Our client was insisting that double glazing the sash windows was a must, it was just a question of whether to manufacture new sash windows, or convert the existing ones to house encase double glazed units within the existing sash windows.

 

The question of which of these 2 options to pursue is usually decided by several factors – what is the structural suitability of the current sash windows, are they thick and strong enough to be able to encase the heavier and thicker double glazed units? Do the current sash windows have any rot or deterioration within them, and if so, is it uneconomical or not to repair? And are these existing sash windows the originals, or if not, are they at least faithful imitations of the originals?

 

The sash windows on this job passed all of these “tests” with flying colours. Unusually thick sashes at 55mm (the typical late Victorian sashes are around 45mm), made out of beautiful, solid Douglas Fir, with not an iota of rot and they were indeed the original sash windows, with a classic lamb's tongue mould. After considering these points, the client's decision was easy - these original sash windows were to be kept.

 

When keeping the existing sash windows, as opposed to replacing them, the majority of the work gets done on-site, rather than in the workshop. Carefully removing the single glazed glass and cutting the glazing recesses deeper to allow of the thicker double glazing is a time-consuming and gutty job. But the results are well worth it.

 

The noise and cold coming through these sash windows are now a thing of the past for our client and his family. These grand sash windows will see many generations to come, keeping the external facade of the house looking excellent and letting in much light into the tall rooms.