An All You Need To Know Guide on Sash Window Parts

Sliding sash windows have a timeless appearance and a unique function. Unlike casement windows, sash windows do not open out on hinges. Traditional and modern sash windows work by vertically sliding open. Due to this charming sliding function, sash windows are made up of several different parts. 

At Sashes of Surrey, we bring homeowners the market-leading Rose Collection. This premium quality window collection consists of three sliding sash window profiles, each offering the classic charm of authentic frames. 

If you are considering a sash window installation and want to learn more about sash window parts, this expert guide has everything you need to know. 

A Guide To Sash Window Parts 

Sash windows have been a part of British architecture for centuries. These elegant sliding windows have stood the tests of time and many modern homeowners are choosing this vintage window style over more contemporary profiles. 

While high quality modern sash windows are almost impossible to tell apart from original frames, they operate slightly differently. Traditional sash windows opened using a cord, pulley and counterweight system, whereas many modern profiles use a loaded spring to function safely.   

The operation of traditional and modern sash windows may vary slightly, but the majority of their parts are the same. The main sash window parts include: 

• Meeting rail 

• Deep cill 

• Astragal bars 

• Sash horns 

• Putty 

• Staff bead 

There is a lot more to a sash window profile than you may expect! Let’s take a closer look at these important sash windows accessories:

Meeting rail

The horizontal meeting rail is a bar located at the bottom of both the lower sash and the upper sash. When you slide the sash windows closed, both meeting rails will connect. At Sashes of Surrey, we offer homeowners sliding sash windows with the slimmest meeting rails available today. The 35mm meeting rail allows you to enjoy maximum views and will invite more natural light into your home. 

Deep cill

Traditionally, sash windows were manufactured with a deep bottom cill to avoid water from building up and damaging the timber frames. Modern profiles include this design feature to maintain the much-loved classic aesthetic. The deep cill is positioned at the bottom of the frame and while contemporary profiles are made from durable and weather resistant uPVC, this sash window part plays an essential role in maintaining the classic sash window appearance. 

Astragal bars

Traditional glass manufacturing was limited and authentic sash windows were manufactured using several small panes of glass, held together by glazing bars. During the Georgian era and at the beginning of the Victorian era, astragal bars were used to secure multiple panes of glass inside the window frame. The modern sliding sash windows we install here at Sashes of Surrey can be customised to feature classic style astragal bars. These contemporary alternatives to the classic sash window part are made with timber-line for authentic aesthetics and aluminium for added structural strength. 

Sash horns

Classic sash horns were incorporated into the sash window design to add structural support to the mortice and tenon joints; this added muscle was especially needed when larger panes of glazing began to be used. The shape of sash horns varies between different historical periods and this window part stopped the sashes from jamming and opening too far. Modern sash windows feature run-through sash horns that replicate the classic appearance while providing the necessary strength needed for modern uPVC profiles. Genuine sash windows also featured seahorse shaped sash horns. Unlike run-through horns, the seahorse alternatives were incorporated into the window design for aesthetic purposes only. Achieving this authentic curved shape is not easy when working with uPVC, but the experts behind the Rose Collection have made this decorative feature a reality for contemporary sash window designs. 

Putty

Authentic timber sash windows featured a 45 degree sloping putty line, used to hold the glass in place inside the frames. This putty seal secured the glazing in position and also acted as a weatherproof protective layer. Modern uPVC sliding sash windows are more weather resistant than traditional timber profiles, featuring gaskets and other weatherproof parts. However, the putty line was an integral part of the classic sash window appearance and the windows we offer here at Sashes of Surrey feature this small yet significant design detail. 

Staff beads

The staff bead was another important part of the classic sliding window design. This sash window part was located on the interior side of the window and was needed to hold the sliding sash in place when the window was open. Modern sash windows use a spring and balance system to stay open securely but contemporary frames are available with removable staff beads in order to mimic the classic window design. 

Bring Classic Charm To Your Home With Sashes of Surrey 

At Sashes of Surrey, we bring local homeowners the market leading Rose Collection. The Ultimate Rose, Heritage Rose and Charisma Rose profiles have all been designed to replicate the timeless appearance of sliding sash windows. These premium quality profiles are made using high grade uPVC and can be customised to include all of the decorative classic sash window parts. 

To enhance your home with double glazed sash windows, don’t hesitate to contact the Sashes of Surrey team. Get in touch with us today by calling 01252 931422 or filling out our online contact form. You can also start your sash window project right away by requesting a free online quote. 

Categories: Sashes Of Surrey

Tags: sash window accessories, sash window parts, sash windows