Many homeowners are unable install new double glazing on their homes, either because of financial constraints or because they reside in listed buildings that restrict any exterior modifications.
Secondary glazing for windows made of sash is an excellent alternative and can be installed in various ways.
It's an additional pane of glass within the window frame, which stops cold air from getting into your home, as well as providing insulation and noise reduction.
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 has its own set of benefits ranging from increased security to less condensation. Which is the most effective choice for you?
The principle behind secondary glazing is to install an additional glass pane within your window frame. This provides an additional layer of insulation and noiseproofing to your home, increasing its energy efficiency.
However it's not always feasible to add double-glazed windows to your property particularly if you live in a listed structure or are subject to strict regulations regarding planning that define what can and can't be done to your exterior.
Secondary glazing is a great alternative in these instances. It can be put in quite easily. It's also a popular choice for those who want to modernize their period property without having to tear down the original windows with sash and replace them with modern ones.
There are many different systems available for secondary glazing sash windows, each one of which is configurable to suit your existing frame. Proprietary systems typically have painted aluminium frames that are designed to fit into the depth of a staff bead on an existing sash window, meaning that shutters and sills are still able to be used.
They can be fitted with a variety of installation methods such as glazing clips and Velcro. These are more appealing than screw-fixed units and are ideally suited to windows that do not need to be opened frequently. You can also select an unfixed lift-out unit that can be easily removed and reinstalled to open your windows.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders provide excellent thermal insulation and are the most popular option for enhancing existing windows made of sash. They are also extremely discreet and are ideal for historic buildings, conservation areas & listed properties. In most instances, they can be installed without access from outside because they operate from inside.
They can be operated manually, and they can be left open or partially opened for ventilation. They are effective at preventing draughts, and they also filter harmful UV light. In the summer they can be utilized with a flyscreen in order to keep insects out and mosquitoes.
Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems give all the benefits of double glazing for your original Sash window. It consists of PVC double sliding tracks that run across all four sides of the cavity with a simple bristle seal around each glass sheet, and angle handles that can be pulled by fingers to act as a handle and decrease bowing. It comes in kits of 1m or 2m of track and angle that can be stacked together to create larger spans.
The acoustic advantages of secondary glazing are very significant and it can significantly enhance noise reduction from outside especially road, rail & airport traffic. The addition of laminated or toughened glass can further improve acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing 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 your house warmer for longer, and reducing dependence on central heating. It is much cheaper than replacing your original sash windows, and can be installed in most cases without the need to take out the window or door frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is an affordable option that is usually more manageable than a complete 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 windows with sash openings where standard hinged panels aren't appropriate. The system features two secondary sashes, which are fixed one above the other inside an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances to allow for effortless movement. The system can be put on the inside of an existing window to ensure better thermal performance or equipped with a space between the frame and the glass to ensure the best acoustic performance.
They can be equipped with a variety of stops and handles to suit the homeowner's preferences by allowing the bottom or top pane for ventilation, or they can be placed in an open position for additional security. They can be fitted with an insulation bristle to stop drafts.
Imagine a vertical slider with 'Choices' secondary glazing has the same authentic wood detailing you'd expect from an antique window treatment and comes in a variety of colors to match your existing sash. It's difficult to differentiate from the original sash window, with features like sash window locks horns & traditional butt joints 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 feature allows the sashes of each window to be hinged inwards on safety stays for easier cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane hinged secondary glass can be incorporated into windows made of sash in any style, including traditional and casement sash. Our hinged units can be supplied with a keylock handle and are constructed with multi-point locking. This combination ensures that the glazed panel is securely secured and is pulled tightly against the frame, creating a seal to minimise loss of heat. Hinged windows are available either top or side hung and are also available as 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 outwards and catch breezes from different angles. This is unlike 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. Because of this, they can help improve airflow and offer an effective alternative to traditional sash windows.
They are used in modern homes due to their narrow "sightlines" that permit an unobstructed view. However, they can also be put in listed homes since they don't require transoms and mullions. They're also a good option for areas that are difficult to access as they can be opened with the flick of a handle.
The primary drawback to this kind of window is that it can block large openings and may restrict the use of certain window treatments. They can also be difficult to clean as they swing outward, and may require regular maintenance and servicing.
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 materials you choose for your frame and panes. upvc sash windows near me frames are the least expensive followed by aluminium, and wooden frames. Specialised glass can also increase the price and also any additional features such as sound reduction or security.
Another aspect that can affect the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complicated the installation, the longer and more labour it will take. This is also true for historic properties with more intricate sash windows that require expertise and knowledge.
Analyzing the condition of windows that are in use is a good place to begin. You can get an accurate estimate of the cost by having them examined by a professional.
In general, secondary glazing will have minimal impact on the overall appearance of your home. This is thanks to the fact that the modern FINEO double-glazing has sleek and subtle frame lines, so you can attain thermal efficiency without compromising on aesthetics.
A popular option for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which provides an easy access to your windows that are already sash for cleaning or ventilation. These are also available with a tilt function, which can be activated by unlocking the catch and lifting the secondary glazing panel vertically to a predetermined degree. This is great for windows that aren't used often and is a great way to make it easier to access air conditioning in bay windows. It is also possible to use them to open the middle sash double glazing on the traditional sash window cost bay windows to create a more uniform look.