The 10 Scariest Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows

Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are not able to add new double glazing to their homes due to financial limitations or because they reside in listed buildings which prohibit any modifications to the exterior.

Secondary glazing is a great alternative to sash windows. It can be put in various ways.

It consists of an extra glass pane 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 several different styles you can pick from. Each has its own number of advantages, ranging from improved security to reduced condensation. Which is the best choice for you?

The basic idea behind secondary glazing is to install an additional glass pane into your existing window frame. This provides an additional layer of insulation and soundproofing, which can significantly improve your home's energy efficiency.

However it's not always feasible to install new sash windows double-glazed windows to your home, especially if you live in a listed building or are subject to strict regulations regarding planning which dictate what can and can't be done to your exterior.

Secondary glazing is a great alternative in these situations. It can be put in quite easily. It's a popular option for those looking to update their period home without the need to replace the original sash window an updated version.

There are many different systems available for secondary glazing sash windows, each one of which is configurable to suit the frame you have. The proprietary systems are typically comprised of painted aluminum frames that fit into the existing depth of the staff bead on a sash window. This allows sills and shutters to be retained.

They can be equipped using a variety of installation methods that include glazing clips and Velcro. These units are more attractive than screw-fixed ones and are ideal for windows that don't need to be opened frequently. You can also opt for a fixed lift-out unit that can be easily lifted out and then reinstalled to open your windows.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal Sliders provide excellent thermal insulation and are the most sought-after option for enhancing existing sash windows. They are also very discrete and ideal for historic buildings, conservation areas & listed properties. In the majority of cases, they are installed without access from outside because they operate by the inside.

They are simple to operate by hand and can be open wide or left partially open for ventilation. They are extremely effective in stopping draughts and also have the added benefit of removing harmful UV light. In the summer, they can be used with a flyscreen to keep insects out and mosquitoes.

Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system offers all the advantages of modern double glazing for your classic sash windows. It comprises of PVC double sliding tracks that run across all four sides of the cavity, a simple bristle seal around each glass sheet and finger pull angle handles that act as a handle and decrease bowing. It is available in kits of 1m or 2m lengths of track and angle which can be joined to make larger spans.

The acoustic advantages of secondary glazing are very important and can improve noise reduction from outside, particularly road, rail & airport traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass can further improve acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and special glass, like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass, can achieve higher levels of acoustic efficiency.

It can boost the energy efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer for longer and reducing reliance on central heating. It is much cheaper than replacing your old sash windows and is installed almost everywhere without the need to take out the existing window or door frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is a cost-effective option that is typically more manageable than a complete window replacement. It's suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's an ideal solution to upgrade windows with sash in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits while keeping the charm of older homes.

Vertical Sliders are specially designed for windows with sash openings where standard hinged panels 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 that allow for ease of movement. The system is available as a face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the window) for improved thermal performance or a 'reveal-fixed' version which is fitted with an air cavity for glass, within the original window reveal, to ensure optimal sound quality.

They can be fitted with a variety of handles and stop strips to meet the needs of the homeowner, propping open either the bottom or top pane to let in air or fixed in the closed position to provide security. They can also be equipped with an insulating bristle sealing device to stop drafts.

The 'Choices' Imagine vertical slider secondary glass features all the authentic wood detailing you'd expect to find in a period window. It comes in a range of colors that are compatible with your sash. It's almost impossible to differentiate from the original sash window with details such as sash horns and traditional butt joints incorporated into the design. It comes in a variety of sizes and can be fitted with glass up to 6.8mm to provide additional insulation against heat loss. A tilt-in option is also available allowing the sashes to be hinged 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 including casement and traditional box sash. The hinged units we offer can be equipped with a keylock handle and are made with multi-point locking. This combination ensures the glazed panel is held securely in place and is pulled tightly against the frame, forming a seal to minimize heat loss. Hinged windows can be top-hung or side-hung, and they can also be double-glazed. Double-glazed windows provide better performance in terms of acoustics and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) and 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).

Casement windows are able open outwards and catch breezes at various angles. This is unlike the horizontal sash window, that has movable sashes inside the frame that move horizontally. They can be opened both from the top and bottom to allow controlled ventilation. They also improve airflow and are a great alternative to traditional sash window.

They are used in modern homes due to their narrow "sightlines" that permit clear views, however they can also be incorporated in listed homes since they do not require transoms and mullions. They can also be utilized in areas that are difficult to access since they can be opened by turning the handle.

The primary drawback to this type of window is that they can block large openings, and could limit the use of certain window treatments. They can be difficult to clean, as they can swing outwards. They could also require regular maintenance and service.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be put in with a variety of methods and the price will vary depending on the type, thickness, and materials you select for your panes and frame. UPVC frames are the cheapest expensive, followed by aluminium and then wooden sash window frames. Specialised glass, along with any extra features such as security or sound reduction can increase the cost of windows.

The complexity of the installation will affect the cost. The more complex the project will take longer and require more labour it will take. This is also true for historic properties with more complex sash windows that require specialized knowledge and expertise.

A good place to start is to evaluate the condition of your existing windows. The survey conducted by an experienced professional will give you a precise idea of what the costs might be.

In general secondary glazing has a minimal effect on the look of your home. This is due to the fact that modern FINEO double glazing has slim and discrete frame lines, which means you can achieve thermal efficiency without compromising on aesthetics.

A very popular choice for secondary glazing sash window glazing is horizontal sliding, which provides easy access to your existing sash windows to clean or ventilation. They can also be purchased with a tilt function which is activated by unlocking the catch on your secondary glazing panel and then lifting it vertically to a preset point. This is ideal for windows that aren't frequently opened. It can be used to provide air conditioning access to bay windows. You can even use them to open up the middle sash of the traditional sash bay windows to create a more uniform look.