Whether you’re looking to enhance the classic style of your luxury abode, or simply add some much-needed value and curb appeal to a project home, there are so many easy wins to enhance the look, feel and aesthetic of your property.
In the latest of an ongoing series here at Luxury Lifestyle Magazine, we have teamed up with some of the experts in the home renovation industry to bring you the inside track on enhancing your property.
Today, we are focusing on windows – sash windows, specifically – and who better to consult than The Sash Window Workshop, a high-end bespoke timber window and door company located in the heart of Berkshire.
Working with the experts at The Sash Window Workshop, here’s your guide to the classic and timeless alternative to generic windows – the timber sash.
History
Timber sash windows that The Sash Window Workshop specialises in, have heritage dating back to the 17th century. While their country of origin is somewhat a contentious topic (some say England, while others believe it was the Netherlands), the sash window certainly rose to popularity in the Georgian era in England.
Perhaps the most famous example of architectural grandeur combined with the timeless aesthetic of an original sash window can be found at the National Trust property Ham House, just south of Richmond-upon-Thames, where original 17th century sash windows are still proudly on display in the Grade I listed building.
The Beauty and Efficiency of Timber
If history, heritage and tradition are not enough to sway you, there are a number of extremely practical factors that might impact your decision to trade your current windows for timber sash.
Firstly, and perhaps most importantly, timber sash windows do add a value premium to your home – particularly if it is a period property. Buyers, especially in luxury environments, are almost always willing to pay extra for period appropriate windows – and the expense recoups itself in home value more often than not. The look, with traditional and authentic detailing, provides a classic and timeless look that other types of window casing simply cannot compete with, which ultimately adds another level of allure to your property.
It’s also worth noting, though, that timber windows, despite their traditional aesthetic, can also increase your home efficiency. Much-like the mass manufactured style of windows synonymous with new-build homes, timber sash windows are delivered double-glazed and draught-proofed – unless planning permission or home specification requires single-glazing. Timber is a naturally insulating material and timber sashes can have thin frames and detailing which allows more natural light into the home than thicker plastic windows.
Tread Lightly on the Earth
While aesthetic and value are arguably the two most important factors when considering the move to the timeless sash window, the environment is certainly a topic that should never stray too far from our minds.
All too often, it can feel as though the decisions we make in order to increase our enjoyment are those that have most environmental impact, like, say, taking a flight for a sun-soaked holiday, or purchasing a new luxury car. Fortunately, with timber sash windows, the opposite is actually true. Joy, abound!
Timber windows are far more environmentally friendly than plastic windows – particularly if you choose a sustainable timber, such as Accoya. Mass plastic window production has a fairly heavy carbon footprint, a full 160 kilograms of carbon emissions higher than sustainable timber equivalents – and they are less durable as the sash frames at Ham House can attest.
We know what you’re thinking – timber, like any other wood, is susceptible to rotting. Well, sure, but if managed even moderately well, timber windows can be repaired with minimum impact, and all Accoya timber windows have a 50-year anti-rot guarantee.
The Joy of the Process
In choosing timber sash windows over the one-size-fits-all approach of modern plastic, you are making a decision to bring more tradition and heritage into your home. Not only that, you are ensuring that you receive a service that is truly bespoke.
At The Sash Window Workshop, for example, all timber windows are produced by skilled craftsmen using the latest machinery – made bespoke for you.
There is a bit of a stereotype attached to double-glazing salesmen, pushing their PVC product on a showroom floor. With a bespoke timber arrangement, it is a wholly different experience. At The Sash Window Workshop, customers are able to visit the workshop where the windows are being crafted, and request design features from the highly-qualified staff.
The Sash Window Workshop manufacture and install timber windows and doors across London and Southern England, offering a supply only service nationwide. All their timber sash windows are bespoke and made in their workshop in Berkshire to meet the customer’s exact specification. The company is a Which? Trusted Trader and has a five-star Trustpilot rating.
For a free, no obligation visit and quotation contact The Sash Window Workshop on 01344 868 668.
