Watch Out: How Secondary Glazing Sash Windows Is Taking Over And What To Do About It
Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are unable to install new double glazing on their homes due to financial constraints or because they reside in listed buildings which prohibit any modifications to the exterior.
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 glass pane inside the window frame, which blocks cold air from getting into your home, while providing insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
There are many different types of secondary glazing that are available for sash windows. Each style comes with distinct advantages including increased security and reduced condensation. Which is the most effective option for you?
The basic premise of secondary glazing is fitting an additional glass inside your existing window frame. This creates an extra layer of insulation and soundproofing, which can significantly improve your home's energy efficiency.
It's not always feasible to add double-glazed windows, especially if your home is a listed property or if you are bound by strict planning regulations dictating what can and cannot be done with your exterior.
In these cases, secondary glazing is an excellent alternative that can be set up easily. It's a popular choice for those who wish to update their period home without the need to replace the original sash window with a more modern version.
There are a number of different systems available for secondary glazing sash windows, each of that can be adapted to fit the frame you have. Proprietary systems are generally made of painted aluminum frames that fit the existing depth of the staff bead on a sash window. This allows sills and shutters to remain.
These can be fitted with a variety of installation methods, such as glazing clips or Velcro. They offer a more stylish solution than screw-fixed units, and are ideally suited to windows that aren't required to be opened regularly. You can also opt for an adjustable lift-out unit, which can be lifted and put back in its place with ease, allowing your windows to be opened.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders provide excellent thermal insulation and are the most popular option for enhancing existing sash windows. They are also extremely discreet and are ideal for historic structures, conservation areas and listed properties. In most cases, they are installed without having access to the outside since they are operated by the inside.
They are simple to operate using a hand, and can be opened wide or left partially open for ventilation. They are very effective in stopping draughts and also offer the added benefit of blocking harmful UV light. In the summer, they can be used with a flyscreen in order to keep out insects and mosquitoes.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the advantages of modern double glazing to your traditional sash windows. It consists of PVC double sliding tracks on the four sides of the cavity, an easy bristle seal around each glass sheet, and finger pull angle handles to serve as handles and reduce bowing. It is available in kits of 1m or 2m lengths of track and angle which can be butted together to create larger spans.
The acoustic benefits of secondary glazing are important and can improve noise reduction from outside, particularly road, rail & airport traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass further enhances acoustic performance. Secondary glazing that is standard 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 improve the energy efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer for longer, and reducing dependence on central heating. It is cheaper than replacing the original sash window and can be installed without having to remove the frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective choice that is typically simpler to manage than a full window replacement. It's suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's an ideal solution for upgrading traditional windows made of sash in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits while keeping the charm of older homes.
Vertical Sliders were specifically designed for sash window applications where hinged panels of the regular kind aren't suitable. They have two secondary sashes which are secured, one above the other, within an outer frame and are supported by sturdy spring balances that allow for effortless movement. The system is available as a 'face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the window) for increased thermal efficiency or a'reveal-fixed' version which comes with a glass to glass cavity, within the original window reveal, to ensure optimal audio-acoustic performance.
They can be fitted with a variety of handles and stop strips to accommodate the preferences of the homeowner, propping open either the bottom or top pane for ventilation, or they can be secured in the closed position to provide security. They can also be equipped with an insulating bristle seal that can stop draughts.
The 'Choices' vertical slider secondary glass comes with all the authentic wood detailing you'd expect to find in a window covering from the past. It is available in a variety of colours that match your existing sash. It's difficult to distinguish from the original sash window, with details such as the sash's horns and traditional butt joints being incorporated into the design. It comes in a variety of sizes and can accept glass up to 6.8mm to provide additional insulation against heat loss. The tilt-in feature allows the individual sashes of the window to be hinged upwards to make it easier for cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane secondary glazing is able to be installed on sash windows in any design, including traditional box sash and casement. The hinged units we offer are made with secure multi-point locking and are available with keys and a handle for the lock. This will ensure that the glazed panel is locked in place and is pulled tightly against the frame, forming a seal to reduce heat loss. Hinged windows can be top-hung or side-hung and can be double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced sound insulation and are available in 43dB, 47dB and 51dB.
Casement windows are able to open up and let in breezes at various angles. This is unlike the horizontal sash window which has movable sashes within the frame, which slide horizontally. They can be opened from the top and bottom for controlled ventilation. They are therefore able to increase airflow and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash windows.
They are often utilized in modern homes as they offer a few "sightlines" and unobstructed views. However, they can also be fitted into listed properties because they don't require mullions or transoms. They're also a great option for areas that are difficult to access since they can be opened by the twist of the handle.
This kind of window can be a problem as it could limit the use of certain window coverings. They can be difficult to clean since they open outwards. sash window repairs near me may require regular maintenance and care.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be put in place using a variety of ways. The cost of installation will vary according to your choice of materials, thickness, and kind of glass. uPVC windows are usually the least expensive followed by aluminium and finally wooden window frames. Specialized glass can also add to the cost and also any additional features like sound reduction or security.
The complexity of the installation will impact the cost. The more complex the project, the longer and more labor it will require. This also applies to heritage properties with more intricate sash windows that require specialist knowledge and expertise.
Assessing the condition of windows in use is a good way to start. You can get a reliable estimate of the cost by having them inspected by an expert.
Generally speaking, secondary glazing will have little impact on the overall appearance of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing has slim and distinct frame lines. This lets you achieve thermal efficiency without compromising aesthetics.
The horizontal sliding secondary glazing is popular because it allows easy access to the sash window for cleaning or ventilation. They can also be purchased with a tilt feature, which you can activate by unlocking the catch on your secondary glazing panel and then lifting it vertically to a preset point. This is a great option for windows that don't get opened often. It can also be used to allow air conditioning access to bay windows. You can also use them to open up the middle sash on an old-fashioned sash bay window to create a more uniform look.