Tag - sash window repairs

Why Mortice & Green Is the Trusted Choice for Sash Window Repairs and Restoration in London
31 Jul

Why Mortice & Green Is the Trusted Choice for Sash Window Repairs and Restoration in London

Sash windows are one of the defining features of London’s period properties, adding timeless elegance and architectural character to homes across the capital. However, years of exposure to the elements can leave even the highest-quality timber windows suffering from draughts, rattles, broken cords or deteriorating timber. While some homeowners assume replacement is the only option, professional restoration can often return original sash windows to excellent condition while preserving the unique charm of the property.

Choosing the right company is essential to achieving long-lasting results. Sash window restoration requires specialist knowledge, traditional joinery skills and a thorough understanding of historic buildings. At Mortice & Green, we have been providing expert sash window repairs and restoration in London since 1994, helping homeowners protect and enhance their original timber windows through quality craftsmanship, honest advice and exceptional customer care.

More Than 30 Years of Specialist Experience

Experience plays a vital role when restoring traditional sash windows.

Every period property is different, and original timber windows often require a tailored approach rather than a one-size-fits-all solution. Understanding traditional construction methods, historic joinery techniques and the way older timber behaves allows experienced specialists to carry out repairs that preserve both appearance and functionality.

Since being established in 1994, Mortice & Green has successfully restored, repaired and manufactured sash windows for homeowners throughout London. This extensive experience allows our team to diagnose problems accurately and recommend the most appropriate solution for every property.

Preserving Original Character Wherever Possible

Many original sash windows can be restored rather than replaced.

Instead of removing historic features unnecessarily, professional restoration focuses on repairing damaged timber, replacing worn components and improving performance while retaining the window’s original appearance. This approach helps preserve the architectural integrity of period homes while extending the lifespan of existing windows.

Where replacement is genuinely required, bespoke hardwood reproduction windows can be manufactured to match the original design, ensuring the property retains its traditional character.

Our aim is always to preserve as much of the original craftsmanship as possible.

Comprehensive Sash Window Services

Sash windows can develop a wide variety of issues over time, each requiring specialist attention.

At Mortice & Green, we provide a complete range of services, including sash window repairs, refurbishment, renovation, draught proofing, sash cord replacement, wooden window restoration, bespoke hardwood sash windows and replacement windows where necessary.

Whether a window is difficult to open, suffers from rattling, has damaged timber or requires improved thermal performance, our experienced restorative joiners have the expertise to deliver the right solution.

This comprehensive service allows homeowners to address multiple issues while working with one trusted specialist.

Improving Comfort Without Losing Character

One of the most common complaints about traditional sash windows is heat loss and unwanted draughts.

Professional restoration can significantly improve comfort without compromising the appearance of the windows. During refurbishment, discreet draught-proofing systems are integrated into the parting and staff beads, reducing rattles while helping improve insulation and heat retention.

For homeowners looking to enhance energy efficiency further, existing sash windows can often be upgraded with slimline double glazing while preserving their original style.

These improvements allow period properties to enjoy modern comfort while maintaining their historic charm.

Specialists in Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings

Many London homes are located within conservation areas or are listed buildings, meaning window work often requires specialist knowledge.

Mortice & Green has extensive experience working on properties where preserving the original appearance is essential. Our bespoke hardwood reproduction windows are carefully manufactured to match existing proportions, profiles and detailing, helping satisfy conservation requirements where replacement is necessary.

We also advise homeowners on planning considerations and listed building requirements, providing confidence that work is carried out sympathetically and professionally.

This expertise makes us a trusted choice for period property owners across London.

Honest Advice Every Time

Choosing between repairing and replacing sash windows can sometimes be difficult.

At Mortice & Green, we believe every customer deserves honest, straightforward advice based on the condition of their windows rather than the most profitable option. We carefully assess each property before recommending the most appropriate solution, ensuring homeowners receive practical advice tailored to their individual needs.

This transparent approach has helped us build long-term relationships with clients who value quality workmanship and genuine expertise. Providing the right solution, not simply the most expensive one, has always been central to our business philosophy.

Skilled Craftsmanship That Stands the Test of Time

Restoring sash windows successfully requires exceptional attention to detail.

From replacing worn sash cords and pulley wheels to repairing timber and balancing window weights, every stage of the restoration process must be completed with precision. High-quality workmanship not only improves the appearance of the windows but also ensures they operate smoothly and continue performing reliably for many years.

Our experienced restorative joiners take pride in every project, delivering repairs and restorations that combine traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques where appropriate.

The result is beautifully restored windows that complement the character of your home while offering improved performance.

Family Values and Personal Service

As a small, independent family-run business, Mortice & Green offers a level of personal service that larger national companies often struggle to match.

Every project is approached with care, professionalism and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction. From the initial survey through to the completed installation or restoration, clients receive clear communication, reliable service and meticulous attention to detail.

