.avif)
Secondary glazing is a process of adding an extra pane of glass or acrylic sheet to the interior side of your existing windows. It creates an insulating layer that helps to reduce heat loss, improve soundproofing, and maintain the aesthetic charm of traditional sash windows that are already in place. Unlike double glazing, secondary glazing does not require replacing the original windows, which makes it an ideal solution for listed buildings or properties within conservation areas.
The method of secondary glazing is particularly effective for period properties with single glazed sash windows, which are often prone to draughts and heat loss. By adding secondary glazing, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of modern insulation, but without compromising the look and feel of their historical windows.
At Traditional Sash Windows and Carpentry, we specialise in bespoke secondary glazing solutions uniquely tailored to enhance the performance of your sash windows, while preserving their original character. Our experienced team understands the unique requirements of period properties and offers the following range of services to meet your specific needs:
Bespoke Secondary Glazing Design and Installation: Each secondary glazing unit is custom made to fit your existing sash windows perfectly, ensuring minimal visual impact and maximum efficiency for your home.
Comprehensive Assessment: We provide a thorough assessment of your windows to identify the best secondary glazing solution for your property, considering factors such as energy efficiency, soundproofing, and ease of use.
Professional Installation: Our carpenters carefully install secondary glazing units with minimal disruption, using techniques that are sympathetic to the original structure of your windows.
Free Aftercare Visit: Your satisfaction is our priority, which is why we offer a complimentary aftercare visit within 12 months of the installation. We’ll check that everything is functioning perfectly and address any issues that may have arisen completely free of charge.
We can also provide additional services such as sash window restoration, including reglazing and timber repair, to ensure your windows are in the best possible condition.
Our installation process is designed to be as seamless as possible, ensuring that your sash windows retain their original charm while benefiting from the added insulation of secondary glazing. Below is a detailed look at how we install secondary glazing at most properties:
An Initial Consultation, site visit and Measurements: We start with an on site consultation to discuss your needs and take precise measurements of your windows. This allows us to create custom fit secondary glazing units that match the dimensions of each window.
Design and Manufacturing: By using high quality materials, we manufacture secondary glazing units that complement your existing windows. Our units can be designed to open, slide, or remain fixed, depending on your preference and the window’s style.
Careful Installation: Once the units are ready, our team carefully installs them on the interior side of your windows. We use slimline frames and fixings that are both durable and discreet, ensuring the installation does not detract from the appearance of your sash windows.
Final Adjustments and Testing: After the installation, we make final adjustments to ensure the units fit perfectly and operate smoothly. We then conduct tests to check for any air gaps and verify that the secondary glazing is providing the desired level of insulation and soundproofing.
Post Installation Support: We offer ongoing support and advice on maintaining your secondary glazing, as well as additional services if you wish to upgrade or modify your existing installation in the future.
We are committed to using the highest quality materials to ensure that our secondary glazing solutions not only enhance the performance of your windows but also remain in keeping with the aesthetics of period properties. Our materials include:
Glass Options: We offer a range of glass options, including toughened, laminated, and acoustic glass, depending on your specific requirements. Each type of glass is chosen to provide the best balance between insulation and visibility.
Slimline Aluminium Frames: Our slimline frames are made from powder coated aluminium, which is strong, lightweight, and durable. These frames are available in a variety of colours to match your existing window frames.
High Performance Seals: We use high quality rubber and brush seals to create an airtight barrier between the original window and the secondary glazing unit, ensuring maximum insulation and soundproofing.
Secondary glazing offers numerous benefits for period properties, beyond just improving energy efficiency. These include:
Enhanced Thermal Insulation: By adding an extra layer of glazing, secondary glazing significantly reduces heat loss, keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Improved Acoustic Insulation: Secondary glazing can reduce external noise by up to 80%, making it ideal for properties located near busy roads or in noisy neighbourhoods.
The Preservation of Original Windows: Because secondary glazing is installed on the interior side of the window, it does not alter or damage the original sash windows, making it an excellent solution for listed conservation buildings.
Increased Security: The additional pane of glass acts as an extra barrier, making it more difficult for intruders to access your property through the windows.
Condensation Reduction: Secondary glazing helps to reduce condensation on the inner surfaces of your windows, which can prevent mould and damage to timber frames.
Reversible and Removable: Unlike double glazing, secondary glazing is a reversible and removable solution, allowing you to maintain the original fabric of your windows while improving their performance.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you draught proof your sash windows and enjoy a warmer, quieter, and more energy efficient home without compromising on character and charm.
Secondary glazing has been around for centuries, though its use has evolved significantly over time. The earliest forms of secondary glazing were developed in the 18th century as a means of improving the comfort of homes during the colder months. Early techniques involved fitting temporary wooden or metal frames with glass panels inside the existing window openings, which could be removed during warmer weather.
In the 20th century, with the development of modern materials such as aluminium and acrylic, secondary glazing became more popular as a permanent solution for improving the thermal and acoustic performance of windows. Today, secondary glazing is widely recognised as an effective method for enhancing energy efficiency in historic buildings, where replacing original windows is not an option.
