If you’re lucky enough to find a house with its original sash windows, treasure them. This blog answers all your questions about sash windows and provides five benefits of choosing secondary glazing when you want to restore or improve them.

What is a sash window?

A sash window is made of one or more movable panels, or ‘sashes’. 

The frames holding the glass sashes slide open and close in grooves. They usually slide vertically, hung on cords or chains and are counterbalanced by metal weights housed in a box frame. 

Their clever design makes sash windows more sophisticated than regular casement windows which are hung on hinges and swing open like a door.

When were sash windows developed? 

The oldest surviving examples of sash windows were installed in England in the 1670s, famously at Ham House near Richmond in Surrey.

Huge numbers of late Victorian and Edwardian suburban houses were built in England using standard sash window units and many survive today.

Why do people replace sash windows?

Sash windows are lovely and characterful, but they are often inefficient. Common problems include rattles and decay of the wooden framework but the biggest problem is they are draughty and can make for a cold home. 

To help get around that issue, read our blog which provides a number of clever heating hacks to keep your Victorian house warm in the winter.

How do I maintain my sash windows? 

Regular painting helps fend off decay and also makes your windows look their very best. Specialist sash brushes are available which have pointed ends to help you achieve a smooth finish.

If you are considering facelifting your sash windows, read our helpful blog with six top tips to refurbish your Victorian home.

Why shouldn’t I replace my sash windows?

If you want to replace your original sash windows with regular casement windows, you will undoubtedly damage the character of your period home. You may face issues with permission from your local council too, especially if your home has a listing or is situated within a conservation area. 

In these circumstances you may find secondary double glazing is the best option for your windows. They help retain the original character of the home, while making the house more efficient. 

What is secondary glazing?

Secondary glazing is the installation of a second glass layer behind an existing single-glazed window. Secondary glazing is much more flexible than commissioning new made-to-measure double glazed units and replacing single glazed windows with them. 

The installation of secondary glazing is much more flexible and it’s a job that can be tackled by proficient DIYers. 

Five benefits of opting for secondary glazing

There are five main benefits of choosing secondary glazing over sash window replacement.

1. Improved heat retention

Secondary glazing improves heat retention by reducing draughts and preventing warm air from escaping through gappy sash windows.

2. Better security

Secondary glazing provides an additional protective barrier against intruders helping to keep your home safe and secure.

3. Sound insulation

An extra layer of glass will provide additional insulation between your home and noises from the outside world, such as traffic, sirens, car alarms, overflying aircraft and music played by your neighbours. 

4. Little maintenance

Secondary glazing is less disruptive than replacing windows. Frames need little upkeep, requiring only occasional lubrication and cleaning.

5. Easier on the pocket

With a faster installation and fewer materials needed, secondary glazing is more affordable than replacing all the windows in your Victorian home with double glazed units.

Looking to insure your Victorian Home?

Adrian Flux is a specialist insurance company offering bespoke cover for all period and Victorian homes. Call 0800 369 8590 to get a fast and hassle-free quote or book a callback at a time that better suits you.

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