The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows
Secondary Glazing For timber sash window Windows
Many homeowners are unable add new double glazing to their homes, either because of financial constraints or because they reside in listed buildings that restrict any modifications to the exterior.
Secondary glazing is a great alternative to sash windows and can be put in various ways.
It's an additional pane of glass inside the window frame that prevents cold air from entering your home, while providing insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
There are many different styles of secondary glazing available for Sash windows. Each comes with its own set of benefits, from improved security to reduced condensation. Which is the most effective choice for you?
The principle behind secondary glazing is fitting an additional glass within the window frame. This adds a layer of insulation and noiseproofing to your home, increasing its energy efficiency.
However it's not always feasible to add new double-glazed windows to your property, especially if you live in a listed structure or are subject to strict regulations regarding planning that dictate what can and can't be done to your exterior.
Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative in these instances. It can be installed fairly easily. It's a popular option for those who wish to update their period home without the need to replace the original sash window an updated version.
There are many different options available for secondary glazing sash windows, each one of which is configurable to suit your existing frame. The proprietary systems are typically constructed of painted aluminium frames that fit into the existing staff bead depth on the sash window. This allows sills and shutters to be kept.
They can be equipped with different installation methods such as glazing clips or Velcro. These types of units look more attractive than screw-fixed units and are best suited for windows that don't need to be opened frequently. You can also opt for a fixed lift-out device that can be easily lifted out and then reinstalled to open your windows.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most popular solution for improving existing sash windows. They are also very discreet and are ideal for historic structures, conservation areas and listed properties. They can be fitted in the majority of cases without the need for access from outside as they are operated from inside.
They are simple to operate with a hand and can be opened wide or left partially open to allow for ventilation. They are very effective at getting rid of draughts, and have the added benefit of blocking harmful UV light. They can be used in combination with a flyscreen to keep out mosquitoes and other insects during the summer months.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system offers all the benefits of modern double glazing to your original sash windows. It consists of PVC double sliding tracks that run across all four sides of the cavity and an easy bristle seal around each glass sheet and finger pull angle handles that serve as handles and reduce bowing. It is available in kits comprising either 1m or 2m lengths of track and angle that can be joined to create larger spans.
The acoustic advantages of secondary glazing are very important and can enhance noise reduction from outside, especially railway, road and airport traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass further enhances the acoustic quality. Standard secondary glazing reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and special glass, like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can provide even more impressive levels of acoustic efficiency.
It can increase the energy efficiency of your home by keeping your house warmer for longer and reducing reliance on central heating. It is cheaper than replacing the original sash window, and can be installed without removing the frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective option that is usually more manageable than full window replacement. It is also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great option to improve the look of traditional sash and case window repairs windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their distinctive character.
Vertical Sliders were developed to be used in sash window applications where regular hinged panels are not suitable. They have two secondary sashes that are secured to one sash above the other, inside an outer frame. They are supported by strong spring balances that allow for effortless movement. The system can be placed on the inside of an existing window to ensure better thermal performance, or it can be equipped with an opening between the frame and the glass for optimum acoustic properties.
You can pick from a range of stop-strips and handles that match your preferences. They can be fixed in the closed position to provide additional security or propped open for ventilation on the glass's top or bottom. They can be fitted with an insulation bristle to stop drafts.
Imagine vertical sliders in 'Choices' secondary glazing features the same authentic wood detailing you'd expect from a period window treatment. It's also available in a variety of colors to match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to distinguish from the original sash window with details such as sash horns & traditional butt joints included in the design. It comes in a variety of sizes and can take glass up to 6.8mm for additional insulation against loss of heat. The tilt-in feature allows the sashes of each window to be hinged inwards on safety stays to facilitate cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane secondary glass can be positioned on sash windows of any design, including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units can be supplied with a keylock handle, and are manufactured with multi-point locking. This combination ensures that the glazed panel is secured and is pulled tightly to the outer frame, creating a seal to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows can be side-hung or top-hung and can be double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced performance in terms of acoustics and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) or 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).
Casement windows are able open to the outside and catch breezes from different angles. This is in contrast to a the horizontal sash window, which has movable sashes within the frame that move horizontally. They can also be opened from both the top and bottom to provide controlled airflow. They can therefore increase airflow and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash windows.
They are commonly used in modern homes because they have small "sightlines" and unobstructed views, but can also be fitted into listed homes due to the fact that they do not require transoms or mullions. They're also a great option for those who live in areas that are difficult to reach as they can be opened with the turn of a 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 since they open outwards, and could require regular maintenance and servicing.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be installed using a variety of ways. The cost will differ according to your preference of the materials such as thickness, thickness and kind of glass. UPVC windows are generally the least expensive followed by aluminium, and then wooden window frames. Specialised glass can also increase the price and include extra features, such as sound reduction or security.
Another factor that affects the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complex the project, the more time and labor will be required. This can also apply to historic properties with more complex sash windows, which require specialist knowledge and expertise.
Analyzing the condition of windows in use is a good way to start. A survey by a skilled professional will give you an accurate idea of what the costs might be.
In general secondary glazing has an insignificant impact on the appearance of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing is thin and subtle frame lines. This allows you to get the most efficient heat without compromising aesthetics.
The horizontal sliding secondary glazing option is a popular choice because it permits easy access to the existing sash window for cleaning or ventilation. It is also possible to get them with a tilt function which you can activate by unlocking the catch on the secondary glazing panel and then lifting it vertically to a set point. This is a great option for windows that don't open frequently and can be used to facilitate access for air conditioning in bay windows. You can also use them to open up the middle sash on the traditional sash bay windows to give a more symmetrical appearance.