Modern vs Traditional Sash Windows

During the Georgian period, sash windows soared in popularity in England. It is not uncommon to see heritage homes from this era still with their original sash windows in place today. With their signature timber frames and elegant accessories, authentic sash windows have a timeless charm that many homeowners want to protect. If you are curious to know the difference between modern and traditional sash windows, Sashes of Surrey has all the details for you here.

What Are The Problems With Traditional Sash Windows?

While traditional sash windows may have a stunning, classical aesthetic, they are prone to several issues. Original sash windows feature single glazing, which is known to offer poor thermal efficiency. Old houses are often on the colder side because single glazed glass panes are unable to keep cold air out and hot air inside effectively. Single glazing also falls short when it comes to home security. This glass is easy to break, making your home an easy target for burglars.

The wooden frames of traditional sash windows can also cause problems for modern homeowners. The genuine timber frames bring personality to period properties, but the old materials are prone to flaking, discolouration and warping. Homeowners who don’t wish to replace the original sash windows in their heritage home often need to spend time and money repainting and maintaining authentic timber frames.

Of course, nothing can beat the look of genuine, traditional sash windows from the Georgian, Victorian or Edwardian periods. Still, these single glazed windows can be too much of a hassle for modern homeowners. However, we have good news too. With the Rose Collection models of uPVC sash windows at Sashes of Surrey, we help our customers protect the classic aesthetic of their property without any of the problems associated with traditional sash windows.

Are There Any Problems With uPVC Sash Windows?

Modern uPVC sash windows blend classic style with contemporary performance, and we provide three different sash window styles from the Rose Collection: Heritage, Ultimate Rose and Charisma. Manufactured with over 50 years of experience by Roseview, these three profiles are almost indistinguishable from traditional frames but outperform the originals in every area.

Unlike traditional single glazed sash windows, modern sash windows feature strong double glazing and a secure design. The robust double glazed panes can not be easily damaged. When you choose our uPVC modern sash windows, you can sleep easily with the knowledge that your family is well protected. To further boost security, modern sash windows use multi-point locking systems.

Advances in technology have resulted in more energy efficient glass window panes. Cutting edge double glazing can prevent cold draughts from entering your home and works to keep a comfortable internal temperature all year round. While single glazed windows can have homeowners relying heavily on central heating for comfort and cause problems, double glazing has the opposite result. Modern sash windows with double glazing will keep your home warm even in winter and can lead to cheaper energy bills.

Many traditional sash windows were manufactured with a complicated operating system. In original designs, the sash lanes were balanced with a counterweight made from steel, lead or cast-iron. The weight in these older windows is attached to a cord that can be found in a box installed within the window’s frame.

Contemporary sash windows have a sleeker and more functional operation. Using a spring or sash balance system, modern frames feature a spring loaded mechanism designed to counter the force of gravity. The spring mechanism keeps the sash panes securely in place when your windows are open. There are no cords, pulleys or counterweights on modern frames, creating a neater finish.

How to Maintain the Classic Style with Modern Sash Windows? 

Timber frames are a much-loved part of heritage homes, but they are, unfortunately, unable to provide the performance modern homeowners expect. At Sashes of Surrey, we don’t believe that vintage style needs to be sacrificed for modern performance, and that is why we supply windows that bring homeowners the best of both worlds. Our modern uPVC sash windows are built to last, and their durable design requires minimal maintenance. All of the windows in the Rose Collection will look their best and perform at a high standard for many years to come.

To maintain the classic style of traditional sash windows, we provide several customisation opportunities. The Rose Collection aims to replicate authentic timber frames right down to the finest detail, and our customers can accessorise their sash windows with astragal bars, bottom rails, woodgrain foils, ovolo sightline, Georgian bars and more. Exceptional energy efficiency and overall performance do not need to come at the cost of the timeless sash window design. We also offer modern wooden sash windows that look authentic but use high quality modern materials, providing improved durability and performance.

Upgrade to uPVC Modern Sash Windows Today!

Old or new, sash windows bring a touch of charm and class to properties of all shapes and sizes. Traditional frames have an authentic appearance but require a lot of maintenance to stay looking their best. Older windows also don’t benefit from double glazing and can be a security risk. The modern sash windows available in the Rose Collection range are a perfect mix of classic style and contemporary performance.

At Sashes of Surrey, we can transform your home with a modern sash window installation. As a FENSA business, you can feel confident knowing that you are getting quality products from trustworthy installers. We are dedicated to providing exceptional service for every one of our customers.

Get a quote for your new sash windows today, or call us on 01252 931422. You can also complete our online contact form, and an expert from our team will get back to you.

Categories: Sash Windows, Sashes Of Surrey