Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners aren't able to install double glazing to their home, either due to financial constraints or because the building is listed and modifications to the exterior are not permitted.
Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative to sash windows and can be installed in a variety of ways.
This is a double-paned glass that fits inside the frame of your window. It is insulated and provides noise reduction, as well as preventing cold air from entering your home.
Fixed Inserts
If you're considering secondary glazing for your sash windows, there are a variety of styles you can pick from. Each style offers its own set of benefits that range from increased security to reduced condensation. Which is the best option for you?
The fundamental idea behind secondary glazing is the installation of an additional pane of glass within the window frame. This adds an additional layer of insulation and noiseproofing to your home, enhancing its energy efficiency.
It's not always feasible to install double-glazed windows especially if your home is a listed property or you are governed by strict planning regulations that dictate what can and can't be done with your exterior.
Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative in these situations. It can be put in quite easily. It's also a popular option for those looking to upgrade their home without having to take down the original sash windows and replace them with contemporary ones.
There are several different systems for secondary glazing on Sash windows. Each system can be adapted to fit your existing frame. The proprietary systems are typically constructed of painted aluminium frames that fit into the existing bead depth on the sash window. This lets shutters and sills be retained.
They can be fitted with different installation methods including glazing clips or Velcro. They provide a more attractive solution to screw-fixed units and are particularly suited to windows that aren't required to be opened regularly. You can also opt for a fixed lift-out device that can be easily removed and reinstalled to open your windows.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders provide excellent thermal insulation and are the most well-known solution to improve the performance of existing sash windows. They are also very discreet and ideal for historic buildings, conservation areas, and listed properties. In most cases, they are installed without external access because they operate by the inside.
They are simple to operate with a hand and can be open wide or left partially open for ventilation. They are extremely effective in eliminating draughts and they also have the benefit of filtering out harmful UV light. In summer, they can be used with a flyscreen in order to keep out insects and mosquitoes.
Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems provide all the advantages of double glazing for the original window sash. It consists of PVC double sliding track that runs across all four sides of cavity with a brush seal around each glass sheet and finger pull angle handle to act as a hand and decrease bowing. It comes in kits with 1m or 2m of track and angle that can be put together to create larger spans.
The acoustic benefits of second glazing are important and can enhance noise reduction from outside, especially road, rail & airport traffic. The addition of laminated glass or toughened glasses enhances the acoustic performances. Secondary glazing is a standard feature that can reduce outside noise by 52dB(Rw) and specialist glass such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can provide even greater levels of acoustic performance.
It can improve the efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer longer. This can reduce the need for central heating. It is much cheaper than replacing your old 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 choice that is usually simpler to manage than a full window replacement. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great way to improve the look of traditional sash windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their distinctive character.
Vertical Sliders are specifically designed for sash windows where regular hinged panels don't work. They have two secondary sashes that are secured with one above the other, inside an outer frame. They are supported by strong spring balances to allow for easy movement. The system can be installed on the inside of an existing window to ensure greater thermal efficiency or fitted with a cavity between the glass and the frame to maximize acoustic properties.
You can choose from a variety of stop-strips and handles that suit your preferences. They can be positioned in the closed position for extra security or propped open to allow ventilation on the glass's top or bottom. They can also be fitted with an insulation bristle to block drafts.
The 'Choices' vertical slider secondary glass has the same authentic wood details you'd expect to find in a period window. It comes in a variety of colors that will match your existing sash. It is almost impossible to distinguish from the original sash windows as features like sash horns and traditional butt joints are incorporated into the design. It is available in many sizes and can take glass up to 6.8mm to provide additional insulation against loss of heat. The tilt-in option permits the sashes of each window to be hinged inwards to make it easier for cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane hinged secondary glazing can be incorporated into windows made of sash in any style, including casement and traditional box sash. The hinged units we offer are made with secure multi-point locking and can be supplied with keys and a handle for the lock. This combination ensures that the glass panel is securely secured and is pulled tightly to the outer frame, creating a seal to reduce loss of heat. Hinged windows are available as either side or top hung and can also be constructed as double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced audio-acoustic performance. They are available in 43dB, 47dB or 51dB.
Contrary to horizontal sash windows with movable sashes that slide horizontally within the frame casement windows can be opened outwards and let in breezes from a variety of angles. They can also be opened from both the top and bottom to provide controlled ventilation. They are therefore able to improve airflow and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash windows.
They are commonly utilized in modern homes as 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 used in areas that are difficult to access since they can be opened by turning the handle.
This type of window can be a drawback since it may limit the use of certain window treatments. timber sash window Repair My Windows And Doors can also be difficult to clean since they open outwards, and may require regular maintenance and service.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be installed using a variety of ways. The cost will vary depending on your preference of the materials, thickness, and kind of glass. UPVC frames are the cheapest expensive, followed by aluminium and then wooden frames. Specialised glass, as well any other 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 project, the longer and more labor-intensive it will be. This also applies to historic properties with more complex sash windows, which require specialized knowledge and expertise.
Assessing the condition of windows in use is a good place to start. You can get a precise estimate of the cost by having them checked by a professional.
In general, secondary glazing has a minimal effect on the look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing features thin and subtle frame lines. This allows you to improve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.
The horizontal sliding secondary glazing is popular because it allows easy access to the sash window for cleaning or ventilation. You can also get them with a tilt function, which you can activate by unlocking the catch on your secondary glazing panel and then lifting it vertically to a preset point. This is ideal for windows that aren't opened frequently and can be used to facilitate access for air cooling in bay windows. They can be used to open the middle sash of a traditional Bay Window to create a symmetrical appearance.