Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners aren't able to install double glazing to their homes because of financial limitations or because the structure is listed and exterior modifications are prohibited.
Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative for sash window and can be put in various ways.
This is a double-paned window that fits inside the frame of your window. It offers insulation and noise reduction, while blocking cold air from entering your home.
Fixed Inserts
There are a variety of styles of secondary glazing available for Sash windows. Each style has its own set of benefits that range from increased security to reduced condensation. Which is the best choice for you?
The principle behind secondary glazing is the installation of an additional pane of glass within the window frame. This creates an extra layer of insulation and soundproofing, which can greatly improve the energy efficiency of your home.
However it's not always feasible to add double-glazed windows for your home particularly if you live in a listed building or are subject to strict regulations regarding planning that define what can and can't be done to your exterior.
Secondary glazing is a great alternative in these circumstances. It can be put in quite easily. It's also a popular option for those who want to modernize their old home without having to take down the original sash windows and replace them with modern ones.
There are many different options for secondary glazing on Sash windows. Each system can be customized to fit your existing frame. Proprietary systems are generally comprised of painted aluminum frames that fit the existing staff bead depth on a sash window. This lets shutters and sills be retained.
They can be installed with a variety of installation methods, including glazing clips and Velcro. They offer a more stylish solution than screw-fixed units, and are especially suited for windows that do not need to be opened frequently. Alternately, you can opt for a fixed lift out unit that can be lifted out and put back in its place with ease to allow windows to be opened.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal sliders are the most popular way to improve existing windows. They are also very discreet and are ideal for historic structures, conservation areas and listed properties. They can be fitted in most cases without the need for external access since they operate from inside.
They are simple to operate by hand and can be opened wide or left partially open to allow for ventilation. They are effective at keeping out draughts, and also filter harmful UV light. In summer, they can be used together with a flyscreen to keep out insects and mosquitoes.
Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system provides all the benefits of modern double glazing to your traditional windows made of sash. It consists of PVC double sliding tracks on all four sides of the cavity and a simple bristle seal around each glass sheet, and angle handles that can be pulled by fingers to act as a handle and lessen 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 secondary glazing are very significant and can dramatically improve noise reduction from outside, especially railway, road and airport traffic. The inclusion of laminated glass or toughened glasses further improves the acoustic performance. Secondary glazing that is standard can reduce outside noise by 52dB(Rw) and specialist glass such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can achieve even higher levels of acoustic performance.
It can increase the 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 sash windows, and can be installed without the need to take out the window or door frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost effective option which is often less expensive than full window replacement. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great way to upgrade traditional sash Windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their originality.
Vertical Sliders were designed for use in sash windows where regular hinged panels are not suitable. They have two secondary sashes which are secured with one above the other, within an outer frame. They are supported by robust spring balances for ease of movement. The system can be placed on the inside of a window to provide greater thermal efficiency, or it can be fitted with an opening between the frame and the glass for optimum 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 for additional security or propped open for ventilation on the top or bottom glass. They can also be fitted with an insulation bristle to block drafts.
'Choices’ Imagine vertical slider secondary glass comes with the same authentic wood details you'd expect in a period window. It comes in a variety of colours that will match your existing sash. It is almost impossible to distinguish from original sash windows, since details such as sash horns and traditional butt joints are integrated into the design. It's available in a broad selection of sizes and will accept glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to prevent heat loss. The tilt-in option allows the sashes of each window to be hinged backwards on safety stays for easier cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane secondary glazing can be positioned on sash windows of any style including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units are equipped with a keylock handle, and are manufactured with multi-point locking. This will ensure that the glazed panel is locked in place and is pulled tightly to the frame, forming a seal to reduce heat loss. Hinged windows can be purchased as either top or side hung and are also available with double-glazed. sash window repairs -glazed windows provide better performance in terms of acoustics and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) and 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).
Casement windows can open up and let in breezes from different angles. This is in contrast to a the horizontal sash window, which has movable sashes within the frame that slide horizontally. They can also be opened from the top and bottom to provide controlled ventilation. They can therefore improve airflow, and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash window.

They are used in modern homes due to their small "sightlines" that permit clear views, however they can also be put into listed properties because they don't require mullions and transoms. They are also a good choice for hard-to-reach areas as they can be opened with the twist of a handle.
This kind of window can be a disadvantage because it can restrict the use of certain window coverings. They are difficult to clean, as they open outwards. They may also require regular maintenance and servicing.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be set up using a variety ways and the price will vary according to the type, thickness, and materials you select for your panes and frame. uPVC windows are usually the least expensive followed by aluminium and then wooden window frames. Specialised glass, along with any extra features such as security or sound reduction can also raise prices.
Another factor that will influence the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complicated the installation will take longer and more labor will be required. This is especially the case for older homes with more intricate sash window designs.
A good place to start is to assess the condition of your existing windows. You can get an accurate estimate of the cost by having them examined by a professional.
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 has slim and discrete frames, meaning you can attain 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. They can also be purchased with a tilt function, which you can activate by releasing the catch on your secondary glazing panel and then lifting it vertically to a preset point. This is ideal for windows that don't get frequently opened. It can also be used to allow air conditioning access to bay windows. You can use them to open the middle sash in a traditional sash Bay Window to create a symmetrical appearance.