By maintaining the same values established when the company was founded, we continue to provide a service built on trust, craftsmanship and long-term customer relationships.

Why Choose Mortice & Green?

Mortice & Green has been providing professional sash window repairs and restoration in London for more than 30 years. Our experienced team specialises in restoring original timber sash windows, carrying out expert repairs, draught proofing, refurbishment, slimline double glazing upgrades and bespoke hardwood replacements where required.

We combine traditional joinery skills with modern restoration techniques to deliver outstanding results while preserving the unique character of period properties. Whether you’re dealing with rattling windows, broken sash cords, deteriorating timber or planning a complete restoration project, we provide honest advice, exceptional workmanship and outstanding customer care from start to finish.

Restore Your Sash Windows with Confidence

Beautiful sash windows deserve specialist care. Choosing professional sash window repairs and restoration in London allows you to preserve your property’s original character while improving comfort, energy efficiency and everyday performance. With experienced craftsmen carrying out every repair and restoration, you can enjoy windows that look exceptional and continue performing for decades to come.

If your sash windows are in need of repair, refurbishment or restoration, contact Mortice & Green today. Our experienced team is ready to help you protect your period property with expert workmanship, honest advice and a commitment to quality that has been trusted by London homeowners since 1994.

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Why Timber Windows Are A Great Choice For Your Home
16 Feb

Why Timber Windows Are A Great Choice For Your Home

Timber windows are a fabulous asset for any home. Apart from providing gorgeous aesthetics, they are affordable and require little maintenance. Here is why you should consider installing timber windows.

The Benefits Of Timber Windows

Extremely Energy Efficient

Timber windows are brilliant at reducing air leakage and conserving heat. Therefore, during the winter months, you can rely on them to keep your home feeling warm and toasty. Additionally, they can help you save money as you won™t have to be overly dependent on your central heating system.

Good For The Environment

Timber is a renewable resource which means many units can be created without damaging the environment. This is especially impressive when compared to less sustainable materials such as plastic that harm the welfare of our planet.

Easy To Maintain

Timber and wooden windows are incredibly durable and can last for extended periods. Plus, apart from the occasional cleaning with a soft cloth, there is no need to invest in maintenance. At most, you may need to repaint your timber windows if they acquire any scratches.

Cost-Effective

Timber windows are relatively cheap to install and last for long durations. So when installing them you don™t need to worry about buying new windows after a few years of constantly spending money on repairs.

Increase Property Value

It has been found that timber windows vastly increase property value. This is due to their stunning aesthetics and their sustainability. Hence, if you plan on selling your property in the future, installing timber windows may help you get a healthy return on your investment.

If you want to install timber windows, feel free to get in touch with us. Call 02071189191 or email us at morticeandgreen@mail.com.

At Mortice and Green, we are specialists in window installation, repair and replacement. It doesn™t matter if you want sash or casement windows we can provide everything you need. Our team consists of professionally trained restorative joiners who are vastly experienced.

In addition, we pride ourselves on offering outstanding service to all our customers. We provide expert advice and we strive to give you the best deal.

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Sash Windows
14 Dec

The History and Evolution of Sash Windows | Mortice & Green

There is some debate as to the exact origin of sash windows, but they can be traced back to somewhere in the 13th century in Europe. Although they may not have been worthy of the ˜window™ title at that point, they were more like vertical sliding wooden shutters. Flash forward 300 years and by the end of the 16th century they had evolved into a form we would recognise today but were able to slide horizontally. Then, sometime in the 17th century the French noticed that it was safer to use vertical sliding windows as they didn™t open inward which causes impediments to the residents of the building.

Vertical Sliding Sash Windows

The sophisticated style of sash windows soon moved across the channel and became a fashionable status symbol across Britain and the colonies. Many earlier casement windows were replaced with sash windows in notable buildings such as Kensington Palace and Hampton Court Palace. Soon after that sash windows were used almost exclusively in any building from a royal residence to a simple cottage.

  • Evolution of Sash Windows

Georgian Sash Windows

In 1666 something happened that would further shape the evolution of sash windows, a fire started on Pudding Lane and grew into a four-day blaze that destroyed an estimated 13,200 houses. After this, building regulations were drastically overhauled in an attempt to reduce the risk of further fires and inhibit their possible spread. The regulations stipulated that timber window frames should be recessed behind the brick façade, leading to the development of Georgian architecture.

Victorian Sash Windows

The Victorians lavished ornamentation and decoration on their homes. Curved horns, multi-ached heads, intricate mouldings, leaded lights and lattice work started to appear in combination with sash windows. The windows were often grouped into impressive bays and offset with ornate stone.

Edwardian Sash Windows

Beginning when Edward VIII became king in 1901, and lasting only util 1920, when he died, the Edwardian period borrowed from the eras before it, combining the best of Georgian and Victorian. Although the period was only short, there was a housing boom in this era which means the architecture of that tine heavily dominates our present homes.

