How to Choose the Right Sash Window Company for Your Home

Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian Sash Windows

There are three main types of sash windows in Britain, and these have been an architectural feature for over 200 years. These windows can tell you a huge amount about the history of a property. 

As home owners become more interested in conserving the historic features of their home, they spend more time maintaining and caring for their sash windows, and they may become more curious about how old their sash windows are, and what they have seen throughout their history. 

Types of Sash Windows

Single hung sash windows are the oldest design, these date back to Georgian times, they have only one section and this moves with a single pane of glass.

The Georgians were also responsible for developing this style into double hung sash windows. These were then taken on into the Victorian and Edwardian age. These windows feature panes placed in a variety of arrangements including six-over-six, four-over-four, nine-over-nine and six-over-two.

There are also horizontal sash windows, these have two sashes that slide sideways, as opposed to up and down. This design is far less common than conventional sash windows, so if your house features these you are very lucky.

If you have been unable to match your sash windows to the above designs, your architect may have gone rogue and added their own personal touch.

Periods of Sash Window Design

Georgians particularly adored the six-over-six design of the double hung sash window, they also introduced smaller panes of glass that were separated by glazing bars.

Victorians, in contrast, preferred one large pane of glass. They chose to feature their larger sash windows on the ground floor, and smaller sash windows on the upper floor. 

Edwardians adopted a, somewhat random, multi-pane approach, they used multiple panes of glass on the upper sash and a single pane of glass on the lower sash.

Whichever style of sash window your home features, we can help with sash window restoration, ensuring they look as good as the day they were designed. 

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How Do Sash Windows Work

Sash Window Operation Instructions

Sash windows are vertically opening windows that consist of two framed window sashes, one positioned in front of the other. This style of window unit sits in frames with vertical grooves, which allow them to move up and down smoothly. The up and down movement is assisted by counterbalances which are weights on cords and pulleys.

When closed, the top and bottom sash will be locked together at the midrail to prevent them sliding. There may be handles attached to the sashes to help you open them, depending on the window design.

The window can be opened by sliding the bottom sash upwards or, if you have a double hung window, by sliding the top sash downwards.

Sash windows can be fitted with complex hinge systems that allow the window to be locked on one side while the counterbalance on the other side can be detached. This is a helpful feature that can allow the window to be opened to let fresh air into your home, to get out, or to clean.

The design of sash windows also have benefits such as:

  • They look good: they follow a smart aesthetic and increase the value of the building.
  • Sash windows are safe & secure: only one panel can open at a time meaning that they are a lot more difficult to break into than cement windows. It is also easy to have additional features added for safety precautions such as locks and child safety devices.
  • Low maintenance: modern sash windows have a very low risk of warping and rotting as they are made of metal and plastic. You don™t need to sand them or apply coats of varnish either. More traditional sash windows are made from wood, but with appropriate care and maintenance they will have a long life.
  • Environmentally friendly: timber-framed windows are environmentally friendly as it uses the lowest amount of energy in its processing, production and transport. It also has a very long life-span meaning it won™t have to be replaced as regularly as other windows.
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How Do Sash Windows Work

How Do Sash Windows Work?

Sash windows do not open on a hinge. A traditional ˜sliding sash™ window is usually made up of two sashes that slide up and down (or side to side), one in front and one behind, in vertical grooves, counterbalanced by lead weights on cords.

Each sash window consists of two window frames (sashes) which are suspended by a cord. The cord passes through each window frame following a pull system which is connected to a heavy counterforce of steel, cast-iron or lead which is concealed within a hollow box frame allowing the frame to open and close.

Benefits of Sash Windows

Sash windows are a great option for homeowners who are looking for stylish, energy efficient window fittings.

  • Sash windows allow you to add that desired look of period homes which can add value to your property.
  • Installing sash windows will allow you to make the most of modern technology with:
    • increased window security.
    • reduced noise and air pollution.
    • improved energy efficiency.
    • reduced heating bills.

