The 10 Most Scariest Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows
Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are not able to add new double glazing to their homes due to financial limitations or because they reside in listed buildings that restrict any exterior modifications.
Secondary glazing for wooden sash window windows is a good alternative and can be installed in various ways.
This product is a double glazed sash windows-paned window that can be placed inside your existing window frame. It offers insulation and noise reduction, as well as preventing cold air from entering the home.
Fixed Inserts
If you're considering secondary glazing for your sash windows, there are several different styles to pick from. Each style has each of its own benefits ranging from increased security to less condensation. Which is the most effective option for you?
The principle behind secondary glazing is to install an additional pane of glass within your window frame. This provides an additional layer of soundproofing and insulation which can greatly improve your home's energy efficiency.
However it's not always possible to add new double-glazed windows to your property, especially 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.
In these instances, secondary glazing is an excellent alternative that can be set up with ease. It's a popular option for those who want to modernize their home without having to replace the original sash window an updated version.
There are many different systems available for secondary glazing sash windows, each one 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 an existing sash window which means that sills and shutters can still be retained.
They can be equipped using a variety of methods for installation, such as glazing clips or Velcro. These units are more attractive than screw-fixed ones and are best suited for windows that do not need to be opened often. Alternately, you can opt for a fixed lift-out unit that can be lifted out and put back in its place with ease, allowing your windows to be opened.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders offer 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, and listed properties. In the majority of cases, they are installed without external access because they are operated from inside.
They are simple to operate with a hand and can be opened wide or left partially open to allow for ventilation. They are extremely effective in stopping draughts and also offer the added benefit of blocking harmful UV light. In summer, they can be used together with a flyscreen to keep out insects and mosquitoes.
Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems provide all the benefits of double glazing for the original sash window. It consists of PVC double sliding tracks that run across all four sides of the cavity with an easy bristle seal around each glass sheet, and finger pull angle handles that act as a handle and decrease bowing. It is available in kits comprising either 1m or 2m lengths of track and angle that can be butted together to create larger spans.
The acoustic benefits of secondary glazing are significant and can dramatically reduce noise from outside, especially railway, road and airport traffic. The addition of laminated or toughened glass further enhances the acoustic quality. Secondary glazing that is standard reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and specialist glass, such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can deliver higher levels of acoustic performance.
It can improve the energy efficiency of your home by keeping your house warmer for longer and reducing reliance on central heating. It's much less expensive than replacing your old sash windows and can be installed without the need to remove the existing window or door frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost effective option that is usually more manageable than full window replacement. It is also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great option to modernize 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, one above the other, within an outer frame. They are supported by strong spring balances that allow for effortless movement. The system can be put on the inside of an existing window to ensure more efficient thermal performance or fitted with a space between the glass and the frame to maximize acoustic properties.
You can choose from a range of stop-strips and handles that meet your needs. They can be put in the closed position to provide extra security or propped open for ventilation on the top or bottom glass. They can also be fitted with an insulating bristle seal to stop draughts.
Imagine a vertical slider with 'Choices' secondary glazing has all the authentic timber detailing you'd expect from a vintage window treatment. It's available in a variety of colors to match your existing sash. It's nearly impossible to distinguish from the original sash windows as details like sash horns and traditional joints are integrated into the design. It's available in a wide variety of sizes and can accept glass up to 6.8mm to give additional insulation against loss of heat. A tilt-in option is available to allow the sashes to be hinged towards the back of safety stays to help with cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane secondary glass can be installed on sash windows in any design, including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units are manufactured with secure multi-point locking and are available with keys lock handles. This combination ensures the glazed panel is held securely in place and is pulled tight to the outer frame, creating a seal to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows can be top-hung or side-hung, and they can also be double-glazed. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced acoustic performance and are available in 43dB, 47dB or 51dB.
In contrast to horizontal sash windows with movable sashes that slide horizontally within the frame, casement windows are able to open outwards and let in breezes from various angles. They can also be opened from the top and bottom for controlled airflow. They also increase airflow and are a great alternative to traditional sash windows.
They are typically used in modern homes because they offer small "sightlines" and unobstructed views. They can also be fitted into listed homes due to the fact that they don't require transoms or mullions. They're also a great choice for hard-to-reach areas because they can be opened with the twist of the handle.
The primary disadvantage of this type of window is that they can block off large openings and may restrict the use of certain window treatments. They can be difficult to clean, as they open outward. They could also require regular maintenance and servicing.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be installed in a variety of ways and the price will vary depending on the type, thickness and materials you select for your frame and panes. UPVC frames are the cheapest expensive followed by aluminium, and then wooden sash windows frames. Specialised glass can also increase the cost and include additional features such as security or sound reduction.
The complexity of the installation will impact the cost. The more complicated the project, the more time and labor will be required. This is also applicable to older properties that have more intricate designs for sash windows.
The best place to begin is by assessing the condition of your existing windows. Having them surveyed by an experienced professional will give you a precise estimate of what the cost might be.
In general secondary glazing has an insignificant impact on the appearance of your home. This is thanks to the fact that the modern FINEO double glazing has slim and discrete frame lines, so you can get the most efficient thermal performance without compromising on aesthetics.
The horizontal sliding secondary glazing is a popular choice because it permits easy access to the existing sash window to clean or for ventilation. They also come with a tilt feature, that can be activated by unlocking the catch and raising the secondary glazing panel vertically to a predetermined degree. This is ideal for windows that don't get frequently opened. 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 give a more symmetrical appearance.