The 10 Scariest Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows

Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are unable to build new double-glazed windows to their homes, either because of financial limitations or because they reside in listed buildings that prohibit any exterior changes.

Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative for sash window and can be installed in a variety of ways.

It consists of an extra pane of glass within the window frame, which prevents cold air from entering your home, while also providing insulation and noise reduction.

Fixed Inserts

If you're considering secondary glazing for your sash windows, there are several different styles to choose from. Each style offers its own set of benefits ranging from increased security to less condensation. Which is the most effective choice for you?

The basic premise of secondary glazing is fitting an additional pane of glass within the window frame. This provides an additional layer of insulation and noiseproofing your home, improving its energy efficiency.

It's not always practical to add double-glazed windows, particularly if you live in 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 a great alternative that can be put in with ease. It's also a popular choice for those who want to modernize their period property without the need to tear down the original windows in sash and replace them with contemporary ones.

There are a variety of different options for secondary glazing sash windows, each one of that can be adapted to fit your existing frame. The proprietary systems typically feature painted aluminium frames which are made to fit within the depth of a staff bead on an existing sash window which means that sills and shutters can be kept.

These can be fitted with a variety of installation methods, such as glazing clips or Velcro. These are more appealing than screw-fixed ones and are best suited for windows that don't need to be opened frequently. Alternately, you can opt for a fixed lift-out unit, which can be lifted and put back in place with ease to allow your windows to be opened.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal sliders are the most well-known method to enhance the appearance of your sash window. They are also quiet and suitable for older homes as well as conservation areas and listed properties. They can be fitted in the majority of cases without the need for external access since they operate from inside.

They can be operated with a hand, and they can be left open or partially closed for ventilation. They are very effective in eliminating draughts and offer the added benefit of filtering out harmful UV light. In summer they can be utilized with a flyscreen to keep insects out and mosquitoes.

Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems provide all the benefits of double glazing for your original window sash. It is comprised of PVC double sliding sash window locks track that runs across all four sides of cavity and a simple brush seal around each glass sheet and finger pull angle handle to act as a hand and reduce bowing. It comes in kits of 1m or 2m track and angle that can be stacked together to create larger spans.

Secondary glazing can have a significant impact on noise reduction, especially for rail, road and airport traffic. The inclusion of laminated glass or toughened glasses further enhances the acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and specialist glass, like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass, can achieve even more impressive levels of acoustic performance.

It can improve the efficiency of your home by keeping your house warmer for longer and reducing reliance on central heating. It is cheaper than replacing the original mock sash upvc windows window, and can be installed without removing the existing frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is a cost-effective choice that is often easier to manage than full window replacement. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's the ideal option for upgrading traditional windows with sash in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits, while maintaining the charm of older homes.

Vertical Sliders are specially designed for windows with sash openings where standard hinged panels don't work. They feature two secondary sashes that are secured with one above the other, inside an outer frame. They are supported by strong spring balances that allow for effortless movement. The system is available as a 'face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the window) to improve thermal performance, or a'reveal fixed version that comes with a glass to glass cavity within the window's original reveal, to ensure optimal acoustic performance.

They can be equipped with a variety of stops and handles to meet the needs of the homeowner, propping open either the bottom or top pane to allow for ventilation, or they can be fixed in a closed position for added security. They can be fitted with an insulating seal bristle to prevent drafts.

Imagine vertical sliders in 'Choices' secondary glazing comes with the same authentic wood detailing you'd expect from a vintage window treatment. It's also available in an array of colours to match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to distinguish from the original sash windows, since details such as sash horns and traditional joints are incorporated into the design. It's available in an extensive selection of sizes and will accept glass up to 6.8mm to give additional insulation against loss of heat. A tilt-in option is also available to allow the individual sashes of the frame to hinge into the safety stays to help with cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane hinged secondary glass can be fitted to sash windows of any style such as casement and traditional box sash. The hinged units we offer are made with a secure multi-point locking system and are available with keys lock handles. This combination ensures that the glass panel is securely secured and is pulled tightly to the outer frame, creating a seal to minimise loss of heat. Hinged windows are available either top or side-hung and can also be constructed with double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced performance in terms of acoustics and are available in 43dB (for 47dB), 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).

Casement windows can open up and let in breezes from different angles. This is unlike horizontal sash double glazing window, that has movable sashes inside the frame, which slide horizontally. They can be opened from the top and bottom for controlled airflow. They are therefore able to increase airflow and are a great alternative to traditional sash window.

They are popular in modern homes due to their small "sightlines" that allow for unobstructed view, but they can also be installed into listed properties because they don't require transoms or mullions. They're also a good option for those who live in areas that are difficult to reach because they can be opened by the flick of the handle.

This type of window can be a disadvantage because it could limit the use of certain window treatments. They can also be difficult to clean because they open outwards, and could require regular maintenance and service.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be installed using a variety of ways. The cost of installation will vary depending on your selection of materials, thickness, and type of glass. upvc sash windows are typically the least expensive followed by aluminium, and then wooden window frames. Specialised glass can also increase the price and also any extra features, such as sound reduction or security.

The complexity of the installation will also impact the cost. The more complicated the installation will take longer and require more labour it will take. This is especially true for heritage properties that have more complex sash window designs.

A good place to start is to evaluate the condition of your existing windows. You can get a reliable estimate of the cost by having them inspected by an expert.

In general, secondary glazing will have a minimal impact on the overall appearance of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing features thin and discrete frame lines. This lets you improve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.

A popular choice of secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which provides easy access to your existing sash windows for cleaning or ventilation. You can also get them with a tilt function, which is activated by unlocking the catch on the secondary glazing panel and lifting it vertically until you reach a predetermined point. This is ideal for windows that aren't frequently opened. It can also be used to allow air conditioning access to bay windows. You can also use them to open the middle sash on an old-fashioned sash bay window to create a more symmetrical look.