The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows
Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are not able to add double glazing to their homes due to financial constraints or because the structure is listed and exterior modifications are prohibited.
Secondary glazing for sash windows is a good alternative that can be put in in various ways.
It is made up of an additional pane of glass within the window frame that stops cold air from getting into your home, as well as offering insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
There are many different styles of secondary glazing that are available for Sash windows. Each comes with its own number of advantages, ranging from improved security to reduced condensation. Which is the best choice for you?
The principle behind secondary glazing is to install an additional glass within the frame of your existing window. This creates an extra layer of soundproofing and insulation which can greatly improve your home's energy efficiency.
It's not always practical to add double-glazed windows, especially if your home is a listed property or if you are bound by strict planning regulations that dictate what can and can't be done with your exterior.
Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative in these situations. It can be set up relatively easily. It's a popular option for those who wish to update their period home without the need to replace window sashes the original sash window an updated version.
There are a number of different options available for secondary glazing sash windows, all of can be customized to fit the frame you have. The proprietary systems typically feature painted aluminium frames that are designed 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.
They can be installed using a variety of installation methods, including glazing clips and Velcro. They offer a more stylish solution than screw-fixed units, and are especially suited for windows that do not need to be opened regularly. You can also opt for a fixed lift-out unit that can be lifted out and then put back in place with ease to allow windows to be opened.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most sought-after solution to improve the performance of existing windows with sash. They are also discrete and are ideal for historic homes as well as conservation areas and listed properties. They can be fitted with the need for external access since they operate from inside.
They can be operated by hand 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 used in conjunction with an insect screen to deter mosquitoes and other insects during the summer months.
Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the benefits of double glazing for your traditional window sash. It is comprised of PVC double sliding track that runs across all four sides of cavity and a simple brush seal around each glass sheet and a 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 stacked together to create larger spans.
The acoustic benefits of secondary glazing are significant and can dramatically enhance noise reduction from outside, especially railway, road and airport traffic. The addition of laminated or toughened glass further enhances acoustic performance. Secondary glazing that is standard can reduce outside noise to 52dB(Rw) and specialized glass like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can deliver even higher levels of acoustic performance.
It can increase the efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer for longer, and reducing dependence on central heating. It's much less expensive than replacing your sash windows and is installed in most cases without the need to take out the existing window or door frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective option that is usually simpler to manage than a full window replacement. It's suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great way to modernize traditional sash windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their distinctive character.
Vertical Sliders are designed especially for windows with sash openings where standard hinged panels aren't suitable. They come with two secondary sashes which are secured with one above the other, inside an outer frame. They are supported by sturdy spring balances to allow for easy movement. The system can be put on the inside of a window to provide greater thermal efficiency, or it can be equipped with a cavity between the frame and the glass for optimum acoustic properties.
You can choose from a variety of handles and stop-strips to suit your preferences. They can be put in a closed position for additional security or propped open to allow ventilation on the glass's top or bottom. They can also be fitted with an insulating bristle seal that can prevent draughts.
Imagine vertical sliders in 'Choices' secondary glazing features the same authentic wood detailing you'd expect from a vintage window treatment. It's available in a variety of colors to match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to differentiate from the original sash window, with features like 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 heat loss. A tilt-in option is available allowing the individual sashes of the frame to hinge into the safety stays to aid in cleaning.
Hinged casement window sash
Our single-pane hinged secondary glass can be incorporated into sash windows of any style including casement and traditional box sash window sash. The hinged units we offer can be supplied with a keylock handle and are constructed with multi-point locking. This ensures that the glass panel is secured securely in place, and it pulls tight to the outer frame, creating a seal to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows are available either top or side-hung and can also be made with double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced performance in terms of acoustics and are available in 43dB (for 47dB), 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).
Casement windows are able open outwards and catch breezes at various angles. This is in contrast to a the horizontal sash window that has movable sashes inside the frame that slide horizontally. They can also be opened from both the top and bottom to offer controlled ventilation. They also increase airflow and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash windows.
They are often utilized in modern homes as they offer a few "sightlines" and unobstructed views. However, they can also be used in listed homes due to the fact that they don't require mullions or transoms. They're also a good option for those who live in areas that are difficult to reach since they can be opened with the flick of the handle.
This kind of window can be a disadvantage because it could limit the use of certain window coverings. They are difficult to clean, as they swing outwards. They may also require regular maintenance and care.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be set up with a variety of methods and the cost will differ depending on the type, thickness, and materials you select for your frame and panes. uPVC frames are the least expensive followed by aluminium, and then wooden frames. Specialised glass, along with any other features such as security or sound reduction can increase the cost of windows.
The complexity of the installation will influence the cost. The more complicated the installation will take longer and more labour will be required. This is also true for historic properties with more intricate sash windows that require expertise and knowledge.
The best place to begin is to assess the condition of your current windows. You can get an accurate estimate of the cost by having them checked by an expert.
In general, secondary glazing will have a minimal impact on the overall appearance of your home. This is due to the fact that modern FINEO double glazing is slim and discreet frames, meaning you can achieve thermal efficiency without compromising on aesthetics.
A popular choice of secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which gives easy access to your existing sash windows for cleaning or ventilation. These are also available with a tilt feature, which can be activated by opening the catch and lifting the secondary glazing panel vertically to a predetermined level. This is great for windows that aren't opened often and is a great way to allow access to air conditioning in bay windows. You can also use them to open up the middle sash of an old-fashioned sash windows upvc bay window to give a more symmetrical appearance.