How Secondary Glazing Can Improve Your Sash Window Insulation
If you're interested in the advantages of double-glazing, but are unable to replace your existing sash window, or do not wish to do so, secondary glazing could be a viable option.
It's a cost-effective option that increases insulation and decreases draughts without altering the original appearance. It is a good option in situations where property deeds stipulate that original features must be kept.
Improved insulation
If your house is older and you have sash windows, it can be difficult to make them as insulated as you'd like. This is often due to the limitations of planning or the difficulty of changing windows that are traditional without risking losing its unique charm. Secondary glazing can be an ideal way to boost the insulation of your home. This is the process of adding a second piece of glass to the existing frame, thereby adding an extra layer of insulation to keep your home warmer for longer and cut energy costs.
replace window sashes that is added to the existing sash window frame serves as an insulator by trapping air and retaining warm in your home. As well as this the second pane also helps to block out noise from outside. This is especially beneficial if you reside in an area that could be extremely noisy, since it helps to maintain the peace and tranquility inside your home.
It is important to remember that, while secondary glazing will improve the insulation of your home however, it will not be as effective as double-glazed windows. The gap between the two panes will not offer the same level of thermal efficiency as a double-glazed window.
We provide a range of secondary glazing options that are that are specifically designed to fit your original windows in sash and the needs of your home. We can design secondary glazing that can be opened alongside the original sash windows, giving you the benefits of increased efficiency in energy usage without having to give up the beautiful windows of your heritage.
This kind of solution is particularly popular in listed buildings and homes within conservation areas, as it lets you enjoy the benefits of increased energy efficiency without having to compromise on the look and feel of your home. We can achieve a superior degree of insulation by using new techniques like double-glazing with vacuum, while allowing sash windows open.
We also provide a range of decorative finishes that will match your existing sash windows and add to the overall appearance of your home. This includes blinds, shutters and curtains, all of which can also increase the thermal efficiency of your home by acting as another barrier to stop cold air from getting in.
Reduced noise
Sash windows are a vital element of a lot of homes. However, they can be draughty and noisy. Installing secondary glazing is one method to increase the insulation of sash windows. This is a low-cost solution that can improve thermal efficiency and reduce outside noise. It is also a great solution for older homes because it preserves their original design and helps to protect the structure from intrusion.
There are a myriad of styles and sizes of sliding secondary glazing, so you can choose the right suitable for your home. Fixed inserts are aluminium frames that can be put in the sash window you have already installed. They can be fixed permanently, or semi-permanently, according to your requirements. They're a straightforward DIY option for homeowners looking to improve their home on their own.
A wide selection of glass is offered, including toughened safety glass as well as laminated acoustic glass. Using acoustic glass in the secondary glazing can help reduce outside noise and can improve the privacy in your home. This is especially important if you are living close to a busy road or in a noisy area.
Secondary glazing can reduce noise pollution and make it easier to enjoy your home. It's also a good idea if you have children or pets, because it can cut down on the amount of noise that is filtered into your home from outside. Moreover, it can help to prevent external sounds from disturbing your sleep cycle.
If you live in a historic or listed building, it may not be feasible to install a double-glazed windows without altering the design of your home. But, you can increase the energy efficiency of your sash windows by adding secondary glazing. It's a cost-effective, durable solution that can provide numerous benefits, including reduced noise, improved security, and improved heat retention.
The greatest benefit of secondary glazing is that it can be installed within your existing sash windows, allowing you to keep the beauty and character of your property while improving its energy efficiency and insulation. It is also much cheaper than replacing your windows with new ones.
Improved aesthetics
An excellent option to replace your windows that have sash with double glazing, secondary glazing can be added to create another glass pane within the existing frame. This creates an insulating barrier that substantially reduces heat loss and increases the efficiency of the home. It also helps to reduce noise levels from outside creating a tranquil and quiet environment. It is also a cost-effective method to increase the insulation of your home without altering the appearance of your home.
The addition of a second glass layer to the sash windows you already have provides excellent insulation, reducing the loss of heat by as much as 60%. It will keep your home warmer for longer and will save you money over the long run. It can also help to reduce the risk of black mould and condensation, as the secondary glazing prevents moisture from getting into the window frames made of wood.
There are a myriad of secondary glazing options that work for different sash window types. Some systems have an sash that can be closed and opened and closed, while others are fixed, or open only to let air flow in. There are also options that do not require a mullion or transom which makes them suitable for listed and historic properties. There are a myriad of colours and finishes available to ensure you find the perfect style for your home.
It's an excellent option for historic or period homes that can't afford to replace their sash windows with identical replacements. It's a popular option for those who live in conservation areas or listed structures where the windows on their property are limited.
Secondary glazing has a slim sightline which doesn't interfere with the original sash window. This is a great choice for homeowners who are looking to upgrade their existing windows with sash to reduce noise pollution and increase energy efficiency.
Reduced condensation
Condensation is a common problem with windows with sash. It occurs when the warm air inside the property meets the cold surface of the window, which causes droplets of water to form. This can cause damp and mould problems in the house. Secondary glazing can help to alleviate this issue by creating an additional layer of insulation that prevents the transfer of heat between the window and the room. This will allow you to keep your house warmer for longer with less energy use and also saving money on heating costs.
The addition of an additional pane of glass can also improve the acoustic properties of windows made of sash. It dissociates the sash's movement from the frame, which reduces resonance between the two and limit the leakage of sound. The second pane can be improved in acoustical efficiency by using acoustic laminated glass or a thicker glass.
As opposed to double glazing, sash window secondary glazing does not require the removal of the existing window. Instead, it simply adds a new pane of glass to the existing window frame. This makes it an excellent choice for listed buildings and heritage properties, where it's often difficult or unattainable to install new double-glazed windows.
Secondary glazing for windows made of sash is available in a variety of different styles including vertical sliders and hinged casements. These are the most popular choices for listed buildings, as they can be installed without mulliations or transoms. This preserves the original appearance of the window. Both styles come with a lift-out option to facilitate cleaning and maintenance.
For properties that don't need regular ventilation, or where opening the sash window could be dangerous, a fixed secondary glass option is available. They can be equipped with a stay to keep them in a pre-determined minimum level, eliminating the need to open manually them. In these situations it is recommended to check the humidity levels with an humidistat. Then, you can take steps to reduce the moisture levels within the building. This may include enhancing ventilation, installing a dehumidifier and addressing any leaks within the building.