Sash Windows
Handcrafted in Britain since 2012
The History of Sash Windows
Sash windows were invented in the mid-17th century and became increasingly popular after the Great Fire of London. Since then, they have become a staple in the London housing stock, with a resurgence in popularity in recent years as homeowners renew or reinstate period features in their Georgian or Victorian properties.
The attractiveness of traditional timber sash windows in period London properties cannot be overstated. Sash windows are designed with slim section profiles to have a minimal amount of timber frame showing beyond the brickwork, to increase the glass area and therefore the light coming into a property. UPVC sash or casement windows don’t follow this design principle and can look bulky or out of place.
Different areas of London display different architectural features based on the design trends of the time in which they were built, and the ambitions of the architects and builders of the time. We can closely match existing styles such as a Bowood or Queen Anne design, which isn’t possible in non-timber sash windows. This means retaining the traditional charm of your property, whilst introducing modern draught proofing and glazing.
Increasing Kerb Appeal, and Property Values
Many of us are drawn to period properties because of their quality construction, high ceilings, well laid out floorplans or simply because of their beauty. However, they do require work to maintain or enhance their appeal. Many original sash windows will now be more than 100 years old and may not be in the best condition, which detracts from the street facing aesthetic. Replacing your windows with new, timber, double-glazed sash windows will not only transform the street-facing appearance of your property, but also increase the value and desirability of your property.
Handmade in our UK Workshops
At WSW, we specialise in manufacturing timber sash windows for London homeowners, handmade and hand painted with Teknos paint in our UK workshop. This means you can choose everything, from the configuration of your windows to the exact colour of your paint. We will create the design, manufacture and install windows for your property, improving aesthetics, insulation and soundproofing. Our windows are made from Scandinavian kiln-dried redwood, which is strong and robust, though if you would like to use a different wood type we are always happy to accommodate you.
Frequently Asked Questions
One of the most important considerations in these designs is the longevity of the products. We understand that replacing your windows is a costly endeavour and our customers would not want to be replacing the same window every 10 years. We also take traditional designs & styles into account when manufacturing windows & doors, trying
to ensure replacement windows are as sympathetic to traditional styles as possible. Some parts of your new windows may not be the same as your original. This is because we need to combine all of these considerations to ensure we provide the highest quality window, which is exactly what we do.
All the sash windows and other windows and doors that we supply are fully compliant with Document L Building Regulations. New sash windows, casement windows or doors that fit into existing frames are not required to comply with regulations as such work does not affect the structure of a building. Listed buildings and conservation area properties may be exempt from regulations – your local planning authority will be able to advise you if you are unsure.
That depends on your budget. It can be cheaper to repair your windows, but replacement is the better, long-term solution. We can undertake a site survey to determine which option is best for you.
We are members of and certified by FENSA, which allows us to self-certify our installations as compliant with building regulations.
As standard, our sash windows are fitted with a Hardwick hook lock and roller stops.