uPVC sash windows combine classic elegance with modern performance, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking both style and practicality. Inspired by traditional timber sash designs, these windows offer the charm of period aesthetics while delivering the benefits of energy efficiency, durability, and low maintenance.
Unlike traditional wooden frames, uPVC sash windows resist warping, rotting, and peeling, ensuring long-lasting beauty with minimal upkeep. Their advanced glazing options improve insulation and noise reduction, creating a comfortable and quiet living space. Whether you’re restoring a historic home or adding character to a modern property, uPVC sash windows provide a perfect blend of heritage looks and contemporary functionality.
Key Points
- UPVC sash windows offer a blend of traditional charm and modern efficiency.
- They provide superior thermal insulation and require minimal upkeep.
- Cost-effective in the long run, they can increase your property value.
- A variety of customisation options are available to match your home’s design.
- Enhanced security features offer peace of mind.
Sash windows: Overview
Sash windows are a staple of British architecture, admired for their timeless elegance and functionality. Traditionally made from timber, these windows have graced period properties for centuries, but as with all things, evolution is inevitable, and UPVC sash windows have emerged as a modern alternative that offers the best of both worlds.
Traditional timber windows exude character, although they do come with their fair share of maintenance woes, from regular painting to dealing with potential rot and draughts. However, uPVC sash windows retain all the aesthetic appeal of their timber predecessors while offering many modern benefits.
For homeowners in the Bath area, the thermal insulation provided by uPVC sash windows is a major draw. Thanks to their thermal efficiency, these windows keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer.
Furthermore, uPVC sash windows have enhanced security features, giving you peace of mind that your property is well-protected against intruders.
How much do uPVC sash windows cost?
Cost is always a factor when home improvements are made. However, uPVC sash windows offer remarkable value, especially when the long-term savings are considered, due to thermal efficiency and low maintenance costs.
It’s worth noting that uPVC sash windows often have a lower price tag than traditional timber sash windows, thanks to uPVC being a cost-effective material to produce and maintain. Plus, you won’t have to worry about costly repairs or repainting, which are common with timber windows.
Colour options for uPVC sash windows
A wide variety of colour options are available. This allows you to perfectly tailor your windows to complement your home’s exterior. Whether you’re looking for something that blends seamlessly with your existing decor or a colour that makes a bold statement, there’s a shade or hue for every taste.
Classic white remains popular for a clean, timeless look that suits any property style. But if you’re after something a bit different, cream and woodgrain finishes are also available. The woodgrain finish is especially appealing if you want the appearance of timber without the upkeep.
The ability to customise the colour of your UPVC sash windows means you can maintain the architectural integrity of your property. Whether your home is a Georgian masterpiece or a modern build, you can match the window colours to your existing decor, creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing look. For example, we can colour match Farrow & Ball, RAL, British Standard colours, or any other leading brand paint.
Hardware options for uPVC sash windows
Hardware is not just about functionality; it’s about adding a touch of personal style to your home. The correct hardware can enhance your Windows’ operation and security, ensuring they meet your everyday needs while adding an elegant touch.
You can choose from a range of hardware finishes. Traditional brass fittings offer a classic look that complements period properties, while modern chrome finishes provide a sleek, contemporary feel. These choices allow you to customise your windows to reflect your style preferences.
Security is a top priority for any homeowner, and UPVC sash windows do not disappoint. Secure locking mechanisms are standard, providing peace of mind that your family and possessions are safe.
From double glazing to obscure glass. Glazing options for uPVC sash windows
Glazing plays a crucial role in your windows’ performance, affecting everything from energy efficiency to noise reduction. uPVC sash windows offer various glazing options, allowing you to tailor them to your needs and preferences.
Double glazing is a standard choice, although triple glazing is an option. Triple-glazed sash windows provide an additional layer of glass, further enhancing thermal performance and noise reduction. This can be particularly beneficial in busy urban areas, where noise pollution is a concern.
Privacy is another consideration, and frosted glass options are available to maintain privacy while allowing natural light to flood your home. Modern glazing technology also helps reduce harmful UV rays entering your home, protecting your furnishings from fading over time.
Design choices for uPVC sash windows
Thanks to the array of design choices available, uPVC sash windows can be tailored to suit any architectural style, ensuring they complement your property perfectly.
Customisable window grids are another feature that allow you to add character and charm to your property. Whether you prefer a simple grid pattern or something more elaborate, you can create a look that enhances your home’s architectural beauty.
Sash horn designs are also available for those wanting a more traditional appearance. These decorative elements mimic the look of original timber sash windows, adding an authentic touch to your uPVC windows.
Whichever type of sash window you require, regardless of the size of window, height, sash style, and budget, the Clearglaze team will be happy to help.
Maintenance tips for uPVC sash windows
One of the standout features of uPVC is low maintenance. Unlike timber windows, which demand regular painting and repairs, uPVC windows are designed to withstand the elements with minimal upkeep.
Regular cleaning with a mild detergent is usually all that’s needed to keep your uPVC frames looking pristine. Lubricate the moving parts occasionally to keep your windows operating smoothly. Vertical sliding sash uPVC windows are easy to clean thanks to a tilt-back feature.
Compared to traditional timber sash windows, uPVC options offer a worry-free experience. They allow you to enjoy their beauty and functionality without the upkeep that timber demands.
Summary
In conclusion, uPVC sash windows offer a remarkable blend of tradition and innovation, making them ideal for homeowners who are looking to enhance their properties. With a range of customisation options, cost benefits, and minimal maintenance requirements, these windows seamlessly combine style and practicality. A member of the Clearglaze team will be happy to discuss any of the options mentioned.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are uPVC sash windows?
uPVC sash windows are a popular window type that combine traditional aesthetics with modern benefits. They are made from uPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride), a durable and low-maintenance material, and feature a vertical sliding design that allows easy opening and closing.
What are the benefits of uPVC sash windows?
uPVC sash windows offer a range of benefits for your property, including improved energy efficiency, reduced noise levels, enhanced security, and easy maintenance. They also come in a variety of styles and colours to complement your home’s aesthetic.
Are uPVC sash windows suitable for period properties?
Yes, uPVC sash windows are a popular choice for period properties. They can be designed to mimic the look of traditional timber sash windows while offering the benefits of modern materials. This allows you to maintain the character of your property while improving its energy efficiency and security.
How do uPVC sash windows compare to traditional timber sash windows?
uPVC sash windows offer many advantages over traditional timber sash windows, including better insulation, lower maintenance requirements, and increased durability. They are also more cost-effective in the long run, requiring less upkeep and being less prone to rotting and warping.
Does a uPVC sash window need a tilt facility?
When cleaning, the tilt-back option makes the process much easier as it provides greater access.
Are uPVC sash windows only available in white?
In short, no. We can colour match any RAL, British Standard, or Farrow & Ball colour.
What are sash horns?
Sash horns are small projections or decorative elements found on the vertical sides of sash windows. They were initially designed to strengthen and stabilise the window frame and provide a traditional visual aesthetic. These horns can be ornamental or functional, depending on the style of the window. In traditional sash windows, they would have been an integral part of the design, but in modern uPVC sash windows, they are often added for decorative purposes.
What are astragal bars?
Astragal bars are decorative glazing bars fitted onto the glass of a sash window to create the appearance of multiple smaller panes. Unlike Georgian bars, which sit between the panes of a double-glazed unit, astragal bars are applied to the surface of the glass and often have a spacer bar in between to enhance the illusion of individual panes.