Secondary Glazing Sash Windows Explained In Less Than 140 Characters
Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are unable add double glazing to their homes, either due to financial constraints or because the structure is listed and exterior modifications are prohibited.
Secondary glazing for windows with sash is a great alternative that can be put in in various ways.
This is a double-paned window that can be placed inside the frame of your window. It is insulated and provides noise reduction, as well as preventing cold air from entering the home.
Fixed Inserts
If you're considering secondary glazing for your sash windows, there are a variety of styles to choose from. Each offers a unique set of advantages, from improved security to reduced condensation. Which is the most effective option for you?
The basic idea behind secondary glazing is to fit an additional glass pane within the frame of your existing window. This provides an additional layer of insulation and soundproofing, which can dramatically improve the energy efficiency of your home.
It's not always feasible to install double-glazed windows especially if your home is an listed property or you are bound by strict planning regulations that dictate what can and cannot be done to your exterior.
In these cases, secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative that can be set up easily. It's a popular option for those who wish to modernize their home without the need to replace the original sash window with an updated version.
There are a number of different systems available for secondary glazing sash windows, each of which is configurable to suit the frame you have. Proprietary systems are generally constructed of painted aluminum frames that fit into the existing bead depth on a sash window. This allows shutters and sills to be retained.
They can be installed with a variety of mounting methods that include glazing clips and Velcro. These offer a more aesthetic alternative to screw-fixed units and are especially suited for windows that do not need to be opened regularly. You can also choose a fixed lift-out device that can be easily removed and reinstalled to open your windows.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most well-known solution for improving existing sash windows. They are also discrete and are ideal for historic homes as well as conservation areas and listed property. In most cases, they are installed without external access because they operate by the inside.
They are simple to operate with a hand and can be open wide or left partially open for ventilation. They are effective at preventing draughts, and they also filter harmful UV light. They can be used in combination with a flyscreen to ward off mosquitoes and other insects during summer months.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the advantages of modern double glazing to your traditional sash windows. It consists of PVC double sliding track on all four sides of cavity, a simple brush seal around each sheet of glass and a handle for a finger pull angle to act as a hand, reducing bowing. It is available in kits comprising either 1m or 2m lengths of track and an angle, which can be butted together to create larger spans.
Secondary glazing can have a significant impact on noise reduction, especially for road, rail and airport traffic. The addition of laminated or toughened glass further enhances the acoustic quality. Standard secondary glazing reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and specialist glass, such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass, can achieve even higher levels of acoustic performance.
It can boost the energy efficiency of your home by keeping your house warmer for longer and reducing reliance on central heating. It is less expensive than replacing your sash windows, and can be installed without the need to remove the existing window or door frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective option that is often simpler to manage than a full window replacement. It is 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 originality.
Vertical Sliders were designed for sash window applications in which hinged panels from the standard range aren't suitable. The system has two secondary sashes, which are fixed one above the other within an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances to allow for ease of 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 that is fitted with a glass-to-glass cavity within the window's original reveal, for optimal audio-acoustic performance.
You can choose from a variety of handles and stop-strips to meet your needs. They can be put in a closed position for additional security, or propped open to allow ventilation on the top or bottom glass. They can also be equipped with an insulating bristle seal that can prevent draughts.
'Choices’ Imagine vertical slider secondary glass has the same authentic wood details you'd expect to find in a period window treatment. It is available in a variety of colours that will match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to tell apart from the original sash window, with details such as sash horns and traditional butt joints incorporated into the design. It's available in a broad variety of sizes and can accept glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to prevent loss of heat. The tilt-in feature allows the individual sashes of the window to be hinged upwards on safety stays to facilitate cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane hinged secondary glazing can be fitted to sash windows of any style including traditional and casement sash. Our hinged units can be supplied with a keylock handle, and are manufactured with multi-point locking. This combination ensures that the glazed panel is securely locked in place and is pulled tightly to the outer frame, forming a sealing to reduce loss of heat. Hinged windows can be purchased as either top or side hung and can also be constructed as double-glazed. Double-glazed windows are a great way to improve sound insulation and are available in 43dB, 47dB and 51dB.
Casement windows are able to open up and let in breezes at different angles. This is in contrast to a the horizontal sash window, that has movable sashes inside the frame, which slide horizontally. They can be opened both from the top and bottom to allow controlled airflow. This is why they can help improve airflow and are a viable alternative to traditional windows with sash.
They are often utilized in modern homes as they have small "sightlines" and unobstructed views, but can also be incorporated into listed homes due to the fact that they don't require transoms or mullions. They can also be utilized in areas that are difficult to access since they are easily opened by turning a handle.
The primary disadvantage of this type of window is that they can block off large openings and limit the use of certain window treatments. They are also difficult to clean since they open outwards, and may require regular maintenance and servicing.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be put in in a variety of ways and the price will vary depending on the thickness, type and the materials you select for your panes and frame. UPVC windows are typically the least expensive followed by aluminium, and then wooden window frames. Specialised glass, along with any extra features such as security or sound reduction can also increase prices.
The complexity of the installation will impact the cost. The more complicated the project will take longer and require more labor it will require. This is also true for historic properties with more complex sash windows, which require expertise and knowledge.
Examining learn the facts here now of your existing windows is a good way to start. You can get a reliable estimate of the cost by having them examined by a professional.
Generally speaking, secondary glass will have little impact on the overall look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing features thin and discrete frame lines. This lets you get the most efficient heat without compromising aesthetics.
A popular option for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which allows an easy access to your existing sash windows for cleaning or ventilation. They also come with a tilt feature, which is activated by opening the catch and lifting your secondary glazing panel vertically to a specified level. This is great for windows that aren't used often and can be used to allow access to air conditioning in bay windows. You can even use them to open the middle sash on an old-fashioned sash bay window to create a more symmetrical look.