Guest Blogger: How to Give Your Sash Window a Full Makeover

Guest Blogger #632, Entry #1506, August 23, 2012

Sash windows have been installed in homes since the early seventeenth century. The design truly is timeless and construction companies today still see sash windows as an efficient and suitable option for windows. The practical design that allows you to open both upper and lower parts of the window lets the cooler air come in from the bottom and the warmer air to escape from the top. The concept might seem complicated but you can always install a sash window yourself.

How about painting your sash windows?

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Sash windows have unique properties because of which they are a favourite in UK. Normally you can simply replace the old window with an exact copy, only newer and with a higher energy efficiency rating. Furthermore, you can find many contractors willing to do the job but it is always better to do it yourself as it saves money. Besides, with all the hardware and tools available in stores today, all you need are simple instructions to put them all together.

Choosing The Right Style

Firstly, you need to take measurements of the window frame and figure out a new design for the sash windows. You can opt to make it slide horizontally, install double sash windows or you might prefer to make the upper part a sliding sash and the bottom, like a lid opens. Either way, finalise the decision and draft a design. You can get designing instructions online or you can simply make one with the help of your old window sash. The main design is of the frame as you need to install the pulley and glass into it properly for the sash window to work.

Sash windows can make your interiors gorgeous!

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Building Your Own Sash Window

Next, go to the hardware store and get plenty of wood and the necessary tools required to make the sash window. Prefer using treated woods so that you don’t have to worry about the window needing repairs or termite treatment in the future. Start building the window as per the design.

Cut out the frame. Then, carve the edges to make room for the pulley cord and weights; it’s the only way to balance both the sashes. Then install the pulley with both the top and the bottom sash. You can choose to have the glass already fitted but it can always be done later on, depending on the design. Normally your design will incorporate the option of removing both sashes and glass for maintenance purposes. Remember to install the sashes after you have the frame in the wall.

Once done, paint the sash window to whatever colour you like and then finally install the glass. Your new sash window is ready.

Boris has vast experience carrying out sash window repairs for Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian style in the Greater London area. Check his website, RepairASash.co.uk to learn more about what he offers.

For more DIY ideas on Stagetecture, & Stagetecture’s YouTube Channel, click here.