Double Glazed Sash Windows

Double glazed sash windows are like traditional sash windows, however they have the added benefit of double glazing which is made up of two panes of glass compared to a traditional sash window that only has one. Double glazing has multiple benefits such as:

  • Fewer draughts
  • Lower heating bills
  • Increased thermal efficiency
  • Less condensation on the inside of the window
  • Increased security

Types of Sash Windows

There are three styles of sash windows that are available to choose from:

  • Georgian: six over six panes
  • Victorian: two over two grid design
  • Edwardian: six over two pane design

Types of Frame Materials

Sash windows were traditionally made from wood but today, the opinions has widened to a variety of materials such as:

  • uPVC – low maintenance, energy efficient and the cheapest option.
  • Aluminium – more expensive but the strongest and best for security and durability.
  • Composite – wood on the inside and clad with aluminium on the inside and are weather resistant.
  • Timber – very durable and good insulators.

 

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Why Bespoke Hardwood Windows Are Worth the Investment

Victorian Sash Windows | Mortice & Green

Sash windows are one of the most popular styles in the world, and especially in the U.K. Their timeless aesthetic never fails to impress.

Victorian homes were all about elaborate designs, ways to show off your wealth to your neighbours, and windows are no exception. During the Victorian era it was common for windows to have anything from 4 to 16 panes. The number of sash windows you had, as well as the size of them, indicated your wealth as homeowners. Nowadays, they are not so much a way to show off, but they do add value to your home.

What Makes Victorian Sash Windows Different?

Victorian sash windows are designed with a two over two panel grid on both bottom and top frames. These sash windows offer the perfect balance between ventilation and light. When originally installed these windows would have been single glazed, and so they would not have offered much protection from sound or heat loss, but now most have been replaced with double glazing.

If you do still have the original single glazing we recommend switching it out for double glazing as this is much more energy efficient and sound proof.

Why Renovate Your Sash Windows?

Victorian sash windows that are double-glazed, secure and made from quality timber or uPVC materials offer a huge range of benefits.

  • Easy to maintain: If your windows have been renovated they are relatively easy to maintain. Both timber and uPVC windows require a simple wipe down every few weeks to keep them sliding smoothly.

  • Improved Energy Efficiency: Original sash windows are not known for their energy efficiency, and so if you want to reduce your heating bill switching over to double glazing is a great idea. Double, or even triple, glazing can significantly reduce draughts and make your home feel comfortable whatever the weather.

  • Enhanced Security: Single glazing is relatively easy to break through, and burglars would feasibly be able to unlock your window from the inside and climb in. Double glazing doesn™t present this issue. Renovated sash windows, with secure locking mechanisms, will help keep your window firmly in place.

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Tips for Taking Care of Your Sash Windows

Tips for Taking Care of Your Sash Windows | Mortice & Green

There is a reason sash windows are still so popular, despite being used for over 300 years, their design remains timeless. Regardless of whether you live in a period property with original sash windows, or a modern house that you would like to add some character to with a new sash window installation, maintaining your sash windows is key to keeping them in top condition. Below are some tips on how to do this.

  1. Keep them clean

This is one of the most important ways of maintaining your sash windows. The glass should be cleaned with a microfibre cloth and glass cleaner. This ensures the dirt is actually cleaned off, and not just smeared around the window pane. The window panes should ideally be cleaned once or twice a year.

  1. Paint your windows regularly

Timber sash windows should be regularly painted in order to prevent the wood from deteriorating. Not only does the paint prevent you from having to arrange a total sash window restoration, but it also improves the appearance of the windows. For optimum health your sash windows should be painted every 3-4 years. Make sure to thoroughly clean them before painting.

  1. Beware of window sticking

One of the most commonly encountered problems with sash windows is that they stick when sliding up and down, when they are meant to glide smoothly. The most common culprit for sticking is a bad paint job, a bad paint job can almost seal the windows in place. In order to remedy this issue run a sharp object along the edge of the frame.

