What Is A Sash Window?

In today’s modern age, very few people recognise and appreciate a well-crafted sash window, which shouldn’t be the case. The team at Premier Windows believe that everyone should have at least a bit of background knowledge of sash windows, hence why we have created this guide covering what a sash window is, as well as listing a few of the key benefits of installing a sash window into your home. 

The history of sash windows

Although there is no evidence to suggest that sash windows were first designed in England, there are examples of where the windows were installed in homes throughout the country from the late 17th century. Soon after, they became one of the most popular window customs, taking over from the much-beloved casement windows that were previously the most popular window style. 

Since then, they have become increasingly popular up until the 20th century become well under the way, there the use of hinged windows became increasingly in demand, meaning that sash windows soon became a notable feature on period properties. That being said, they are still very popular across the UK, where most homeowners install sash windows for aesthetic reasons which we are going to mention later. 

How do they work?

Most traditional sash windows are designed with two, sometimes more, glass panels, where one of the panels slides over the other to open the window space. It’s likely that the sliding process is completed vertically, where it’s expected that the fitted panel will be on the top half, so that the bottom panel can be lifted to allow the breeze to flow through. 

The window itself works through a counterbalance system, where the opening sash will be hung to a cord which is then attached to a counter-weight so that it can then be raised or lowered depending on your needs. For aesthetics, this whole system is then hidden within the window frame, making the whole window design very sleek and functional. 

Notable benefits

• Aesthetically pleasing

If you are keen to add style to your home, then sash windows are the way forward. As you might have gathered already, they are still very popular amongst traditional English towns and villages due to the appeal that they offer. Even then, many traditionalists still install classic sash windows into modern homes to increase the overall aesthetics and feeling that sash windows offer. 

• Environmentally friendly

Compared to alternative window solutions, they are also extremely environmentally friendly, especially when you take a look at the process required. The timber often used requires the least amount of processing, creating and transporting rather than any other material used for windows, making them a very friendly material to use. 

• Ease of use

Due to the counterbalance system that we mentioned above, it’s also safe to say that sash windows are also fairly easy to use. Due to this, they are a highly popular solution for elderly homeowners, as they can easily use the window without the requirement of any help or complex mechanics. 

Upgrade yours today

With all that being said, most original sash windows are being replaced with the new and modern alternative, uPVC sash windows. Instead of using traditional timber, these windows now utilise uPVC, a synthetic plastic polymer that can be made to often replicate wood. This new alternative has been proven to be much stronger, more durable and more efficient compared to timber, as well as looking just as classic, which is a key factor. 

Helpful Tips To Maintain Your Sash Windows

Ever since their conception in the late 17th Century, sash windows have become one of the most popular window choices due to their aesthetics and ease of use. However, due to the traditional nature of sash windows, which are made of timber, they can easily be prone to damage and ageing, which we don’t want to see.

To ensure that your sash windows remain functional and appealing, the friendly team and Premier Windows have created this guide with a few helpful tips to maintain your sash windows to the best standards. 

Paint your windows regularly

Timber can become extremely deteriorated if they aren’t cared for correctly, though this can be helped by simply painting them. Ideally, the timber frame should be repainted every 3 to 4 years to keep them preserved, whereas a simple coat of standard paint is bound to see results. There are of course specific timber paints that might be more suitable, so it could be worth looking around for the most suitable paint for your window frame.  

Oil the window system

As the window operates on a counterbalance system, it’s vital that all components can operate smoothly to guarantee the very best operation possible. A few of the most notable aspects include the general frame, the mechanics inside and the counterweight, further ensuring that the window is able to function correctly. 

Replace the cord

Within the same area, it’s also important that the cord for the counterbalance mechanism is also replaced. Even if the cord isn’t completely broken, by using a damaged cord you are potentially risking damaging the mechanic system even more, as well as putting the glass sashes at risk of damage. The process of replacing the cord is simple enough, simply remove the sashes from the window frame, where you will then have access to the hinge used to hold the cord up. 

