Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are unable to build new double-glazed windows to their homes, either because of financial constraints or because they reside in listed buildings that prohibit any exterior modifications.
Secondary glazing for sash windows is a good alternative that can be put in in various ways.
This product is a double-paned, insulated glass that fits inside the frame of your window. It provides insulation and noise reduction, in addition to preventing 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 you can pick from. Each style comes with its own set of benefits including increased security and reduced condensation. But which is the best option for you?
The fundamental idea behind secondary glazing is to incorporate an extra pane of glass inside the window frame. This adds an additional layer of insulation and soundproofing, which can significantly increase the efficiency of your home’s energy use.
It’s not always feasible to add double-glazed windows, particularly if your house is classified as a historic property or you are bound by strict planning regulations dictating what can and can’t be done to your exterior.
In these cases secondary glazing is a great alternative that can be set up with relative ease. It’s also a popular choice for people looking to update their home without having to tear 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 can be customized to fit your existing frame. Proprietary systems are generally constructed of painted aluminium frames that fit into the existing staff bead depth on windows with sash. This lets shutters and sills remain.
They can be equipped using a variety of methods for installation, like 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 often. You can also opt for an adjustable lift-out unit, which can be lifted 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 sought-after option for enhancing existing windows made of wooden sash windows near me. They are also discreet and are ideal for historic homes or conservation areas as well as listed property. In the majority of cases, they are installed without having access to the outside since they are operated from the 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 have the added benefit of blocking harmful UV light. They can be combined with a flyscreen to keep out mosquitoes and other insects during summer months.
Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems provide all the advantages of double glazing for your traditional window sash. It is comprised of PVC double sliding track on all four sides of the cavity with a brush seal around each sheet of glass and a finger pull angle handle to function as a hand and reduce bowing. It is available in kits comprising either 1m or 2m lengths of track and angle which can be butted together to make larger spans.
The acoustic advantages of secondary glazing are very important and can enhance noise reduction from outside especially road, rail & airport traffic. The addition of laminated or toughened glass further enhances acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing can reduce outside noise by 52dB(Rw), and specialist glass such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can deliver even higher levels of acoustic performance.
It can improve the energy efficiency of your home by keeping your house warmer for longer, and reducing dependence on central heating. It is cheaper than replacing the original sash window and can be installed without removing the existing frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective alternative that is usually less expensive than full window replacement. It’s also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It’s a great option to improve the look of traditional sash windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their originality.
Vertical Sliders were designed for sash window applications where regular hinged panels aren’t suitable. The system features two secondary sashes that are secured one above the other inside an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances to allow for ease of movement. The system is available as a face-fixed’ (installed to the inside of the window) to improve thermal efficiency or a’reveal-fixed version, which is fitted with a glass to glass cavity, within the original window reveal, to ensure optimal acoustic performance.
They can be fitted with a variety of stops and handles to suit the homeowner’s preferences, propping open either the top or bottom pane to allow for ventilation, or they can be secured in a closed position for added security. They can be fitted with an insulation bristle to stop draughts.
‘Choices’ Imagine vertical slider secondary glazing has all the timber-like details you’d expect from an antique window treatment. It’s available in a variety of colors to match your existing sash. It’s nearly impossible to distinguish from the original sash windows, since features like sash horns and traditional joints are included in the design. It comes in a variety of sizes and can accept glass up to 6.8mm for additional insulation against heat loss. The tilt-in feature allows the sashes of each window to be hinged upwards to make it easier for cleaning.
Hinged Casement
The single-pane hinged secondary glazing can be incorporated into windows made of sash windows repair in any style such as traditional and casement sash. Our hinged units are supplied with a keylock handle, and are manufactured with multi-point locking. This combination ensures the glazed panel is held securely in place and is pulled close to the frame, forming a seal to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows can be side-hung or top-hung, and they can also be double-glazed. Double-glazed windows provide better sound insulation and are available in 43dB (for 47dB), 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).
Casement windows are able open to the outside and catch breezes at different angles. This is different from a horizontal sash window, that has movable sashes inside the frame that slide horizontally. They can also be opened from both the top and bottom for controlled airflow. For this reason, they can improve airflow and are a viable alternative to traditional windows with sash.
They are commonly employed in modern homes since they offer small “sightlines” and unobstructed views. However, they can also be incorporated into listed homes because they do not require transoms or mullions. They can also be utilized in hard-to-reach places as they can be opened by turning the handle.
The primary drawback to this type of window is that it can block large openings and may restrict the use of certain window treatments. They are also difficult to clean because they open outwards, and may require regular maintenance and service.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be set up with a variety of methods and the price will vary depending on the type, thickness and the materials you select for your frames and panes. upvc sliding sash windows windows are typically the most affordable, followed by aluminium and finally wooden sash windows near me window frames. Specialized glass may also increase the cost and include additional features such as sound reduction or security.
Another factor that will influence the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complicated the installation will take longer and require more labor-intensive it will be. This is also the case for older homes that have more complex design of sash windows.
The best place to begin is to evaluate the condition of your existing windows. Having them surveyed by an experienced professional will give you a precise estimate of what the price might be.
In general, secondary glazing has little effect on the look of your home. This is thanks to the fact that the modern FINEO double-glazing has slim and discreet frame lines, which means you can get the most efficient thermal performance without compromising on aesthetics.
A popular option for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which provides easy access to existing sash window locks with key windows for cleaning or ventilation. These are also available with a tilt function, that can be activated by releasing the catch and lifting your secondary glazing panel vertically to a specified level. This is a great option for windows that don’t get frequently opened. It can also be used to allow air conditioning access to bay windows. They can be used to open the middle sash of a traditional sash Bay Window to create a more symmetrical appearance.