Sash windows are typically found on Victorian, Regency or Georgian properties. They lend an elegant timeless feature to these stately homes. There is much to learn regarding the style and restoration to retain history when choosing new sashes, like residence 9 windows, for renovations.
What Exactly Is a Sash Window?
The term “sash” is in reference to single frames that are glazed and slide up and down to open or close the windows. The window opens and closes by balancing a sash that has a counter-weight comprised of steel, lead, or cast-iron within the hollow boxed frame of the window. They may also be insulation that is retrofitted within the pockets of such older styled windows.
While such windows are typically seen on Victorian, Regency or Georgian properties, they may also be found in Edwardian houses and other timeless homes that are typical of historical note.
Styles of Sash Windows
It’s important to retain the timelessness of such historical homes. When sash windows are replaced, it’s important to consider retaining the period-style of the home. There were a variety of developments and changes to the sash styles over the years so it’s important to determine the right year.
Typically, sash windows are comprised of small panes that are sometimes referred to as “lights”. These panes, are held together via glazing bars or astragal bars. This tends to create larger areas of the glazed glass. At the time, glass manufacturers didn’t have the ability to create large expanses of clear glazing so they used smaller sizes and matched them up.
Is It Better to Repair or Replace Sash Windows?
Always keep in mind that you’re trying to retain a time period. That being said, you’ll not want to make the mistake of removing the timber sashes of that particular time frame and using newer more modern versions of the timber sashes. This would detract from the particular era that you’re attempting to retain.
Always restore and waterproof the current sashes if it’s at all possible. This will help to maintain them and avoid any potential further damages to the home.
Benefits of Repairing
When original windows are retained and repaired, they keep their original character and charm of the home and the theme. The homeowners will benefit from improved thermal dynamics thanks to double glazing and they will have fewer drafts when the original frames are retained and only the glazing is repaired or replaced. The original timber is typically higher quality than that of today’s more modern products.
Cost of Restoration vs. Repairs
As long as the original frames of sash windows are retained, the glazing can easily be replaced. Renovations vs. replacement will not only retain the overall character of the time period, but they will also be far less costly. Single glazed panels may be upgraded to slender double-glazed panes. Newer sashes can then be fit into the currently existing frames. This is typically estimated to be approximately £1,000 per window.
What Materials Should Be Used for Replacements?
Depending on the era that is being retained, timber sash windows for those in the Conservation Area or for buildings that are listed on the National Historic Registry should retain as much of their originality as possible. Plastics can’t even begin to replicate the same effect. They must be durable and work properly as an insulator as well. If properly maintained, these will last indefinitely.
PVCu Sash Windows
Sometimes this is written as uPVC. It’s a common substitute for wood that’s been painted and usually, it is white. Available in a wide array of finishes and colors, it’s designed to mimic a photo-effect wooden finish.
- Lower Maintenance
- These are energy efficient and typically can’t be recycled.
Composite Sash
These are becoming quite popular as they are composite in construction. The newer products are frequently of timber on the interior and aluminum cladding on the exterior. On the inside, they will retain the look of classic wood.
- On the outside, these are very low-maintenance.
Glazing
Modern regulations for buildings have made it just about impossible to install singled glazed windows on a new house. You might have to make the sacrifice of true authenticity to upgrade. However, you can often install a single glazed window on a renovation.
Double Glazed
When you divide up the smaller sized units it can look clumsy however, there are many ways to do this efficiently. Bond Mock bars work well and look very similar. You can also use spacer bars between the sheets of glass but it’s not as cost-effective.
Triple Glazed
These are readily available in a variety of styles however, they may cost much more. Thankfully, they no longer carry the stigma that they previously did.