Improves Energy Ratings: Installing secondary glazing can raise the energy efficiency rating of your home, making it more attractive to buyers and potentially reducing energy bills.
They Are Used in Historic Landmarks: Secondary glazing has been used in many historic landmarks, including Buckingham Palace and The Houses of Parliament, as a discreet way of improving insulation without altering the original windows.
They Are Effective Against Noise Pollution: Secondary glazing is often more effective at reducing noise pollution than standard double glazing due to the larger air gap between the panes, which helps to dissipate sound waves.
Sustainability Factor: Secondary glazing is a sustainable solution as it helps to reduce the need for heating and air conditioning, thereby lowering carbon emissions.
They Have a Variety of Opening Styles: Secondary glazing can be designed to match the opening style of your existing windows, whether they are sash, casement, or fixed, ensuring that you don’t lose any functionality.
At Traditional Sash Windows and Carpentry, we are passionate about preserving the beauty and heritage of period properties while enhancing their performance. With years of experience working with sash windows and listed buildings, we understand the intricacies involved in installing secondary glazing that complement your home’s unique character. Our bespoke approach ensures that each installation is tailored to meet your specific needs and we use only the finest materials to guarantee long lasting results.
Whether you’re looking to improve energy efficiency, reduce noise, or protect your original windows, our team is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our secondary glazing solutions and discover how we can help you create a more comfortable and efficient home without compromising on style or tradition.
Secondary glazing is an additional internal window system fitted behind your existing timber windows. It creates a second layer of glazing and an insulating air gap, helping to improve warmth, reduce draughts and cut outside noise without removing the original sash or casement windows.It is particularly popular in period homes where preserving the existing timber windows is important.
Yes. Secondary glazing can be made specifically for traditional sash windows, including box sash windows, Victorian sashes, Edwardian windows, curved bays and unusual window openings.Depending on how the original windows operate, we can recommend horizontal sliding, vertical sliding, hinged, lift out or fixed secondary glazing panels. The aim is to make the system practical to use while keeping it as discreet as possible from inside the room.
In most cases, yes. Secondary glazing adds another glazed barrier between your room and the outside, helping to reduce heat loss and cold draughts around older single glazed windows.It can make a noticeable difference in rooms with traditional single glazed sash windows, particularly when combined with a full overhaul and draught proofing service. The exact improvement depends on the condition of the original windows, the type of glazing selected and how well the surrounding frames are sealed.
Yes. Secondary glazing can significantly reduce external noise, especially where there is a good gap between the existing window and the new internal panel.This makes it a useful option for homes near busy roads, railway lines, town centres, schools, pubs or other noisy locations. Acoustic performance varies depending on the type and thickness of glass used, the size of the air gap and how well the system is sealed, so we can advise on the most suitable specification for your property.
Secondary glazing is often an excellent solution for listed properties and homes in conservation areas because it allows the original timber windows to remain in place.As the system is fitted internally, it usually has less impact on the external appearance of the building than replacement double glazing. However, listed building consent or other permissions may still be required in some situations, so it is always sensible to check with the relevant local authority before work begins.
Yes, provided the correct secondary glazing system is chosen. Sliding or hinged panels can be designed to allow access to the existing sash windows for ventilation, cleaning and everyday use.We look at how each window is used before recommending a system. For example, a bedroom window may need easier opening for ventilation, while a rarely opened feature window may be better suited to a fixed panel.
Yes. Secondary glazing can be made to measure for bay windows, curved openings, large sash windows, narrow casements and other non standard shapes.Traditional properties often have windows that are far from square or identical in size. Each unit is measured carefully so the finished panels sit neatly within the internal reveal and work properly with the existing joinery.
Properly designed and fitted secondary glazing should help reduce condensation on the inside face of the original window by keeping the inner room warmer.However, condensation can still occur if there are gaps, poor ventilation or high moisture levels within the property. We make sure that the existing windows, surrounding frames and secondary glazing system are assessed carefully so the right approach is used for the room and property.
It depends on the property and what you are trying to achieve. Replacement double glazed windows may be the right choice where the existing joinery is beyond repair or where a full change is planned.Secondary glazing is often more suitable when the original sash windows are worth retaining, when planning restrictions apply or when the customer wants to improve comfort without changing the building’s external appearance. It can also be a more practical option where replacement windows would be disruptive or expensive.
Yes. In fact, this is often the best approach. Repairing worn timber, improving the operation of the sashes and adding draught proofing first can help create a stronger and more comfortable original window.Secondary glazing can then provide an additional layer of insulation and sound reduction behind it. Together, the two services can greatly improve the performance of older windows while retaining their original character.
The fitting time depends on the number of windows, the style of the units and whether any repairs are needed to the existing timber windows first.Once the units have been manufactured, many smaller installations can be completed within a day. Larger homes, bay windows or more complex systems may take longer. We will provide a clear timescale before work starts.
Yes. Traditional Sash Windows and Carpentry provides secondary glazing surveys and installation services across Kent and London.We assess the existing windows, discuss whether warmth, noise reduction, condensation control or privacy is the main priority and recommend a made to measure system that suits the property.