Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners aren't able to install double glazing to their house due to financial constraints or because the structure is listed and modifications to the exterior are forbidden.
Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative to sash windows. It can be put in various ways.
This is a double-paned, insulated glass that fits inside the window frame you already have. It offers insulation and noise reduction, in addition to preventing cold air from entering your home.
Fixed Inserts
If you're thinking about secondary glazing for your sash windows, there are many different styles you can pick from. Each offers a unique set of advantages, from increased security to lower condensation. Which is the best option for you?
The basic idea behind secondary glazing is to install an additional glass into your existing window frame. This provides an additional layer of soundproofing and insulation, which can significantly increase the efficiency of your home's energy use.
However, it's not always possible to add new double-glazed windows for your home particularly if you reside in a listed building or are subject to strict regulations regarding planning that dictate what can and can't be done to your exterior.
Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative in these instances. It can be installed quite easily. It's also a popular choice for those who want to modernize their period property without the need to tear down the original windows in sash and replace them with new ones.
There are many different options for secondary glazing on Sash windows. Each can be customized to fit the frame you already have. The proprietary systems typically feature painted aluminium frames that are made to fit within the depth of a staff bead an existing sash window which means that sills and shutters can be kept.
They can be equipped with different installation methods such as glazing clips or Velcro. These are more appealing than screw-fixed units and are best suited for windows that do not require to be opened often. You can also select an unfixed lift-out unit that can be easily lifted out and then reinstalled to open your windows.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal sliders are the most well-known way to improve existing windows with sash. They are also discreet and are ideal for historic homes or conservation areas as well as listed properties. They can be fitted with the need for access from outside as they are operated from inside.
They are easy to operate by hand and can be opened wide or left partially open to allow for ventilation. They are extremely effective in stopping draughts and also they also have the benefit of filtering out harmful UV light. They can be used in conjunction with a flyscreen to ward off mosquitoes and other insects during summer months.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system provides all the advantages of modern double glazing to your original sash windows. It comprises of PVC double sliding tracks on all four sides of the cavity and an easy bristle seal around each glass sheet and finger pull angle handles that serve as handles and decrease bowing. It comes in kits of 1m or 2m track and angle that can be put together to create bigger spans.
Secondary glazing can have a significant impact on noise reduction, particularly for road, rail and airport traffic. The addition of laminated glass or toughened glasses improves the acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing can reduce outside noise by 52dB(Rw) and specialist glass like Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can achieve even higher levels of acoustic performances.
It can boost the energy efficiency of your house by keeping it warm for longer. This can reduce the need for 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 option that is often more manageable than a complete window replacement. It is 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 designed especially for sash windows, where regular hinged panels don't work. They feature two secondary sashes which are secured to one sash above the other, within an outer frame. sash lock door handles www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk are supported by sturdy spring balances to allow for easy movement. The system can be put on the inside of an existing window for greater thermal efficiency or fitted with a space between the glass and the frame to ensure the best acoustic performance.
They can be fitted with a variety of handles and stop strips to accommodate the preferences of the homeowner, propping open either the bottom or top pane for ventilation or placed in the closed position to provide security. They can also be equipped with an insulating bristle seal that can keep out drafts.
The 'Choices' vertical slider secondary glass has the same authentic wood details you'd expect in a window covering from the past. It is available in a variety of colours that are compatible with your sash. It is almost impossible to distinguish from the original sash windows as details such as sash horns and traditional butt joints are included in the design. It's available in a wide variety of sizes and can accept glass up to 6.8mm to provide additional insulation against heat loss. The tilt-in feature allows the sashes of each window to be hinged backwards on safety stays to facilitate cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane secondary glazing is able to be fitted on sash windows in any design, including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units can be equipped with a keylock handle, and are manufactured with multi-point locking. This combination ensures the glazed panel is locked securely in place, and it pulls tightly against the frame creating a seal designed to reduce heat loss. Hinged windows can be top-hung or side-hung, and they can also be double-glazed. Our double-glazed windows provide enhanced sound insulation and are available in 43dB,47dB or 51dB.
Casement windows are able to open outwards and catch breezes from 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 to provide controlled ventilation. For this reason, they can help improve airflow and offer an effective alternative to traditional windows made of sash.
They are often employed in modern homes since they offer small "sightlines" and unobstructed views, but can also be fitted into listed homes because they don't require mullions or transoms. They're also a great option for areas that are difficult to access as they can be opened by the flick of a handle.
This kind of window could be a disadvantage because it can restrict the use of certain window coverings. They can also be difficult to clean because they swing outward, and could require regular maintenance and service.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be installed with a variety of methods and the price will vary depending on the type, thickness and materials you choose for your panes and frame. UPVC frames are the cheapest expensive followed by aluminium, and wooden frames. Specialized glass, in addition to any other features such as security or sound reduction could also increase prices.
Another factor that affects the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complicated the project is, the more time and labour will be required. This is especially true for heritage properties with more complex sash window designs.
Analyzing the condition of windows in use is a good way to begin. You can get a reliable estimate of the cost by having them inspected by a professional.
In general secondary glazing can have little effect on the look of your home. This is thanks to the fact that the modern FINEO double-glazing has slim and discrete frame lines, so you can attain thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.
The horizontal sliding secondary glazing is a popular choice because it permits easy access to the sash window for cleaning or ventilation. They can also be purchased with a tilt feature, which you can activate by releasing the catch on your secondary glazing panel and then lifting it vertically to a preset point. This is perfect for windows that aren't opened very often. It can be used to provide air conditioning access to bay windows. You can also use them to open the middle sash of a traditional sash Bay Window to create a more symmetrical appearance.