Wooden Double Glazed Sash Windows

Sash windows, although attractive in more traditional styled homes, can give problems with drafts and poor insulation. Often this is due to age, as many Victorian and Georgian homes still have the original wooden sash windows. While wooden frames are certainly attractive, if not regularly maintained they can warp and rot leading to problems.

Wooden double glazed sash windows solve insulation problems because the double glazing provides a barrier between the cold outside and the interior of the house. Replacing single pane sash windows with double glazing allows you to retain the charm and character of your home without sacrificing comfort. Double glazing is more energy efficient and it provides a measure of sound proofing too.

Although wooden double glazed sash windows will be more expensive than uPVC, they do have a more elegant, traditional appearance. In listed buildings and conservation areas, wooden sash windows are the only option available.

The quality of the wood is important to consider. Wooden double glazed sash windows can be made from hardwood or softwood, but a multi-layer manufacturing process will offer more protection from swelling and warping as this method of construction makes the frame more resistant to moisture. Regular maintenance and treatment of the timber to protect it from the elements will prevent these problems from occurring. If well looked after, wooden double glazed sash windows can last a hundred years or more.

Wood also offers you a variety of options in terms of the finish. You can apply a clear varnish or wax to allow the natural beauty and colour of the timber to shine through, or use a colour stain to match your home’s paintwork. You can also paint the wood in any colour. Sanding and revarnishing or repainting should be done once a year to ensure that no moisture seeps into the wood.

Wooden double glazed sash windows can be easily dismantled and repaired or replaced, which uPVC types cannot. This means that sections of glass or one of the frames can be replaced at far less cost than replacing the whole window – a distinct advantage if you have children kicking balls around.

There is much debate as to whether wooden window frames or uPVC frames are more environmentally friendly. On the one hand, wood does destroy natural forests. uPVC is plastic, and with all the carbon emissions that manufacturing and recycling it produces, it can hardly be considered eco-friendly. If you are concerned, make sure that your wooden double glazed sash windows are made from sustainable timber.