Traditional timber windows give a property much of its character, but single glazing can leave rooms feeling cold during the Scottish winter. FINEO vacuum glazing offers a potential route to better insulation while retaining suitable existing sash and case windows.
We are assessing customer demand for FINEO as a potential addition to our services. Supply, installation arrangements, prices and lead times are subject to confirmation.
What is FINEO vacuum glazing?
FINEO is vacuum insulated glass manufactured by AGC. Two sheets of glass are separated by a very narrow vacuum cavity to restrict heat transfer. The manufacturer lists FINEO 8 at approximately 7.7mm thick, with a centre-pane U-value of 0.7 W/m²K. This is a glass performance figure, not a whole-window rating: frames, seals and installation also affect the finished result.
Can FINEO be fitted into existing sash windows?
It can be incorporated into suitable existing frames, but every window needs an individual assessment. A slim unit does not mean that every original sash can accept it without modification.
- Condition of the timber and glazing bars.
- Dimensions and depth of the glazing rebates.
- Glass sizes and specification.
- Added weight and its effect on sash operation and counterweights.
- Repairs or alterations needed before installation.
Improving the complete window
Upgrading glass is only one part of improving a traditional window. Loose joints, damaged putty and gaps around moving sashes may also need attention. Explore our sash and case window restoration, draught proofing and sash cord replacement and rebalancing services.
FINEO or secondary glazing?
FINEO replaces the existing glazing. Secondary glazing adds a layer on the inside while retaining the existing glass. Our Gecko secondary glazing guide explains a removable panel option for which we are also gathering interest. You can also read about heritage slimline double glazing.
Listed buildings and conservation areas
The significance of original glass and joinery needs careful consideration. Do not assume that a discreet glazing upgrade is automatically acceptable. Please identify any listed status or conservation designation when enquiring so relevant requirements can be checked. Read our listed building and conservation window guide.
FINEO glass and vacuum glazing cost in Scotland
There is no single fitted vacuum glazing price that suits every sash window. A glass-only price does not include the same work as removing and refitting sashes, repairing timber, adjusting the balance system and making good the finish. We have not yet confirmed our FINEO prices or supply arrangements, so the information below explains what a future project quotation would need to cover.
What affects the cost of vacuum glazing?
- Pane sizes and number: record the number of individual panes as well as the number of complete windows. A multi-pane sash involves different work from a sash with one large pane.
- Glazing specification: the chosen unit and any safety-glass requirements must suit the application and manufacturer’s limits.
- Existing joinery: rebates, glazing bars, joints and sills need checking before deciding whether original sashes can be retained.
- Sash movement: changed glass weight may require suitable counterweights, cords or other adjustments.
- Access and finishing: upper floors, access equipment, preparation, decoration and internal making good can change the scope.
What should a glazing quotation make clear?
Ask whether the figure covers glass supply only or complete fitting. It should identify any timber repairs, removal and refitting, balancing, finishing, access costs and VAT. Product availability, lead times and applicable warranty terms should be confirmed before committing to work. The manufacturer also advises that cost depends on the individual project; see the FINEO manufacturer’s FAQs.
Vacuum glazing, slimline double glazing or secondary glazing?
Vacuum glazing uses two panes separated by a very narrow evacuated cavity. Conventional double glazing uses a sealed gas-filled or air-filled cavity. Secondary glazing adds a separate internal pane or window. These constructions need different installation details, so “vacuum double glazing” should not be taken to mean an interchangeable standard double-glazed unit.
| Option | What changes? | What needs checking? |
|---|---|---|
| FINEO vacuum glass | Existing panes are replaced where the sash can accommodate the specified unit. | Rebates, glazing bars, pane sizes, timber condition, balancing and installation compatibility. |
| Slimline double glazing | Suitable sealed units replace the existing panes, or are incorporated into suitable replacement sashes. | Unit depth, edge sightlines, glazing details and the condition of retained joinery. |
| Secondary glazing | An additional internal layer is installed while the original glazing remains. | Reveals, shutters, opening access, appearance and cavity ventilation. |
For alternatives, compare heritage slimline double glazing, secondary glazing and our sash-window glazing cost guide. For original or listed windows, the importance of historic glass and any consent requirements must also be assessed.
Frequently asked questions
Will FINEO fit every sash window?
No. Timber condition, rebate dimensions, glass sizes and installation requirements must be checked.
Does better glazing remove the need for draught proofing?
No. Heat transfer through glass and air leakage around a sash are separate issues.
How much will it cost?
Prices are not yet available. Any future quotation would depend on specification, dimensions, preparation and associated joinery work.
Register your interest in FINEO glazing
We welcome FINEO glass enquiries throughout Scotland, including Stirling, Bridge of Allan and Dunblane. Project coverage, product suitability and any future installation arrangements will be confirmed individually. Send your postcode, photographs and approximate number of windows. Registering interest does not commit you to an order.
Call 07710 096553 or email premierjoiners@gmail.com.