The 10 Most Scariest Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows
Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are unable install new double glazing on their homes due to financial limitations or because they reside in listed buildings which prohibit any modifications to the exterior.
Secondary glazing for windows with sash is a great alternative that can be put in with a variety of ways.
This product is a double-paned window that fits into the window frame you already have. It provides insulation and noise reduction, while stopping cold air from entering your home.
Fixed Inserts
There are a variety of styles of secondary glazing for sash windows. Each style comes with its own set of benefits ranging from increased security to less condensation. Which is the best choice for you?
The basic idea behind secondary glazing is to fit an additional glass inside the window frame. This provides an additional layer of insulation and noiseproofing your home, increasing its energy efficiency.
However it's not always feasible to add new double-glazed windows to your home particularly if you live in a listed structure or are subject to strict planning regulations which dictate what can and cannot be done to your exterior.
In these instances secondary glazing is an excellent alternative that can be put in easily. It's also a popular choice for those who want to modernize their old home without having to tear down the original sash windows and replace them with contemporary ones.
There are a number of different options available for secondary glazing sash windows, each one of which is configurable to suit your frame. Proprietary systems usually have painted aluminium frames which are designed to fit within the depth of a staff bead on an existing sash window, meaning that shutters and sills can still be retained.
They can be equipped with a variety of installation methods, such as glazing clips or Velcro. These units are more attractive than screw-fixed ones and are ideal for windows that do not require to be opened often. Alternately, you can choose a fixed lift-out unit, which can be lifted out and put back in place with ease, allowing your windows to be opened.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal sliders are the most popular method of enhancing the appearance of a windows with sash. They are also very discrete and are ideal for historic structures, conservation areas and listed properties. They can be installed in the majority of cases without the need for external access since they operate from inside.
They are simple to operate by hand and can be open wide or left partially open for ventilation. They are effective in stopping draughts and also filter harmful UV light. In summer they can be paired with a flyscreen in order to keep insects out and mosquitoes.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the benefits of modern double glazing for your classic Sash windows. It comprises of pvc sash windows double sliding tracks on all four sides of the cavity, the simple bristle seal that is placed around each glass sheet and angle handles that can be pulled by fingers to serve as handles and lessen bowing. It is available in kits of 1m or 2m of track and angle that can be put together to create larger spans.
Secondary glazing can have a significant effect on noise reduction, particularly for road, rail and airport traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass further enhances acoustic performance. 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 achieve even higher levels of acoustic performances.
It can improve the energy efficiency of your home by keeping your house warmer for longer, and reducing dependence on central heating. It's less expensive than replacing sash cords the original sash window, and can be installed without having to remove the existing frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective alternative that is usually more manageable than a complete window replacement. It is also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's the ideal option for upgrading traditional windows made of sash in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits, while maintaining the charm of older homes.
Vertical Sliders were developed to be used in sash window applications in which hinged panels from the standard range would not be suitable. The system features two secondary sashes, which are secured one over the other inside an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances to allow for effortless movement. The system can be installed on the inside of an existing window for greater thermal efficiency, or it can be equipped with a cavity between the frame and the glass to maximize acoustic properties.
They can be equipped with a variety of stops and handles to meet the needs of the homeowner, propping open either the bottom or top pane to let in air, or they can be placed in the closed position to provide security. They can also be equipped with an insulating bristle seal that can keep out draughts.
The 'Choices' vertical slider secondary glass comes with the same authentic wood details you'd expect to see in a period window. It comes in a variety of colors that match your existing sash window refurbishment. It is almost impossible to distinguish from the original sash windows as features like sash horns as well as traditional butt joints are integrated into the design. It's available in an extensive selection of sizes and will accept glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to prevent heat loss. A tilt-in option is available that allows the individual sashes to hinge into the safety stays to aid in cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane secondary glazing is able to be installed on sash windows of any style, including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units are manufactured with secure multi-point locking and can be supplied with a key lock handle. This combination ensures that the glazed panel is locked in place and pulls tightly to the frame, forming a seal to reduce heat loss. Hinged windows can be top-hung or side-hung, and they can also be double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced sound insulation and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) and 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).
Casement windows can open up and let in breezes at different angles. This is in contrast to a the horizontal replacing sash cords window, which has movable sashes within the frame that move horizontally. They can also be opened from both the top and bottom to offer controlled airflow. They also increase airflow and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash windows.
They are often employed in modern homes since they offer a few "sightlines" and unobstructed views, but can also be used in listed properties because they don't require mullions or transoms. They can also be utilized in areas that are difficult to access since they can be opened simply by turning the handle.
This type of window can be a problem as it can restrict the use of certain window treatments. They are also difficult to clean because they swing outward and may require regular maintenance and servicing.
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 frame and panes. uPVC frames are the least expensive followed by aluminium, and then wooden frames. Specialized glass may also increase the cost and also any additional features such as security or sound reduction.
Another factor that affects the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complex the project will take longer and require more labor it will require. This also applies to historic properties with more intricate sash windows that require expertise and knowledge.
Assessing the condition of windows that are in use is a good place to start. You can get a reliable estimate of the cost by having them examined by an expert.
In general secondary glazing can have little effect on the appearance of your home. This is due to the fact that the modern FINEO double glazing is slim and discreet frame lines, so you can attain thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.
A very popular choice for secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which gives an easy access to your existing sash windows for cleaning or ventilation. They also come with a tilt feature, which can be activated by releasing the catch and then lifting your secondary glazing panel vertically to a specified level. This is ideal for windows that aren't used often and is a great way to make it easier to access air conditioning in bay windows. You can also use them to open the middle sash of an old-fashioned sash bay window to create a more symmetrical look.