  1. Maintain the insulation

A large percentage of heat from your home can be lost thanks to poorly insulated windows. Gaps around the edge of your windows can allow cold air to flow into, and hot air to flow out of your home. If you notice there are gaps around your sash windows you may want to call a sash window repair company, as this will be costing you money on heating bills.

  1. Check your windows for rot

One of the most common issues sash windows suffer from is rot. The fungus that causes rot thrives on wet wood, and the more it wears the wood down the deeper it can penetrate. It also causes paint peeling and black blemishes which means the windows will lose their aesthetic appeal. If the rot damage is superficial, a simple sash window repair. If the rot has penetrated too deeply you will need a complete sash window restoration.

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Mortice & Green

How to Reduce Sun Glare Through Your Sash Windows

We try hard not to complain about the sun, as we can™t run the risk of seeming ungrateful for what little of it we get, but if there is one thing that niggles us its sun glare through our windows. Sun glare can make reading or watching television problematic, and it will also heat up your house pretty quickly if it gets the chance. Thankfully, you don™t need to close all the curtains and live in the dark, there are a few ways you can minimise sun glare through your sash windows.

  1. Install a Window FIlm

Anti-glare window film can reduce glare by upto 95%. One of the main benefits of putting a film on your sash windows is that it doesn’t block out the light completely, as curtains and blinds do. Instead, the film allows high levels of light to pass through but blocks 99% of the sun’s harmful UV rays which can cause fading. So, window films not only protect your eyes from glare but they also protect your carpets and upholstery.

  1. Make use of Awnings and Shutters

Awnings and shutters can minimise sun glare without totally blocking out all light from your home. The sun is at its hottest and highest at midday, so this is when glare is heightened. Adding an awning above your sash window can block out direct sunlight during this phase.

Alternatively, installing shutters onto your sash windows means you can change the angle of these throughout the day to block out the glare whilst still allowing light into your home.

  1. Plant Strategically

Plants may not be the first things that spring to mind, but they can tackle the problem of sun glare very well. Trees and shrubbery are amazing sources of shade. One thing to bear in mind, however, is that many trees will lose their leaves throughout winter and so you should look into evergreen foliage that will not shed in winter.

These tips will help you enjoy the odd sunny day we get here in England, without having to deal with pesky sun glare.

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Which are Better: Casement or Double-Hung Windows?

There are two main types of sash windows, casement windows and double-hung windows, each have their own advantages and disadvantages. If you are looking to decide between the two, you will need to weigh up the pros and cons before deciding which is best for your space.

What is a Casement Window?

A casement window is a type of sash window that has hinges on the side, where it attaches to the frame. They may open inward or outward, but usually it is outward.

Pros of Casement Windows
Different glazing options
Good ventilation
Many different design options
Can fit to many types of frame

Cons of casement windows
Not suitable for use with air conditioning units
Casement windows are not suitable for storm windows
No potential for adding screens
Some casement window frames will not be strong enough for larger size windows

What is a Double Hung Sash Window?

A double hung sash window is a design with 2 separate sashes, those being the top and bottom window. Both of these slide up and down. If it is a single hung sash window then the top window will be in a fixed position, and only the bottom window will move.

Pros of Double Hung Windows
Easily ventilation and ability to control air flow
Suit traditional and contemporary buildings
Simple to clean inside and outside of the glass
Suitable for air conditioning units and other additions
Wide variety of colours and designs

Cons of Double Hung Windows
Possibility of air leaks, more so in older wooden windows
Fewer options in terms of sizes, in comparison to casement windows
Complex opening and closing mechanisms, which may require maintenance
Mixing double sash windows with other windows can ruin the aesthetic

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How to Paint Sash Windows

How to Paint Sash Windows | Mortice & Green

Maintaining your sash windows can be tricky, they are traditionally made of wood which means they need to be cleaned and caulked in a certain way, to prevent cracks from forming. One of the most difficult aspects of maintaining them is painting them, as you can easily end up sealing the sash window if you don™t paint them carefully. This guide will give you an idea of how to paint your sash windows properly.

  1. Remove the hardware

The first thing you need to do is remove the hardware such as the handles and locks. Leaving these on the windows will mean they are in the way and could also mean they end up covered in paint. 

