Think You're Cut Out For Secondary Glazing Sash Windows? Check This Quiz
Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are not able to add double glazing to their house because of financial limitations or because the structure is listed and modifications to the exterior are forbidden.
Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative for sash window and can be put in various ways.
It's an additional pane of glass inside the existing window frame which stops cold air from entering your home, while offering insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
If you're thinking about secondary glazing for your sash windows there are many different styles you can pick from. Each style has distinct advantages that range from increased security to reduced condensation. But which is the best option for you?
The fundamental idea behind secondary glazing is to fit an additional glass pane within the frame of your existing window. This adds a layer of insulation and noiseproofing to your home, improving its energy efficiency.
However it's not always possible to install new double-glazed windows to your property particularly if you reside in a listed building or are subject to strict planning regulations that define what can and can't be done to your exterior.
Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative in these situations. It can be set up fairly easily. It's a popular choice for those who want to update their period home without the need to replace the original sash window a modern one.
There are a number of different options for secondary glazing sash windows, all of that can be adapted to fit your frame. Proprietary systems usually have painted aluminium frames that are designed to fit within the depth of a staff bead on an existing sash window, which means that sills and shutters can still be retained.
They can be installed with a variety of mounting methods such as glazing clips and Velcro. These types of units look more attractive than screw-fixed ones and are ideally suited to windows that do not require to be opened often. Alternately, you can opt for an adjustable 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 are the most sought-after way to improve existing sash window. They are also very discreet and ideal for historic structures, conservation areas and listed properties. They can be fitted with the need for access from outside as they are operated from inside.
They can be operated manually and can be left open or partially opened to allow ventilation. They are effective at keeping out draughts, and also block harmful UV light. In summer, they can be used with a flyscreen in order to keep insects out and mosquitoes.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system provides all the benefits of modern double glazing to your original windows made of sash. It is comprised of PVC double sliding track that runs across all four sides of cavity, a simple brush seal around each sheet of glass and a handle for a finger pull angle to function 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 make larger spans.
The acoustic benefits of second glazing are significant and can dramatically improve noise reduction from outside, particularly railway, road and airport traffic. The inclusion of laminated glass or toughened glasses enhances the acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing can reduce outside noise by 52dB(Rw) and specialized glass like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can achieve even higher levels of acoustic performances.
It can boost the efficiency of your home by keeping it warm for longer. This will reduce the need for central heating. It's much less expensive than replacing your original 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 choice that is usually more manageable than a complete window replacement. It's also 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 hinged panels of the regular kind aren't suitable. The system features two secondary sashes, which are fixed one above the other within an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances to allow for easy movement. The system can be installed on the inside of an existing window to ensure greater thermal efficiency, or it can be fitted with a space between the glass and the frame to ensure the best acoustic performance.
They can be fitted with a variety of handles and stop strips to accommodate the preferences of the homeowner and can be used to prop open the bottom or top pane to let in air, or they can be placed in a closed position for added security. They can also be equipped with an insulating bristle seal to stop draughts.
Imagine vertical sliders in 'Choices' secondary glazing has all the authentic timber detailing you'd expect from an antique window treatment. It's available in an array of colours to match your existing sash. It is almost impossible to differentiate from the original sash windows, since details such as sash horns and traditional butt joints are included in the design. It is available in various sizes and can take glass up to 6.8mm for additional insulation against loss of heat. The tilt-in option allows the individual sashes of the window to be hinged inwards on safety stays to facilitate 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 are manufactured with secure multi-point locking and can be supplied with a key lock handle. This combination ensures the glazed panel is held securely in place and pulls tightly against the frame, creating a seal to minimize heat loss. repairmywindowsanddoors are available as either side or top hung and can also be made as double-glazed. Double-glazed windows are a great way to improve acoustic performance and are available in 43dB, 47dB or 51dB.
Casement windows are able open to the outside and catch breezes from different angles. This is unlike horizontal sash window, with movable sashes in the frame, which slide horizontally. They can be opened from the top and bottom to allow controlled ventilation. They also increase airflow and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash window.
They are popular in modern homes due to their small "sightlines" which allow for unobstructed view, but they can also be installed into listed properties because they do not require transoms and mullions. They can also be used in hard-to-reach places as they can be opened simply by turning the handle.
This kind of window can be a disadvantage because it could limit the use of certain window treatments. They can also be difficult to clean as they swing outward, and could require regular maintenance and service.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be installed in a variety of ways and the cost will differ according to the type, thickness, and materials you choose for your frames and panes. UPVC frames are the cheapest expensive, followed by aluminium and wooden frames. Specialized glass, in addition to any additional features like security or sound reduction may also raise prices.
Another factor that affects the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complex the project is, the more time and labor it will require. This is also true for older homes with more complex sash windows, which require expertise and knowledge.
Examining the condition of your existing windows is a good place to start. You can get a precise estimate of the cost by having them inspected by an expert.
Generally speaking, secondary glass will have minimal impact on the overall appearance of your home. This is thanks to the fact that modern FINEO double glazing has slim and discrete frames, meaning you can attain thermal efficiency without compromising on aesthetics.
The horizontal sliding secondary glazing is popular because it allows easy access to the sash window for cleaning or ventilation. It is also possible to get them with a tilt feature, which you can activate by releasing the catch on the secondary glazing panel and then lifting it vertically until you reach a predetermined point. This is ideal for windows that aren't opened frequently and can be used to allow access to air cooling in bay windows. It is also possible to use them to open up the middle sash of the traditional sash bay windows to create a more uniform look.