Keep it clean

Like with almost anything, there are right ways, and of course wrongs of cleaning. The same goes for sash windows, where it’s more than likely that you are attracting dirt, or potentially damaging their window. For instance, when you are cleaning the window panes, it’s suggested to use a microfibre cloth rather than paper towels, as this creates static which will invite more dirt and grime to appear. 

Install suitable security measures

Your window is one of the most vulnerable areas for your home, so it’s vital that they are safe and secure to the highest levels. For that reason, installing suitable security measures is also advised to guarantee that misappropriate use isn’t possible, which will prevent any damage from occurring.

Regularly check them

Above all else, it’s also vital that you simply regularly check your sash windows. There is no way of knowing that your window or the mechanics are damaged without checking them on a regular basis. Obviously, this doesn’t have to be every day, but carrying out a complete check on the window is advised to guarantee no issues are occurring. 

Is your window beyond repair?

Unfortunately, some sash windows are simply beyond repair, which is where we can help. Here at Premier Windows, we have gained a glowing reputation thanks to our team’s ability to create and install world-class timber sash windows that are fitting to your home. Unlike most traditional sash windows, our team also uses double-glazed glass, enabling an increased lifespan and overall better quality. 

Would Sash Windows Transform Your Home?

If you have completed any amount of research into the styles of windows which are currently circulating on the market, you will no doubt already be well aware of the wide variety that you can choose from. Some people will argue that from an aesthetic standpoint, nothing is able to beat timber. Others are firm advocates that uPVC is the way to go. Here at Premier Windows, we have a different view – regardless of the material, it is sash windows that represent the best choice. You can find our reasoning on the matter down below.

Low-Maintenance Option

Though it may not be something that you are giving much thought to, the chances are that you will not want to purchase windows which require attentive maintenance all year round. Thankfully, this is not an obstacle that you will encounter when you have sash windows installed. These units have been designed so that they can be cleaned extremely quickly, and do not need much in the way of servicing. Should you be someone that appreciates the simple things in life, this is the course of action to take. 

Reduced Environmental Impact

As you may have noticed, during the twenty-first century there has been a conscious effort made to try and reduce the harmful impact that we, as a species, have on the environment. Should you be determined to be part of the solution, it may be worthwhile purchasing a set of top-tier sash windows. Timber sash windows are always sourced from sustainable locations, using harvesting methods which do not adversely affect the forests. This, coupled with the fact that the products can be recycled when the time comes for them to be replaced, ensures that your carbon footprint can be kept to a minimum.

High-Class Visuals

Understandably, when you are looking to invest significant sums of money into replacement windows, you will want them to be flawless from a visual perspective. If you purchase double-glazed windows that come in a sash style, the end result is one that you will have no complaints about. Available in countless different colours, you can easily put your own creative stamp on your property. Whether you want to stand out from the crowd or blend into the background, you can be sure that you won’t be left dissatisfied.

Ability To Insulate

Although this is a point that can be made about the majority of windows which are manufactured in this day and age, it can be seen more clearly with sash windows. For those of you that live in a property that regularly falls below what is regarded to be a ‘comfortable’ temperature, you may be surprised to learn that sash windows are adept at insulating. Due to the tightly-knit fibres that can be found in the design, you no longer have to worry about thermal energy seeping out with ease.

Want To Find Out More?

Have you been spending hours upon hours scouring the Internet for a company that can offer sash windows in Lewisham, but have been unable to find one that lives up to your high standards? Do you have the feeling that your property could benefit immeasurably from the installation of sliding sash windows with double-glazing, and want to push forward with a purchase? In instances such as these, you would be hard-pressed to find a better company to assist you than Premier Windows.

When it comes to windows and doors suppliers in Lewisham and the surrounding areas, few could hope to match the extensive nature of our catalogue. Not only this, but we are adept at providing first-class customer service. Case-and-point, if you need any information regarding the energy efficiency of our products, feel free to direct your queries to us by calling 020 8683 4446. We will gladly answer all questions that you may have.