What Is A Sash Window?
November 28, 2013 
Sash Smart Ltd is a family run company that has been specialising in bespoke hand crafted sash windows since the start of the millennium.
Sash windows are very stylish and on the top 5 list of must have features for period homes. Advanced glass technology has enabled the original design to become extremely thermal efficient in today’s eco-friendly world. When fitted with our draught proofing system sash windows improve further bringing comfort, whilst retaining all the character to compliment your home. In this article we will look at the history of the sash window as well as the benefits.
For a quick overview of our company and the service we can offer have a look at our video here:
The history of the sash window
The sliding design of the sash window can be traced back as far as the 13th century. However the design we recognise today (a vertical slide opening with a counter balance) was attributed to the English scientist and inventor Robert Hooke. Many Georgian and Victorian houses in England have this design.
Sash window design
1 and 11. Top and Bottom Rails: The upper part of the framing is rebated on the outside while the lower rail frames the bottom.
2. Jamb or Box Frame: – Frame consisting of three sections of timber. The stile (8) is the vertical section of the frame.
3. Cord: A waxed sash cord is best- this is the part that keeps each weight held. A spiral balancer is another alternative and an expert should be able to show you what is most effective for you.
4. Weight Pockets: Each of these weights hangs in each individual pocket formed by each timber situated on either side.
5 and 6.Parting and Staff Bead: The parting bead is positioned in a vertical direction so that the top sash can be kept in place while the staff bead is designed to maintain air tightness as well as keeping the lower sash in place.
7. Meeting Bars/Rails: These horizontal parts of the frame are positioned where each sash comes together in the middle. The adjoining bevelled faces keep the sides held together.
9. Apron: Panel or cladding situated beneath the window and mainly used for aesthetic purposes. These may not be featured on all sash box designs so if you want one check the description before ordering or ask if it can be added.
10. Box Cill: Horizontal section at the bottom created to be placed within the base. Specifically shaped to reduce water damage because it diverts water, ensuring it flows outward rather than back towards the house.
12 and 15. Weight and pulley wheel: A key part of sash window design- Two lead weights designed to counter balance each other. The wag tail (13 also known as a “parting slip”) is the timber positioned inside so that these weights can be kept separate from each other.
In order to ensure that this can be opened safely both the sash and weights need to weigh the same amount. The pulley wheel creates the motion that opens and closes the windows.
14. Timber Linings: These sections form the casings of the box frame and are hollowed out in order to position the weights in place.
16. Glazing Bar: This framing member (may be horizontal or vertical) divides the panes within each stiles and rail. Each one is rebated (a cut which forms a groove) to keep single-paned glazing in place or on replacement bars double glazing.
17. Soffit Lining: Consists of the main inner/outer timber linings as well as a separate soffit lining; Triangular shaped blocks are glued and added to the lining in order to strengthen it.
The benefits of sash windows
- Distinct style- Excellent for older Victorian or Georgian houses or houses that have been designed in this style.
- Improved air flow- It is easier to slightly open the window that is not as easy with a standard window. The lower part of the window can be opened to allow cooler air in while the upper part of the window can be opened to allow warmer air out. Ideal for hot days.
- Double glazing- While a lot of older sash windows are single glazed it is possible to get a double glazed like for like window whilst still retaining the existing box frame. As well as increasing the security of your home this also provides additional insulation, helping to cut fuel bills in the long term!
- A simple design that works well and is easier to maintain or add draught proofing than other window designs
Contact us today!
Our father and son team is at the heart of our business. We ensure that you get a professional service from start to finish from a company that has a passion for what we do and are extremely proud of our reputation.
Simply contact us online today and we can give you an instant estimate and you’ll soon find out that there’s a good reason why we’re called Sash Smart!
Services we offer
Some people may spend a lot of money replacing sash windows when they simply need a bit of TLC. Our first aid for your windows includes:
- Cord replacement
- Rebalanced sashes
- Levelled sashes
- New beads and fasteners as required
- Old and flaky putty replaced
- Part replacements of the box frame
- Draught proofing
Sash repairs keeps the windows working for years to come, in a safe condition.
Did you know? If a sash cord wears and snaps it can be dangerous to operate as the whole weight is held on one cord and usually results in a sliding sash crashing down. If you are in any doubt contact us for a free site survey and quotation.
What is a Sash Window?
August 10, 2013 
A sash window or hung sash window is made of one or more movable panels or “sashes” that form a frame to hold panes of glass. Although any window with this style of glazing is technically “a sash”, the term is used almost exclusively to refer to windows where the glazed panels are opened by sliding vertically, or horizontally. The design of the sash window is attributed to the English scientist and inventor, Robert Hooke. The oldest surviving examples of sash windows were installed in England in the 1670s.
The sash window is often found in Georgian and Victorian houses, and the classic arrangement has three panes across by two up on each of two sashes, giving a “six over six” panel window, although this is by no means a fixed rule. This type of window provides a maximum face opening for ventilation of one-half the total window area.
A significant advantage of sash windows is that they provide efficient cooling of interiors during warm weather. Opening both the top and bottom of a sash window by equal amounts allows warm air at the top of the room to escape, thus drawing relatively cool air from outside into the room through the bottom opening.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sash_window
