What is Secondary Glazing?

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.

Our Secondary Glazing Services

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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. Professional Installation: Our carpenters carefully install secondary glazing units with minimal disruption, using techniques that are sympathetic to the original structure of your windows.

4. 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.

How We Install Secondary Glazing

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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

The Materials We Use

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.

The Benefits of Secondary Glazing

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.

The History of Secondary Glazing

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.

Interesting Facts About Secondary Glazing

• 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.