The 10 Most Terrifying 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 structure is listed and any exterior modifications are prohibited.
Secondary glazing for windows made of sash is an excellent alternative and can be installed with a variety of ways.
It consists of an extra pane of glass within the window frame that blocks cold air from getting into your home, while also offering insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
If you're considering secondary glazing for your sash windows there are many different styles to choose from. Each offers a unique set of advantages, from improved security to reduced condensation. Which is the best choice for you?
The principle behind secondary glazing is to fit an extra pane of glass inside the window frame. This creates an extra layer of soundproofing and insulation which can greatly improve your home's energy efficiency.
However it's not always feasible to add new double-glazed windows to your property particularly if you live in a listed structure or are subject to strict regulations regarding planning that dictate what can and cannot be done to your exterior.
In these instances, secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative that can be installed with relative ease. It's a popular option for those looking to renovate their old home without the need to replace the original sash window with a more modern version.
There are many different options available for secondary glazing sash windows, each of can be customized to fit the frame you have. The proprietary systems typically feature painted aluminium frames which are made to fit within the depth of a staff bead an existing sash window, which means that sills and shutters can be kept.
These can be fitted with different installation methods like glazing clips or Velcro. These are more appealing than screw-fixed ones and are ideally suited to windows that don't need to be opened frequently. Alternatively, you can choose a fixed lift out unit that can be lifted out and put back in its place with ease, allowing your windows to be opened.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most well-known solution for improving existing windows with sash. They are also very discrete and are ideal for historic buildings, conservation areas & listed properties. In most cases, they can be installed without having access to the outside since they operate by the inside.
They can be operated manually and can be left open or partially opened to allow ventilation. They are effective in keeping out draughts, and also filter harmful UV light. In summer they can be paired with a flyscreen in order to keep out insects and mosquitoes.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the benefits of modern double glazing to your original windows made of sash. It comprises of PVC double sliding tracks that run across all four sides of the cavity with a simple bristle seal around each glass sheet, and angle handles that can be pulled by fingers to act as a handle and decrease bowing. It comes in kits of 1m or 2m track and angle that can be stacked together to create bigger spans.
The acoustic advantages of secondary glazing are significant and can dramatically reduce noise from outside especially the airport, rail and road traffic. The addition of laminated or toughened glass can further improve acoustic performance. Secondary glazing that is standard can reduce outside noise by 52dB(Rw) and specialized glass such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can achieve even higher levels of acoustic performance.
It can boost the efficiency of your house by keeping it warmer longer. This will reduce the use of central heating. It is much cheaper than replacing your sash double glazing windows and can be installed in most cases without the need to remove the window or door frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective alternative that is usually more manageable than a complete window replacement sash windows cost. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's an excellent way to improve the look of traditional sash windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their distinctive character.
Vertical Sliders were designed to be used in sash window applications where hinged panels of the regular kind are not suitable. They feature two secondary sashes which are secured, one above the other, within an outer frame and are supported by sturdy spring balances to allow for easy movement. The system can be purchased as a 'face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the existing window) to improve thermal performance, or a'reveal fixed' version which comes with a glass-to-glass cavity within the window's original reveal, for optimum sound quality.
You can choose from a variety of stop-strips and handles to match your preferences. They can be positioned in the closed position for extra security or propped open to allow ventilation on the top or bottom glass. They can also be fitted with an insulation bristle to stop draughts.
Imagine a vertical slider with 'Choices' secondary glazing comes with all the authentic timber sash windows detailing you'd expect from a vintage window treatment. It's available in a variety of colors to match your existing sash. It's difficult to tell apart from the original sash and case window repairs window with details such as the sash's horns and traditional butt joints included in the design. It comes in a variety of sizes and can take glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to loss of heat. The tilt-in option permits the sashes of each window to be hinged upwards on safety stays for easier cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane hinged secondary glazing can be fitted to windows made of sash in any style such as casement and traditional box sash. Our hinged units are supplied 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 tight to the outer frame, creating a seal to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows are available 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.
Casement windows can open up and let in breezes from different angles. This is different from a the horizontal sash window restoration window that has movable sashes inside the frame that slide horizontally. They can be opened from the top and bottom to allow controlled airflow. This is why they can help improve airflow and offer an effective alternative to traditional windows with sash.
They are commonly used in modern homes due to their small "sightlines" which allow for unobstructed view, but they can also be put in listed buildings since they do not require mullions and transoms. They are also a good option for areas that are difficult to access because they can be opened with the flick of a handle.
The primary disadvantage of this type of window is that it could block off large openings and limit the use of certain window treatments. They can be difficult to clean, as they open outwards. They could also require regular maintenance and servicing.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be set up using a variety ways and the cost will differ according to the type, thickness and materials you choose for your panes and frame. Upvc frames are the most expensive, followed by aluminium and then wooden frames. Specialised glass, along with any additional features like security or sound reduction could increase the cost of windows.
Another factor that affects the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complicated the project, the more time and labor will be required. This is also true for heritage properties with more complex sash windows that require expertise and knowledge.
The best way to start is by assessing the condition of your existing windows. You can get an accurate estimate of the cost by having them inspected by professionals.
Generally speaking, secondary glazing will have minimal impact on the overall appearance of your home. This is thanks to the fact that modern FINEO double glazing is slim and discrete frame lines, so you can achieve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.
The horizontal sliding secondary glazing is popular because it allows easy access to the sash window for cleaning or ventilation. These windows also come with a tilt function, which is activated by releasing the catch and lifting your secondary glazing panel vertically up to a certain point. 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.