The 10 Scariest Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows

Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are unable to add new double glazing to their homes, either because of financial constraints or because they reside in listed buildings which prohibit any exterior changes.

Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative to sash windows. It can be installed in a variety of ways.

This product is a double-paned, insulated glass that fits inside the window frame you already have. It is insulated and provides noise reduction, while blocking cold air from entering the home.

Fixed Inserts

If you're thinking of secondary glazing for your sash windows, there are a variety of styles to pick from. Each comes with its own set of advantages, from increased security to less condensation. Which is the best choice for you?

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

However it's not always feasible to add double-glazed windows for your home particularly if you live in a listed structure or are subject to strict planning regulations that define what can and cannot be done to your exterior.

In these cases secondary glazing is a great alternative that can be set up with ease. It's also a popular choice for those looking to upgrade their period property without having to take down the original windows with sash and replace them with contemporary ones.

There are a variety of different options available for secondary glazing sash windows, each one of which is configurable to suit the frame you have. Proprietary systems usually have 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 are still able to be used.

These can be fitted using a variety of methods for installation, like glazing clips or Velcro. These types of units look more attractive than screw-fixed ones and are ideally suited to windows that do not need to be opened often. You can also select an unfixed lift-out unit that can be easily lifted out and reinstalled to allow you to open your windows.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal sliders are the most well-known method to enhance the appearance of your windows. They are also extremely discreet and are ideal for historic buildings, conservation areas & listed properties. They can be fitted with the need for access from outside as they are operated from inside.

They can be operated manually and can be left open or partially closed for ventilation. They are effective in stopping draughts and also block harmful UV light. They can be combined with a flyscreen to keep out mosquitoes and other insects during summer months.

Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems give all the advantages of double glazing for your traditional window sash. It is comprised of PVC double sliding track on all four sides of cavity with a brush seal around each glass sheet and a handle for a finger pull angle to act as a hand and decrease bowing. It is available in kits of either 1m or 2m lengths of track and angle which can be joined to create larger spans.

Secondary glazing can have a significant impact on noise reduction, particularly for rail, road and airport traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass can further improve acoustic performance. Secondary glazing that is standard 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 improve the efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer for longer and decreasing dependence on central heating. It's much less expensive than replacing your sash windows and can be installed almost everywhere without the need to take out the window or door frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is an affordable option that is typically simpler to manage than a full window replacement. It is also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great option to replace windows with box sash window in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits while retaining the traditional look 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, one over the other, within an outer frame and are supported by strong spring balances that allow for effortless movement. The system can be placed on the inside of an existing window for better thermal performance, or it can be equipped with a space between the glass and the frame to maximize acoustic properties.

You can choose from a variety of handles and stop-strips to match your preferences. They can be fixed in the closed position to provide additional security, or propped open to allow ventilation on the glass's top or bottom. They can also be fitted with an insulating bristle sealing device to prevent draughts.

Imagine vertical sliders in 'Choices' secondary glazing features all the timber-like details you'd expect from an antique window treatment and comes in a variety of colors to match your existing sash. It's nearly impossible to tell apart from the original sash window with features like the sash's horns and traditional butt joints included in the design. It is available in many 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 to make it easier for cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane hinged secondary glass can be fitted to windows made of wooden sash windows in any style including traditional and casement sash. Our hinged units are manufactured with secure multi-point locking and are available with keys lock handles. This will ensure that the glazed panel is held securely in place, and it pulls close to the frame creating a seal designed to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows are available as either side or top hung and can also be made by double-glazing. Double-glazed windows are a great way to improve acoustic performance and are available in 43dB,47dB or 51dB.

Casement windows are able to open outwards and catch breezes at different angles. This is different from a the horizontal sash window with movable sashes in the frame that move horizontally. They can also be opened from the top and bottom for controlled ventilation. They are therefore able to improve airflow, and are a great alternative to traditional sash window.

They are used in modern homes due to their small "sightlines" which allow for an unobstructed view. However, they can also be installed in listed buildings since they don't require mullions and transoms. They can also be used in hard-to-reach places as they are easily opened by turning a handle.

The primary disadvantage of this type of window is that it can block off large openings and limit the use of certain window treatments. They are also difficult to clean as they swing outward, and may 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 thickness, type and materials you select for your panes and frame. UPVC windows are generally the most affordable followed by aluminium, and then wooden double glazed sash windows window frames. Specialised glass can also increase the price and include additional features like security or noise reduction.

The complexity of the installation will also impact the cost. The more complicated the project will take longer and require more labor it will require. This is especially the case for older homes with more intricate design of sash windows.

Assessing the condition of existing windows is a good place to start. Having them surveyed by an experienced professional will give you an accurate estimate of what the cost might be.

Generally speaking, secondary glass will have minimal impact on the overall look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing has thin and subtle frame lines. This lets you achieve thermal efficiency without compromising aesthetics.

A very popular choice for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which gives easy access to existing flush sash windows windows to clean or ventilation. They can also be purchased with a tilt function, which is activated by unlocking the catch on the secondary glazing panel and then lifting it vertically to a set point. This is perfect for windows that don't get opened often. It can be used to provide air conditioning access to bay windows. You can also use them to open the middle sash of a traditional Bay Window to create a symmetrical appearance.