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Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are unable to build new double-glazed windows to their homes, either because of financial limitations or because they reside in listed buildings that restrict any exterior changes.
Secondary glazing is a great alternative to sash windows. It can be installed in a variety of ways.
This product is a double-paned glass that fits into the frame of your window. It offers insulation and noise reduction, as well as 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 to pick from. Each has its own set of benefits, from improved security to reduced condensation. Which is the most effective choice for you?
The principle behind secondary glazing is the installation of an additional glass pane inside your existing window frame. This adds an additional layer of insulation and noiseproofing your home, increasing its energy efficiency.
It's not always feasible to add double-glazed windows, particularly if your house is an listed property or you are bound by strict planning regulations dictating what can and can't be done to your exterior.
In these instances, secondary glazing is a great alternative that can be put in with ease. It's also a popular option for people looking to update their old home without the need to tear down the original windows in sash and replace them with contemporary ones.
There are many different options for secondary glazing on windows made of sash. Each can be adapted to fit the frame you already have. Proprietary systems are generally constructed of painted aluminum frames that fit into the existing depth of the staff bead on a sash window. This lets shutters and sills be retained.
They can be fitted using a variety of methods for installation, 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 frequently. You can also opt for an adjustable lift-out unit that can be lifted and put back in its place with ease to allow your windows to be opened.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal sliders are the most well-known method to enhance the appearance of your windows with sash. They are also quiet and are ideal for historic homes or conservation areas as well as listed properties. In most cases, they are installed without access from outside because they are operated from inside.
They can be operated with a hand, and they can be left open or partially closed for ventilation. They are very effective in getting rid of draughts, and offer the added benefit of filtering out harmful UV light. They can be used in combination with a flyscreen to ward off mosquitoes and other insects during summer months.
Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the benefits of double glazing for the original Sash window. It is comprised of PVC double sliding tracks on the four sides of the cavity and 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 reduce bowing. It is available in kits of 1m or 2m track and angle that can be stacked together to create larger spans.
Secondary glazing can have a significant impact on noise reduction, especially for road, rail and 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 achieve even more impressive levels of acoustic performance.
It can increase the energy efficiency of your house by keeping it warmer for longer. This will decrease the need for central heating. It is much cheaper than replacing your original 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 typically simpler to manage than a full window replacement. It is suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great option to upgrade traditional sash Windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their originality.
Vertical Sliders were developed to be used in sash window applications where regular hinged panels would not be suitable. The system features two secondary sashes, which are fixed one above the other inside an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances, allowing for effortless movement. The system can be installed on the inside of a window to provide greater thermal efficiency, or it can be fitted with an opening between the glass and the frame to ensure the best acoustic performance.
They can be equipped with a variety handles and stop strips to meet the needs of the homeowner by allowing the top or bottom pane to allow for ventilation or placed in an open position for additional security. They can also be fitted with an insulation bristle to block draughts.
'Choices’ Imagine vertical slider secondary glass features the same authentic wood details you'd expect to see in a period window treatment. It is available in a variety of colours that are compatible with your sash. It's almost impossible to distinguish from the original sash windows as features like sash horns and traditional joints are included in the design. It's available in an extensive selection of sizes and will accept glass up to 6.8mm to give additional insulation against loss of heat. A tilt-in option is available allowing the individual sashes to hinge into the 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 casement and traditional box sash. The hinged units we offer are made with a secure multi-point locking system and are available with keys and a handle for the lock. This will ensure that the glazed panel is securely locked in place and is pulled tightly to the frame, forming a seal to minimise heat loss. Hinged windows can be side-hung or top-hung and can 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 up and let in breezes from different angles. This is in contrast to a horizontal sash window, that has movable sashes inside the frame that move horizontally. They can be opened both from the top and bottom to allow controlled airflow. They are therefore able to increase airflow and are a great alternative to traditional sash windows.
They are used in modern homes due to their slim "sightlines" that permit an unobstructed view. However, they can also be incorporated in listed buildings since they don't require transoms or mullions. They're also a good choice for hard-to-reach areas because they can be opened with the twist of a handle.
repairmywindowsanddoors of window can be a disadvantage because it could limit the use of certain window treatments. They can be difficult to clean as they can swing outward. They may also require regular maintenance and care.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be installed using a variety methods. The cost will vary according to your selection of materials such as thickness, thickness and type of glass. uPVC frames are the least expensive, followed by aluminium and then wooden frames. Specialized glass, in addition to any extra features such as security or sound reduction can also raise prices.
Another factor that affects the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complicated the installation, the longer and more labor-intensive it will be. This is also true for heritage properties with more complex designs for sash windows.
Analyzing the condition of windows that are in use is a good place to start. A survey by an experienced professional will give you an accurate estimate of what the price might be.
In general secondary glazing can have an insignificant impact on the look of your home. Modern FINEO double-glazing has slim and distinct frame lines. This allows you to get the most efficient heat without compromising aesthetics.
The horizontal sliding secondary glazing is a popular choice because it permits easy access to the sash window to clean or for ventilation. They can also be purchased with a tilt function which you can activate by releasing the catch on the secondary glazing panel and lifting it vertically to a set point. This is perfect for windows that aren't opened often. It can be used to provide air conditioning access in bay windows. They can be used to open the middle sash in a traditional sash Bay Window to create a more symmetrical appearance.