Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are unable to build new double-glazed windows to their homes due to financial limitations or because they live in listed buildings that restrict any modifications to the exterior.
Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative to sash windows. It can be put in various ways.
This product is a double-paned glass that fits inside the frame of your window. It provides insulation and noise reduction, in addition to stopping cold air from entering the home.
Fixed Inserts
There are a variety of styles of secondary glazing that are available for Sash windows. Each offers a unique set of benefits, from increased security to less condensation. Which one is the best option for you?
The principle 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.
It's not always feasible to add double-glazed windows, particularly if you live in an listed property or if you are bound by strict planning regulations that dictate what can and can't be done to your exterior.
Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative in these situations. 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 a variety of different systems for secondary glazing on windows made of sash. Each system can be adapted to fit your existing frame. Proprietary systems typically have 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 are still able to be used.
They can be fitted using a variety of methods for installation, including glazing clips or Velcro. These are more appealing than screw-fixed units and are best suited for windows that do not need to be opened often. Alternatively, you can choose a fixed lift-out unit, which can be lifted out and then put back in its place with ease to allow your windows to be opened.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal sliders are the most well-known way to improve existing sash window. They are also quiet and are ideal for historic homes, conservation areas & listed properties. In most cases, they can be installed without external access because they operate from the inside.
They are easy to operate by hand and can be opened wide or left partially open to allow for ventilation. They are effective at preventing draughts, and they also filter harmful UV light. In the summer they can be utilized together with a flyscreen to keep out insects and mosquitoes.
Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems give all the advantages of double glazing for the original sash window. It consists of PVC double sliding track that runs across all four sides of cavity and a simple brush seal around each sheet of glass and a handle for a finger pull angle to function as a hand and decrease bowing. It is available in kits with 1m or 2m of track and angle that can be put together to create bigger spans.
Secondary glazing can have a significant impact on noise reduction, particularly for rail, road and airport traffic. The addition of toughened or laminated glass can further improve acoustic performance. Secondary glazing that is standard can reduce outside noise to 52dB(Rw) and specialist glass such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can provide even greater levels of acoustic performances.
It can improve the energy efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer for longer and reducing reliance on central heating. It is less expensive than replacing the original sash window, and can be installed without the need to remove the existing frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective choice that is usually simpler to manage than a full window replacement. It is also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great option to improve the look of traditional sash windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their distinctive character.
sash window restoration are specially designed for windows with sash openings where standard hinged panels aren't suitable. The system features two secondary sashes, which are fixed one above the other within an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances, allowing for easy movement. The system can be purchased as a 'face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the existing window) for increased thermal performance, or a'reveal fixed version that comes with an air cavity for glass, within the original window reveal, for optimum sound quality.
They can be equipped with a variety handles and stop strips to suit the homeowner's preferences by allowing the bottom or top pane to allow for ventilation, or they can be placed in an open position for additional security. They can also be fitted with an insulating seal bristle to prevent drafts.

Imagine vertical sliders in 'Choices' secondary glazing comes with all the authentic timber detailing you'd expect from an antique window treatment. It's available in a variety of colors to match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to tell apart from the original sash window, with features like the sash's horns and traditional butt joints being incorporated into the design. It is available in many sizes and can accept glass up to 6.8mm for additional insulation against heat loss. A tilt-in option is available that allows the individual sashes to hinge inward on safety stays to aid in cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane hinged secondary glass can be incorporated into windows in sash of any design such as casement and traditional box sash. Our hinged units can be equipped with a keylock handle, and are made with multi-point locking. This ensures that the glazed panel is securely locked in place and pulls tightly against the frame, forming a sealing to minimize loss of heat. Hinged windows can be purchased as either top or side hung and can also be constructed by double-glazing. Double-glazed windows offer enhanced acoustic performances and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) and 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).
Contrary to horizontal sash windows which have movable sashes that slide horizontally within the frame casement windows can open outwards and let in breezes from different angles. They can also be opened from both the top and bottom to offer controlled airflow. They are therefore able to improve 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. However, they can also be fitted into listed homes because they do not require transoms or mullions. They are also a good option for those who live in areas that are difficult to reach since they can be opened by the twist of a handle.
This kind of window could be a disadvantage because it can restrict the use of certain window treatments. They are difficult to clean as they can swing outwards. They also may require regular maintenance and service.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be set up in a variety of ways and the price will vary depending on the thickness, type and materials you choose for your panes and frame. UPVC windows are typically the least expensive followed by aluminium, and then wooden window frames. Specialized glass may also increase the price and also any extra features, such as sound reduction or security.
The complexity of the installation will also impact the cost. The more complicated the project will take longer and require more labor it will require. This is also the case for older homes that have more intricate designs for sash windows.
The best place to begin is by assessing the condition of your existing windows. You can get a reliable estimate of the cost by having them examined by professionals.
In general secondary glazing has a minimal effect on the look of your home. This is due to the fact that modern FINEO double glazing has slim and discrete frame lines, so you can get the most efficient thermal performance without sacrificing aesthetics.
The horizontal sliding secondary glazing option is popular due to its easy access to the sash window to clean or for ventilation. These windows also come with a tilt feature, which is activated by releasing the catch and lifting your secondary glazing panel vertically up to a certain point. This is ideal for windows that don't open frequently and can be used to facilitate access for air conditioning in bay windows. You can also use them to open the middle sash in a traditional sash Bay Window to create a symmetrical appearance.