How effective are your acoustic sash windows?

Our acoustic sash windows go up to 49dB in our Ultra range – that’s the best you’ll find on the market. Our Soundproof and Soundproof+ ranges go up to 40dB and 43dB respectively. But it’s not just our windows that stop sound coming in.

Our installation process has been finely tweaked to ensure the best possible results. From using acoustic sealants and tapes, to isolating the window from the wall, our expert installers have been highly trained to prevent any air gaps that sound could get through.

It is important to note that your windows will only be as effective as your property itself. If you have noisy air vents, chimneys or other entry points for sound, you will still suffer from noise pollution.

Can your acoustic sash windows be installed in conservation areas?

We have bespoke heritage and conservation ranges designed to be installed in properties in conservation areas. Crafted to look like your pre-existing windows, we can match any paint finish, as well as replicating fine detailing. You get to retain the aesthetic of your property, while benefiting from much improved modern noise reduction.

If you are unsure whether you need to get planning permission to install new windows in your home, we are happy to give you free, impartial advice.

Do I need secondary glazing to soundproof my sash windows?

No. Our soundproof sash windows have been designed and acoustically tested to prevent noise pollution getting into your home. We have spent years in research and development to provide the market-leading soundproof sash, reducing noise by up to 49dB. Finely crafted to keep the authentic look of your home, these windows will address most moderate to high noise complaints.

That said, the design of a sash window does not allow for the same level of noise reduction as our other windows. You see, with a multi-point locking mechanism, and whole-window seal system, we can boast reductions of up to 51dB in our casement, tilt and turn, and secondary windows.

If you have the cill space to accommodate, and the noise complaint is severe, we do recommend installing secondary glazing instead of simply replacing your sash windows. This is not as aesthetically pleasing as retaining your original style window, but will dramatically increase noise reduction.

Can I install acoustic glass in my sash windows?

It is possible to install acoustic glass within your existing sash windows, but there are three key things to bear in mind:

– Acoustic glass tends to be a lot heavier than standard glazing. This will put considerable strain on your existing window frames and can lead to failure.
– Acoustic glass is also a lot thicker than standard glazing (single glazing is ~4mm, acoustic glazing tends to be a minimum of ~15mm), meaning older sash windows are unlikely to be able to accommodate acoustic glass.
– The performance of acoustic glass is only as good as the window it is fitted in. If the window itself hasn’t been acoustically treated, installing acoustic glass will be pointless.

Can you replace windows in a grade 2 listed building?

Yes, but you will need to get planning consent before you carry out the installation. To replace single glazed windows with double glazed, you will need to install narrow profile units such as our Heritage Soundproof Sash range. In many cases, it will be easier and more effective to install secondary glazing inside the existing window.

How do you maintain a sash window?

Our sash windows are manufactured with engineered timber. This ensures that the wood will not swell or shrink over time, and requires very little maintenance. That said, there are a few simple steps you can take to ensure the longevity and beauty of your windows:

– Use non-abrasive soaps and a little warm water to clean the frame of your windows when required.
– Open your windows every so often to ensure there has been no build up of gunk that can cause them to stick in place.
– Regularly inspect your windows for any faults that develop. If they are covered by our guarantees, we will be happy to come and repair them at your convenience.

What is secondary glazing for sash windows?

Secondary glazing for sash windows requires placing a window frame and glazing on the inside of the pre-existing unit. For most secondary glazing solutions, there should be at least a 100mm gap between the two windows. However, with our high performance secondary window, we only need a 5-10mm due to their advanced locking and seal systems. A two glazing system will dramatically reduce noise when compared to standard sash windows.