Whether you have a property that already has sash windows that you need to replace, or you are planning a new build project and are looking at different window styles that might appeal to you, there is no doubt that timber sash widows are an option that you should consider. There are advantages and disadvantages to a wooden sash window, as with any other window product, and eventually it may come down to a matter of preference. However, by outlining the beneficial properties and characteristics of wooden sash windows below, we may be able to help you make an informed decision.
· Timber has a natural beauty that is very difficult, if not impossible to replicate. With the benefit of modern technology, uPVC manufacturers are able to produce wooden sash windows with wood-grain effects, but inspection makes it quickly obvious that they are not the real thing. The natural grain of the timber can be picked up and enhanced by the use of clear stains or varnish, and over years of multiple coats, the patina of the timber darkens and becomes enhanced. This effect can be further enhanced with window dressings such as bamboo blinds or timber Venetian blinds.
· On balance timber windows are the choice for environmentally conscious buyers. There are various well-known arguments regarding the un sustainability of uPVC and there are lesser known arguements regarding the toxicity of frequent painting of timber windows, but to date timber windows appear to be more environmentally friendly.
The Beauty Of Timber Sash Windows
· If your home is in an area where the residential properties have a heritage value, it is quite likely that the planners will insist or look much more favourably on an application that includes windows made of timber. Added to this is the fact that if your house is of a period vintage, then it is unlikely you will want to look beyond timber as being the material for your windows anyway.
· A well-constructed timber sash window has more strength in the frame than a similar uPVC window. This is especially important with respect to sash windows, which can comprise large areas of glazing. A Georgian, two-sash, six over six window would be one such example.
· If your sash windows are of a certain age, be they comprised of timber or some other material, they are going to need certain levels of maintenance and repair. It is easier for a carpenter to repair portions of a wooden sash window frame, or to carry out repairs to a wooden sash window, than it is to get someone to carry out repair work to a uPVC or aluminium window.
· If you are considering purchasing new sash timber windows, then you have a full range of glazing options open to you. If you already have single-glazed wooden sash windows in your home, there are still many ways you can improve the thermal efficiency of these windows by introducing such things as secondary glazing, heavy interior drapes, etc.
· Timber windows can be painted, over-painted, varnished and stained and you can always clean them down and start again if you wish. This is in sharp contrast to uPVC windows, which come in a certain colour that you cannot alter for the lifetime of the windows.
· Contrary to what you may be told by uPVC salespeople, timber, if properly maintained and cared for in a window, can last for many years and even centuries. Given that uPVC is a relative newcomer to the market, it is difficult to gauge the absolute extent of its lifespan, but seeing as uPVC manufacturers are reporting that much of their present business involves replacing first generation uPVC windows, it would appear that this lifespan is definitely limited.
As we mentioned at the beginning, you can be assured that there are also disadvantages to sash timber windows, and similar to any product, you need to purchase quality timber windows from a reliable manufacturer in order to expect your windows to withstand the test of time. However timber sash windows have proven, due to the mere fact that they have survived for so long as part of our architectural heritage, that they are a window option worth consideration.
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Good work, thanks. Good article on timber sash windows. Thanks for the info.
Great site. A lot of useful information here regarding timber sash windows. I’m sending it to some friends!