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 due to financial limitations or because they live in listed buildings that restrict any exterior modifications.

Secondary glazing for windows made of sash is an excellent alternative and can be installed using a variety of methods.

It's an additional glass pane inside the existing window frame which prevents cold air from entering your home, while offering insulation and noise reduction.

Fixed Inserts

There are many different types of secondary glazing available for Sash windows. Each style offers distinct advantages including increased security and reduced condensation. Which one is the best option for you?

The fundamental idea behind secondary glazing is to incorporate an extra pane of glass within the frame of your existing window. This adds a layer of insulation and noiseproofing your home, improving its energy efficiency.

It's not always feasible to add double-glazed windows, particularly if you live in a listed property or if you are bound by strict planning regulations that dictate what can and cannot be done to your exterior.

In these situations, secondary glazing is an excellent alternative that can be installed with ease. It's a popular option for those looking to modernize their home without having to replace the original sash window with an updated version.

There are many different systems available for secondary glazing sash windows, all of that can be adapted to fit your frame. Proprietary systems usually have painted aluminium frames which are designed to fit within the depth of a staff bead an existing sash window so that shutters and sills are still able to be used.

They can be fitted with a variety of installation methods, such as glazing clips or Velcro. These offer a more aesthetic solution than screw-fixed units, and are ideally suited to windows that do not need to be opened often. Alternatively, you can choose an adjustable lift-out unit, which can be lifted out and put back in place with relative ease to allow 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 suitable for older buildings, conservation areas & listed properties. In the majority of cases, they are installed without external access because they operate from inside.

They can be operated with a hand, and they can be left open or partially closed for ventilation. They are extremely effective in getting rid of draughts, and they also have the benefit of filtering out harmful UV light. They can be used in combination with a flyscreen to ward off mosquitoes and other insects during the summer months.

Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system offers all the advantages of modern double glazing for your classic sash windows. It is comprised of PVC double sliding track on all four sides of cavity, a simple brush seal around each sheet of glass and finger pull angle handle to act as a hand, reducing bowing. It is available in kits with 1m or 2m of track and angle that can be put together to create bigger spans.

The acoustic benefits of second glazing are extremely significant and it can significantly reduce noise from outside, particularly road, rail & airport traffic. The addition of laminated or toughened glass further enhances acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and special glass, like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can provide even higher levels of acoustic performance.

It can boost the efficiency of your house by keeping it warmer for longer. This will decrease the need for central heating. It's much less expensive than replacing your original sash windows, and can be installed in most cases 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 suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great option to replace windows with sash in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits while retaining the traditional look of older homes.

Vertical Sliders were specifically designed to be used in sash lock door handles window applications where hinged panels of the regular kind aren't suitable. They feature two secondary sashes which are secured to one sash above the other, within an outer frame. They are supported by strong spring balances to allow for easy movement. The system can be placed on the inside of an existing window for better thermal performance, or it can be equipped with an opening between the frame and the glass to maximize acoustic properties.

You can choose from a variety of handles and stop-strips to match your preferences. They can be fixed in a closed position for extra security or propped open for ventilation on the top or bottom glass. They can also be equipped with an insulating bristle seal to keep out drafts.

The 'Choices' Imagine vertical slider secondary glass comes with all the authentic wood detailing you'd expect in a period window treatment. It comes in a variety of colours that match your existing sash. It's nearly impossible to distinguish from the original sash windows, since details such as sash horns as well as traditional butt joints are integrated into the design. It is available in various sizes and can be fitted with glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to heat loss. The tilt-in feature allows the individual sashes of the window to be hinged inwards on safety stays to facilitate cleaning.

Hinged Casement

The single-pane hinged secondary glazing can be incorporated into windows in sash of any design including casement and traditional box sash. Our hinged units are constructed with secure multi-point locking and are available with a key lock handle. This will ensure that the glazed panel is locked securely in place and is pulled tight to the outer frame creating a seal designed to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows can be purchased as either top or side hung and can also be constructed as double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced acoustic performances and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) or 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).

Casement windows can open to the outside and catch breezes at different angles. This is in contrast to a horizontal sash window, which has movable sashes within the frame that move horizontally. They can also be opened from the top and bottom to offer controlled ventilation. They also improve airflow, and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash windows.

They are used in modern homes due to their narrow "sightlines" which allow for unobstructed view, but they can also be incorporated in listed homes since they don't require transoms and mullions. They can also be used in areas that are difficult to access since they can be opened simply by turning a handle.

The primary drawback to this type of window is that it can block off large openings and limit the use of certain window treatments. They can be difficult to clean since they open outward. They could also require regular maintenance and servicing.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be installed using a variety methods. The cost will vary depending on your preference of the materials, thickness, and kind of glass. upvc sash frames are the cheapest expensive, followed by aluminium and then wooden frames. Specialised glass, along with any other features such as security or sound reduction could also increase prices.

The complexity of the installation will also influence the cost. The more complex the project will take longer and require more labour it will take. This is also the case for older homes with more complex sash window sash replacement designs.

Analyzing the condition of windows that are in use is a good place to start. You can get a reliable estimate of the cost by having them checked by an expert.

Generally speaking, secondary glass will have minimal impact on the overall appearance of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing features thin and subtle frame lines. This allows you to get the most efficient heat without compromising aesthetics.

A popular choice of secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which gives an easy access to your windows that are already sash for cleaning or ventilation. These are also available with a tilt feature, which is activated by releasing the catch and raising the secondary glazing panel vertically to a specified degree. This is ideal for windows that aren't used frequently and can be used to facilitate access for air cooling in bay windows. You can also use them to open the middle sash of a traditional Bay Window to create a symmetrical appearance.