The 10 Scariest Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows

Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are not able to add double glazing to their home, either due to financial constraints or because the structure is listed and exterior modifications are prohibited.

Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative to sash windows. It can be installed several ways.

It's an additional pane of glass within the window frame that stops cold air from entering your home, while providing insulation and noise reduction.

Fixed Inserts

If you're considering secondary glazing for your sash windows, there are several different styles to pick from. Each style has distinct advantages including increased security and less condensation. But which is the best choice for you?

The basic premise of secondary glazing is fitting an additional glass inside your existing window frame. This provides an additional layer of soundproofing and insulation which can greatly improve your home's energy efficiency.

However it's not always possible to add new double-glazed windows to your property particularly if you reside in a listed building or are subject to strict planning regulations that define what can and cannot be done to your exterior.

In these situations, secondary glazing is an excellent alternative that can be put in with ease. It's also a popular option for people looking to update their home without the need to tear down the original sash windows and replace them with new ones.

There are a variety of different options for secondary glazing sash windows, each one of can be customized to fit your existing frame. The proprietary systems are typically comprised of painted aluminium frames that fit into the existing bead depth on a sash window. This lets shutters and sills be kept.

They can be equipped with a variety of installation methods, including glazing clips and Velcro. These units are more attractive than screw-fixed units and are ideally suited to windows that do not need to be opened frequently. You can also choose an unfixed lift-out unit that can be easily lifted out and reinstalled to open your windows.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal sliders are the most well-known method to enhance the appearance of your windows. They are also discrete and ideal for historic properties as well as conservation areas and listed properties. In most instances, they can be installed without access from outside because they operate from inside.

They can be operated with a hand and can be left open or partially opened to allow ventilation. They are very effective in getting rid of draughts, and they also have the benefit of filtering out harmful UV light. In the summer, they can be used with a flyscreen to keep out insects and mosquitoes.

Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems give all the benefits of double glazing for your traditional Sash window. It consists of PVC double sliding track on all four sides of the cavity and a simple brush seal around each glass sheet and a handle for a finger pull angle to function as a hand and decrease bowing. It is available in kits of either 1m or 2m lengths of track and angle that can be butted together to make larger spans.

The acoustic advantages of secondary glazing are extremely significant and can dramatically reduce noise from outside especially road, rail & airport traffic. The addition of laminated glass or toughened glasses enhances the acoustic performance. Secondary glazing that is standard can reduce outside noise by 52dB(Rw), and specialist glass such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can deliver even higher levels of acoustic performances.

It can improve the energy efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer for longer. This can reduce the use of central heating. It is much cheaper than replacing your sash windows and can be installed in most cases without the need to remove the window or door frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is a cost-effective alternative that is usually more manageable than full window replacement. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's an excellent way to improve the look of traditional sash windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their character.

Vertical Sliders are specially designed for mock sash upvc windows windows where regular hinged panels aren't appropriate. The system features two secondary sashes that are secured one above the other inside an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances, allowing for effortless movement. The system can be purchased as a 'face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the existing window) for increased thermal performance or a 'reveal-fixed version, which is fitted with a glass-to-glass cavity within the window's original reveal, for optimum sound quality.

You can pick from a variety of stop-strips and handles to meet your needs. They can be put in the closed position to provide additional security, or propped open for ventilation on the glass's top or bottom. They can be equipped with an insulation bristle to stop draughts.

Imagine a vertical slider with 'Choices' secondary glazing comes with all the authentic timber 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 nearly impossible to distinguish from original sash windows as features like sash windows upvc horns as well as traditional butt joints are incorporated into the design. It's available in a broad range of sizes and accepts glass up to 6.8mm to provide additional insulation against loss of heat. The tilt-in option permits the individual sashes of the window to be hinged upwards on safety stays for easier cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane hinged secondary glazing can be fitted to windows in sash of any design including casement and traditional box sash windows sash. Our hinged units are supplied with a keylock handle, and are manufactured with multi-point locking. This will ensure that the glazed panel is secured and is pulled tightly to the frame, creating a seal to minimize loss of heat. Hinged windows can be top-hung or side-hung, and they can also be double-glazed. Double-glazed windows are a great way to improve sound insulation and are available in 43dB, 47dB and 51dB.

Unlike horizontal sash windows, with movable sashes that slide horizontally within the frame, casement windows can be opened outward and capture breezes from different angles. They can also be opened from the top and bottom to offer controlled ventilation. This is why they can increase airflow and provide an effective alternative to traditional windows with sash.

They are often used in modern homes because they offer a few "sightlines" and unobstructed views. However, they can also be used in listed homes because they don't require transoms or mullions. They are also a good choice for hard-to-reach areas since they can be opened with the twist of a handle.

This kind of window can be a drawback since it could limit the use of certain window coverings. They can also be difficult to clean because they open outwards, 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 type, thickness and the materials you select for your panes and frame. uPVC windows are usually the most affordable followed by aluminium and finally wooden window frames. Specialized glass, in addition to any extra features such as security or sound reduction can also increase prices.

Another factor that affects the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complicated the installation is, the more time and labour it will take. This is also true for older homes with more complex sash windows, which require expertise and knowledge.

Examining the condition of your 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 little effect on the appearance of your home. This is due to the fact that the modern FINEO double glazing has sleek and subtle frames, meaning you can achieve thermal efficiency without compromising on aesthetics.

A popular choice of secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which allows easy access to windows that are already sash for cleaning or ventilation. These are also available with a tilt function, which is activated by opening the catch and then lifting your secondary glazing panel vertically up to a certain level. This is ideal for windows that aren't used frequently and can be used to make it easier to access air cooling in bay windows. You can even use them to open up the middle sash window cost on a traditional sash bay window to create a more uniform look.