The key components of a timber sash window
May 8, 2024 | Trade | Written by bereco-admin
Key highlights
- Dating back to the 17th century, sash windows are a classic feature of British architecture.
- Understanding the different sash window parts will ensure you invest in a product that delivers optimal, long-lasting performance.
- There are two different styles of sash windows, ‘cords and weights’ and ‘spiral balance.’ Each one has its own unique features and benefits.
- The type of timber used for the sash windows will massively impact the final product’s durability and longevity.
- Coating the timber in specialist treatments will make it resistant to rot and swelling, while the lamination process of engineered timber protects it from warping, shrinking and twisting.
- Timber sash windows have evolved since they were first introduced and modern products are energy efficiency, highly secure, durable and long lasting.
Introduction
Sash windows have been a prominent feature of British architecture for hundreds of years. Dating back to the 17th century, sash windows are well known for their traditional design and for effortlessly adding a touch of charm and character to any property.
If you’re considering installing sash windows into your latest project, it’s vital to understand the anatomy of sash windows. Knowing the different parts and their functions will help you to make an informed choice ensuring you invest in a product that delivers longevity and optimal performance.
To help, we’ve created this blog which takes a closer look at the key sash window components, the customisation options available as well as the benefits of these beautiful windows.
Understanding the anatomy of a timber sash window
A timber sash window is made up of various parts and each one plays a crucial role in the seamless operation of the window. By understanding the purpose and function of each component, you can discover the incredible craftmanship and engineering behind various timber sash windows.
At Bereco, we manufacture two different styles of timber sash windows, and each one has its own unique features and benefits.
Sliding sash pulley: cords and weights
The more traditional sash window style features a system of pulleys and counterbalancing weights attached to cords or ropes. Known as cords and weights, sash and case or weights and pulleys, the ropes are attached to both opening sashes allowing full movement of the window and keeping the sash in the closed, open, semi-open or fully open position.
Sash weights are a crucial component of this type of sash pulley window system and guarantee the windows can operate smoothly, allowing for easy opening, closing and positioning at various heights. Ensuring the weights are correctly adjusted and balanced is essential for optimal performance of the windows.
Perfect for projects looking to replicate traditional architecture, our cords and weight sash windows include lead or steel weights, nylon sash cords and draught-proof axel pulley wheels.
If you’re looking for sliding sash windows that effortlessly complement the heritage and history within a property, cords and weights are the best solution.
Sliding sash spiral balance
Thanks to advances in window functionality, there is now a modern alternative sash window system. Spiral balances or spiral springs are a low-maintenance, cost-effective mechanism that successfully holds the window in position by counterbalancing the weight of the opening sash.
Available in a wide range of finishes means you can match your own personal style, and makes the spiral balance the most popular style of sash windows we supply.
Timber sash window framework
The timber frames of sash windows are made up of various components responsible for the overall structure, stability, durability and support delivered. The main sash window parts include the window frame, top sash, bottom sash, upper sash, meeting rails and bottom rail.
Material choices for timber sash windows
The type of wood used for manufacturing sash window timber frames will also have a big impact on the durability, appearance and lifespan of the final product.
At Bereco, our timber sash windows are made from two types of high-quality timber which is sustainably sourced.
Redwood – Scandinavian Pine
Redwood is a popular choice featuring a smooth surface, achieves excellent durability and is perfect for painted finishes. Plus, it has full chain of custody highlighting it has been sourced responsibly from forests.
Hardwood – Dark Red Meranti
The hardwood we work with comes complete with full chain of custody so you can feel confident it has been sourced responsibly from forests. This particular timber features a pitted effect surface and has a natural red hue, making it an ideal option for stain finishes.
Properly protecting timber sash windows from twisting, warping and shrinking
Protecting and preserving timber with specialist treatments and finishes is essential to ensure they are resistant to warping, shrinking and twisting so be sure to work with a supplier who uses only the best solutions to guarantee their products are robust and long lasting.
As a timber window supplier, we are committed to delivering high-quality products and so we have developed specialist manufacturing processes. For instance, our sawmill processes the timber into engineered laminated sections which are strong, stable and resistant to warping. This is because each section is carefully treated with a specialist basecoat before it’s assembled into the window frame. It then goes through a three stage, third part accredited finishing process to achieve maximum longevity. In fact, our timber sash windows have an impressive lifespan of up to 60 years, which is twice as long as alternative window materials!
Modern innovations in timber sash windows
Timber sash windows have evolved dramatically since they were first introduced to the UK hundreds of years ago. Today’s sash windows will not only effortlessly replicate the traditional style synonymous with this type of window, but they’ll also deliver unbeatable modern performance.
Energy efficiency and thermal performance
Modern sash windows that have been manufactured to the highest standards excel in energy efficiency and thermal performance. In fact, our sash windows featuring our standard double glazing achieve U-values as low as 1.2 W/m2K.
Our triple glazing units, however, go even further when combined with our sliding sash frames and significantly exceed the notional target and limiting standard stipulated in the UK building regulations. With U-values of 0.8 W/m2K, you can feel confident the sash windows chosen for your project will complement the existing heritage of the property and keep it well insulated all year round.
Security
Investing in highly secure sash windows is vital to ensure the properties will keep the homeowners well protected from unwanted intruders. Our timber sliding sash windows are Secured by Design accredited, third party tested and certified to Part Q.
In fact as members of the BlueSky Enhanced Security Window scheme, our windows are tested and certified to PAS 24:2016 – the enhanced security performance requirement for windows in the UK.
Conclusion
From the framework to material choices and modern innovations, each aspect of a timber sliding sash window plays a significant role in the functionality and efficiency of this classic window style.
Working with the right supplier who chooses the right materials, manufactures to a high standard and works closely with you to understand your specific needs you can feel confident you’re investing in products that look fantastic and deliver outstanding performance for many years to come.
With more than two decades experience supplying trade timber windows to house builders, developers, contractors, housing associations and architects, our team of specialists have unbeatable knowledge and will support you to create a unique design of sash windows for your next project. Get in touch today to discover the perfect sliding sash window for you!