Modern Sash Windows

The modern design of sash windows has continued to be developed and refined as new techniques and materials appear and are incorporated into the windows. At Mortice and Green, we are pleased to continue with this process of development. Sash windows offer you a degree of beauty and history that modern windows just can™t compete with, so we are always eager to do everything we can to repair and preserve them. Get in touch if you want to know more about how we can help you restore your windows to their original beauty.

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12 Feb

sash window repairs in London

When it comes to sash window repairs in London, this is a fairly common undertaking. It’s fairly common that over time your sash window starts to develop wear and tear, but this doesn’t necessarily mean your window needs to be replaced. Instead it could just be that you need some refurbishment and repairs did to the window and/or sill.

Sash window repairs in London are not the easiest thing to fix but they can be done by a professional with the appropriate skills and tools in order to offer competent London sash window repair service. With stuck or broken windows repairs can be done by yourself or with the help of a contractor. Sometimes windows can be a source of heat-loss in many homes. They can stick and refuse to open if they have swollen from humidity. If you have blinds on the inside of your window they may refuse to work correctly. There are many things you can do as a homeowner or business owner to ensure that your Mortice & Green window work properly.

One of the biggest issues that people face is windows that refuse to open. The wooden windows north have a higher risk of getting stuck especially in older houses. Many times this is caused by a window which has recently been painted and the paint seals around the window and keeps it closed. In this instance the solution is an easy one: all you have to do is break the paint seal and clear all of the tracks from debris. Once this is done all you have to do is lubricate the tracks and they will work right fine.

If this does not fix the issue then you need to check the tracks. The tracks which are located above the sash window may be blocked as a result of paint build up. You can take a hammer and a chisel and use them to remove any of the paint that has been left behind on the tracks. You can cut out the paint that has tried thickly but be careful not to make a gouge in the wooden tracks. You can then smooth out the window tracks using sandpaper. Once this is done you should spray it down with lubricant.

Should this not work to repair the issue then you can use a pry bar from the outside of your sash window. Start with the flat end of the bar and insert it beneath the sash window. If you need additional leverage, then you can set scraps wood underneath the bar. You should then pry at the corners gently and move toward the center of the window. Be careful because too much pressure can cause damage to the window frame as well as the sash. Once you have opened the window you should clean off the tracks and apply a silicone spray to lubricate the tracks. If the problem persists, then call upon a carpenter for London sash window repair service in order to fix it instead of trying to force it open.

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17 Nov

Double glazing existing single glazed sash windows, a good idea?

If you have sash windows and you live in the UK then you have probably heard about the possibilities of replacing 4mm glass with a slim-line double glazed unit to upgrade your single glazed sash windows to double glazed sash windows.

If you have not then I will explain.

The idea first came to fruition around 12 years ago but didn™t become popular due to technological limitations of double glazed units at the time making it near on impossible to hide the old fashioned large double glazing spacer behind the inner moulding of each window.

Glass companies soon exploited the initial idea and came up with new double glazed units with much smaller discreet spacers and very slim units that had all the same thermal benefits of traditional double glazed units.

This new line of slim-line double glazing has now made it possible for property owners to double glaze existing sash windows in period houses without compromising the properties original architectural heritage.

People living in conservation areas that previously could not have double glazed sash windows due to the massive change in the appearance of the window can now do so without stepping on the local conservation officers toes!

This development has seen a huge rise in the amount of companies providing this service and as you might imagine there are also many chancers trying their hand at doing it too!

Be warned if the process is not done correctly or the wrong glass is used you may end up with sash windows that end up falling apart a year or two after the work is done, or if the gaskets are exposed to sun light and not properly hidden behind the beadings of the window they will degrade and you will have misted up windows.

It is far better to have the windows inspected by a reputable sash window company like Mortice and Green first to confirm suitability and then make sure the company carrying out the sash window work knows what they are doing and is using the correct materials and glass.

There are other options to upgrading your sash windows that are comparable in price and in some ways better too. One way is to have the fixed box frame fully restored and have reproduction sash windows manufactured to replace the old single glazed windows.

The new sash windows should be identical in every way other than the fact they will have been designed for slim line double glazed units as opposed to 4mm glass.

Once fitted, the replacement sash windows will provide the same level of thermal protection as complete replacement sash windows, with far less costs and hassle than replacing the entire box sash window.

You should also remember that a double glazed sash window that is fitted into a box frame that is not properly draught proofed is not going to be any better than a single glazed sash window! The double glazed window relies on the window to be properly insulated against draughts.

You would be surprised to hear just how many windows I see across London every month that are double glazed but not draught proofed, I often wonder just what the heck the so called œsash window repair expert was thinking as he fitted the new double glazed sash windows into the draughty un-insulated box frame? It is a real puzzle¦

If you are considering having reproduction sliding sash windows made then why not give us a call? We can double glaze your existing sliding sash windows or if you prefer we also manufacture solid Oak double glazed reproduction sash windows as well!

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