Dating back to the 17th century, sliding sash windows are known for their traditional style and vertical operation. Classed as an elegant and timeless window design that has been around for hundreds of years, sliding sash windows are still an incredibly popular choice within UK homes today.
In this blog, we’re taking a closer look at this historical style to identify why it’s a fantastic choice for those on the hunt for brand new windows not just for period properties and listed buildings but also more modern buildings. We’ll cover everything from the concept and design of sliding sash windows to their incredible benefits and features.
With this informative guide, you should have everything you’ll need to decide whether this elegant window is the right choice for you and your home. Read on for more.
Understanding sliding sash windows
As the name suggests, sliding sash windows are a specific style of window which features two vertical sliding panels that move within the window frame.
At Bereco, we offer two unique sliding sash styles including ‘sliding sash spiral balance’ and ‘sliding cords and weights.’
As the most popular style of sliding sash windows, spiral balance includes maintenance-free, semi-concealed, in-frame spring loaded spiral balances. Whereas our cords and weights feature lead or steel weights and nylon sash cords and draught proof axel pulley wheels.
This unique design not only enhances the overall aesthetic of heritage properties but, thanks to advances in window technology, modern sliding sash windows also deliver high-security qualities and outstanding thermal performance.
Should I invest in timber sliding sash windows for my home?
If you’re restoring a period property, remodelling or building a home and want to replicate an authentic traditional window style, we’d say a sliding sash is a perfect fit for you. To get the best results, we’d also recommend opting for a classic building material which is long lasting and looks incredible.
Quality timber which has been specially manufactured into sliding sash windows presents an iconic and timeless appearance that perfectly suits period properties and heritage buildings. Plus, when treated and designed to the highest of standards, the timber is incredibly robust and high performing, helping to keep homes well insulated during the colder months.
Opting for timber sliding sash windows means that you’ll have a full range of design elements and characteristics to choose from. From hundreds of paints, stains and finishes to various handles, glazing bars and mouldings, you’ll be able to pick a sliding sash window that perfectly complements the style of your home and also ticks all of the boxes from a building regulations perspective.
Sliding sashes that deliver exceptional energy efficiency
With Bereco sliding sash windows featuring double glazing, homeowners are likely to see great results as they can successfully achieve U-values as low as 1.2 W/m2K. This is 15% better than what’s required by the latest building regulations and will mean that the windows can effectively keep warm heat inside the property.
For those more eco-conscious homeowners, we also offer triple glazing units which are ultra energy efficient. When combined with our sliding sash frames, our triple glazed windows can achieve incredible U-values of 0.8 W/m2K and 43% better than the required building regulations.
Long-lasting quality timber windows
Thanks to the durability and robustness of our timber, homeowners investing in our sliding sash windows will be making a long-term investment. With a life expectancy of up to 60 years, our timber sliding sash windows are relatively low maintenance and when properly cared for last twice as long as aluminium and uPVC sash windows.
Regulations and permissions for timber sliding sash windows
Timber sliding sash windows are a hallmark of heritage building thanks to their timeless charm. They make the perfect replacement to existing windows in period homes located within conservation areas as well as listed buildings, where regulations and requirements are typically quite strict.
If you do live in a listed building and need to seek planning permission for your new windows, we’d always recommend speaking to a member of our team. We have been working within the timber window and door market for 20 years and have lots of experience with the latest British standards and building regulations so we can offer you advice on what products would work for your next home improvement project.
How do I design bespoke timber sliding sash windows for my home?
At Bereco, we’ve been working with timber for the last two decades and know from experience what an incredible building material it is. Our friendly team of specialists have a broad range of knowledge to help you design the perfect windows for your home. If you think sliding sashes could be the perfect fit for you, get in touch today to create a truly bespoke set of timber windows.