  1. Sand down the wood

Painting over old layers of paint is also a bad idea, as eventually the layers of paint will build up so much that the window will stop closing properly. Therefore, you should take the time to sand down the wood and sand off the old layers of paint. Following on from that thoroughly clean your sash windows, to get rid of the dust and debris you created when sanding.

  1. Choose the right paint

Think about what colours will suit your home, also you should bear in mind that if the windows are in the sun a lot the colour may fade, so you might want to go for a brighter colour than you first thought. You could test the colours on a mock frame before committing to painting your sash windows.

  1. Paint the glazing bars

Start the painting process by focusing only on the glazing bars first. You will need to reverse the sashers so that you can access every part of the window. Start with the top sash then leave it to dry and continue with the bottom sash.

  1. Paint the frames

Once you start painting the sash window frames you should also start by painting the top first. Avoid pushing the sash all the way up until the paint is dry, otherwise they will stick. 

  1. Paint the rest of the window frame

Once you have done the glazing bars and the frame you can paint the other parts of the sash windows, such as the cills and casting. Leave the sash windows the dry fully, before you reinstall any hardware elements.

  1. Clean off paint splatters

If you find any paint splatters on your sash windows you can remove these fairly easily with a window scraper. Just make sure you do this gently, applying too much pressure could break or crack the glass.

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Reasons Why You Should Invest In Sash Windows

Nowadays, the current global situation is quite discouraging. We are living during an unpredictable time, but one thing is for sure, we are spending more time at home and for some of us, this has meant making plans on how we can improve our home and invest in our future.

Many of us are looking for ways to improve the overall look and value of our house, and sash windows are a perfect choice.

Sash Windows London

Why Now Is A Good Time To Choose Sash Windows?

Value to Home

Add character and charm to your house with beautifully installed sash windows. If you want to refresh the look of your home and find methods to increase the value of your property, installing sash windows is a great way to plan for the future. They look classically stylish and are built with longevity in mind.

Health Benefits

The increase in natural light can boost moods and productivity, a reduction in allergens and dust from old windows and blinds. Better security measures can provide peace of mind and a more climate-controlled environment which are all part of how we can stay mentally and physically healthier.

Great choice For Any Home

The wood used is a natural insulator ensuring you stay warm all winter. One thing is for sure, we will be home a lot more often this winter so comfort, beauty and windows that are environmentally friendly will make all the difference to our general mood (and carbon footprint).

Wondering if Sash Windows is the right choice for your home?

Sash Windows

From classic bespoke designs that can suit any property style to low maintenance costs which facilitate a reduction in the utility bills due to their draught-proof installation, there are so many reasons why investing now in sash windows is the right choice for your home.

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Sash Windows - Mortice & Green

Sash Window London – Mortice & Green

Turn your house into a home with classic style¦

Whether you are restoring, repairing or replacing your windows or perhaps looking to add some extra value to your residential or commercial property; Sash Windows are an attractive choice.

  • Durability

The combination of wooden panels, unyielding fibers in the timber and cellulose makes these windows incredibly robust. Withstanding fierce weathers, once you invest these windows will stand the test of time.

  • Aesthetically Pleasing

This classic style makes any property more attractive. Thinking about selling? These windows will add significant worth to your home while being impressive for viewings and valuations. Adding character to your home, the wooden frames incorporate classic style that never goes out of fashion.

  • Bespoke

Installed to your house shape and design, sash windows can offer a tailored feel to any home. Carved, sanded, stained ad painted to your preference; you can decide on the overall look to suit the style of your property.

  • Maintainable

Metal and plastic windows tend to last longer and are accessible and straightforward to clean. Easily repairable, these windows often need very little aftercare but repairs are possible and are generally inexpensive.

  • Money Saver

Friendly to the environment the windows are a natural insulator, so no need to crank up the heating. Saving on bills is a huge win, win. The combination of the material and construction makes them draught resistant, keeping cold air out and making your home nice and toasty in.

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