 6.8mm to give additional insulation against loss of heat. A tilt-in option is available allowing the sashes to be hinged into the safety stays to help with cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane secondary glass 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 manufactured with multi-point locking. This ensures that the glazed panel is secured and is pulled tightly to the frame, forming a sealing to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows can be side-hung or top-hung and can be double-glazed. Our double-glazed windows provide enhanced audio-acoustic performance. They are available in 43dB, 47dB and 51dB.

Casement windows can open outwards and catch breezes at various angles. This is unlike horizontal sash window, which has movable sashes within the frame that move horizontally. They can also be opened from both the top and bottom for controlled airflow. This is why they can improve airflow and offer an effective alternative to traditional sash windows.

They are commonly used in modern homes due to their slim "sightlines" that permit clear views, however they can also be installed in listed buildings since they don't require transoms or mullions. They're also a great choice for hard-to-reach areas since they can be opened with the turn of the handle.

The primary disadvantage of this kind of window is that they can block off large openings and limit the use of certain window treatments. They are difficult to clean since they swing outwards. They also may require regular maintenance and service.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be put in in a variety of ways and the cost will vary according to the type, thickness and the materials you select for your frame and panes. upvc sliding sash windows frames are the cheapest expensive followed by aluminium, and then wooden sash windows cost 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 impact the cost. The more complicated the installation is, the more time and labour it will take. This is also true for heritage properties that have more intricate designs for sash windows.

A good place to start is by assessing the condition of your current windows. You can get an accurate estimate of the cost by having them examined by a professional.

In general secondary glazing has a minimal effect on the appearance of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing is thin and discrete frame lines. This allows you to achieve thermal efficiency without compromising aesthetics.

The horizontal sliding secondary glazing is a popular choice because it permits easy access to the sash window for cleaning or ventilation. These windows also come with a tilt feature which is activated by unlocking the catch and lifting your Secondary glazing sash Window glazing panel vertically up to a certain level. This is a great option for windows that don't get opened often. It can also be used to allow air conditioning access in bay windows. You can even use them to open the middle wooden sash window on an old-fashioned sash bay window to give a more symmetrical appearance.