A Guide To Timber Sash Windows
Timber windows are an excellent choice for a renovation project or restoration. They suit a range of homes, from heritage properties, period homes or new build such as Poundbury, Dorchester.
As a natural insulator, wood is known for its thermal properties, and we think timber windows could provide the ideal solution for your project.
Design & materials
Timber is perhaps the most versatile of window framing materials. Combining structural performance with natural workability, profiles and mouldings can be worked and reworked unlike UPVC which doesn’t really have any “substance”.
Wood can be detailed with a degree of precision that is difficult to achieve in alternatives, such as aluminium or UPVC / PVCu. This means that timber windows can be machine manufactured or hand made to accurately replicate historical sightlines, glazing bar arrangements and frame details.
We often find when repairing multiple windows from the same buildings that the details are actually different from window to window! This possibly reveals the historical repairs over the years, or the craftsmanship of each individual carpenter involved in the original build.
When considering new windows there are two options:
A - Softwoods
Generally the most cost-effective timber option but can potentially move more (expand and contract) and last less time. Modern windows are made using engineered softwood to improve stability.
B - Hardwoods
Offer a natural, rich grain, long lasting durability and are normally lower maintenance than softwoods – making them fantastic for high-end builds or exposed locations. Hardwood is generally heavier than softwood.
When we conduct repairs to existing windows it is important to note that for any small pieces that get cut out or replaced we generally use the same type of timber that it was originally made of, otherwise the expansion and contraction of the wood is not the same.
Additionally, the weight of the window would change and therefore the sash weights would also need to be changed.
TYPICAL PROJECT
A trio of single glazed double hung sash windows were repaired to restore the character of the property, maintenance repairs were relatively minor – the rot had been caught just in time.
The windows were stripped, sanded, cleaned and re-puttied where required, and all repairs were sympathetic to the rich history. The window restoration came to a total of £10,125.
The result is a bright, clean fully functional set of windows – rescued from rot that was above to wreak havoc.
The windows provide stunning garden views as well as being secure and maintaining the original fabric of the building.
Wooden windows will always require regular maintenance, but the frequency really does depend on exposure and finish.
At Upcycle Interiors or standard finish is two coats of primer and 2 top coats. We would also recommend a minimum of 4 coats.
Following a new paint job the paint will be soft while it cures – potentially for up to 1 month! To prevent it sticking we always instruct our clients to keep the windows open & operate daily during this time.
Properly maintained, timber windows can last 100 years or more, and many historic examples have exceeded this. Of course, the seasons or which direction they face can affect this, and it is important to keep air flowing through and around the windows.
South facing windows will potentially be exposed to more UV radiation or heavy rainfall. Local climate, exposed locations and salt air can all affect the performance of a window over time.
For most timber windows we recommend that an annual inspection is conducted to identify early signs of wear or damage, particularly to painted surfaces and joints.
Minor issues such as small cracks and scuffs can be easily addressed with light sanding and small touch-ups.
COSTS
Timber windows are premium products, and restorations are specialist work.
As a rough guide, the costs below are estimated based on a good-quality 1,000mm wide x 1,600mm high glazed, pair of double-opening double-hung timber sash windows (excluding VAT):
A fully restored, repaired (no replacement joinery) and painted original pair of windows with 4 glass panes, might start from around £1,614, by Upcycle Interiors Ltd.
This would include upgraded draughtproofing to inner bead/parting bead and mid rail, all necessary repairs to the frame, and cill, etc.A brand new pair of sash windows made in a joinery workshop and painted, might start from around £2,800, by others.
This would not include any works to the existing frame, cill or inner bead/parting bead.
Both examples include new sash cords, new pulleys, new D-rings and sash lifts, and new Brighton fasteners.
If the option of new windows is chosen it is very important to check if the windows are only primed, or fully painted with 4 coats of paint. Bare or primed windows must be sealed (painted or stained) as soon as possible after delivery to prevent water ingress.
Get In Touch
✨ Ready to bring your project to life? At Upcycle Interiors, we combine professionalism, trustworthiness, and reliability to deliver results you can count on.
Whether it’s a small repair or a full renovation, we’ll treat your home with the care and respect it deserves.
For fuss-free fixing and finishing,contact us on:
🌐www.upcycleinteriors.co.uk/contact
📧 sales@upcycleinteriors.co.uk
📍 Based in Weymouth and covering all of South Dorset including DT1, DT2 (part), DT3, DT4, DT5, DT6 (part). Please do get in touch here if your area is not on the list
Upcycle Interiors Limited — professional, trustworthy, reliable.
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