Look beyond the surface
A sash window can look tired while the underlying joinery remains perfectly sound. Peeling paint, failed putty, broken sash cords or a small area of decay can often be repaired without replacing the window. Equally, a recently decorated window can conceal more significant problems within the frame.
During a survey, we assess the areas most susceptible to deterioration, including the sill, lower corners, sash joints and exposed end grain. We also check the stability of the frame within the surrounding opening. This gives a much clearer picture of what can be retained and where more extensive work may be necessary.
Consider three routes, not simply repair or replace
There are usually three approaches to consider: repair, retrofit or complete renewal. Repair retains sound original joinery and addresses localised defects. Retrofit retains a serviceable box frame while introducing new made-to-measure hardwood sashes, with slim double glazing where appropriate. Complete renewal replaces the frame and sashes where the existing joinery, design or required performance makes replacement the better long-term approach.
Not every window in a property needs to follow the same route. An original front bay may be worth carefully restoring while a poorly altered or extensively decayed window elsewhere is replaced. Assessing each opening individually means the work can be specified according to condition rather than applying the same solution throughout.
When replacement is the right approach
A repair-first approach does not mean preserving joinery at any cost. Complete replacement may be the better option where decay is extensive, the surrounding timber has lost its integrity, the frame has become distorted or an earlier replacement is poorly proportioned or constructed. Made-to-measure replacement also allows the window to be considered as a whole, including glazing, draught sealing, profiles, ironmongery and finish. The important part is replacing carefully.
Original details such as horn profiles, glazing bars, meeting rails and the proportions of the existing opening should inform the new joinery. A well-made replacement should improve the performance of the window while remaining sympathetic to the character and proportions of the property.