Everything You Need to Know About Wooden Sliding Sash Windows

Sash windows are not just a desired original feature in a historic property; they are also popular in new projects that want to include heritage-inspired components into the design of a new home. Your encounter with sash windows may be influenced by the sort of home you come across. Original sash windows may be single-glazed, draughty, and have a sagging timber frame to be repaired. What is a sliding sash window?

Although the phrase "sash window" is generally recognized, the reasons behind its name and design may not be. What exactly is a sash window? In layman's terms, it's a window with one or more movable, sliding panels - 'sashes' – placed inside a wood frame. 

Depending on which part you have or choose, a single-hung Sliding Sash Windows is one in which only the bottom sash moves while the top sash remains fixed. A double-hung sash window has both sashes that may be moved.

  

How Do Sash Windows Work?

Insulation can be installed into the counterweight pockets of older windows. Most classic sash windows use a method that balances the sash with steel, cast-iron, or even lead counterweights. This weight is suspended from a rope housed within a compartment within the frame. 

 

Modern sash windows are more likely to use a spring balance or sash balance mechanism. This spring-loaded mechanism counteracts gravity, thereby holding your sash window open without cables, pulleys, or metal counterweights.

 

Is the Sash Windows Worth It?

Sash windows provide a distinction and refinement that is difficult to duplicate in modern construction, particularly in a period-inspired building. Though more expensive than a normal window, whether PVCu or timber, contemporary sash windows will last significantly longer with proper care, making them an excellent investment for your house.

 

A particular property from the 17th to 19th centuries would still be incomplete without sash windows; if you're remodelling a Georgian, Regency, or Victorian property or building a new house encouraged by these periods, installing or renovating sash windows should be your priority in terms to window styles.

 

Do Sash windows need much maintenance?

Any timber window requires regular care to keep its beautiful aesthetics and function over time. Yet, modern stains and other compounds can help lessen the frequency of occurrence. 

More intricate work will need the services of a professional, although specific jobs can be completed on a do-it-yourself basis. Minor cracking or flaking in paintwork is a typical problem that should be addressed every five years for outdoor painting.

 

Is it possible to replace sash windows?

While sash windows can be replaced, whether you're renovating your current house or embarking on a period restoration project, avoid removing timber sashes that may be spared.

Where original windows or box sashes can be repaired, re-conditioned, and waterproofed, it is always worth keeping them since new window sashes may be built to suit the existing frame, minimizing the replacement cost. However, if the windows are beyond repair or none remain, various businesses produce exact replacements.

The wrapping up

Sash windows are also the natural option of window for any traditionalist homebuilder or developer looking to emulate a historic style using current materials and production techniques. SlidingSash Windows are at the heart of many period houses, and many aspects must be addressed when replacing sash windows as part of a home renovation.