How Do Sash Windows Work?
Sash windows are a classically beautiful choice and an inherent part of British architectural history. Sometimes referred to as vertical sliding sash windows, case windows and box sash windows. These design-classics have been gracing British homes since the 18th century. But how do these windows work?
To answer that question, we need to look out how the original timber sash window operates and compare that with the way today’s modern uPVC equivalent works.
How do original timber sash windows work?
A traditional sash window is manufactured with two sliding sections, or sashes, which slide up and down and operate using a system of weights and pulleys inside the window frame. The weight of the sash that is opened is counter-balanced with a weight inside the window frame. In turn, this weight is connected to the sash that opens by a cord that runs over a pulley at the top of the window frame. So essentially, a timber sash window works using balance.
The weight, cord and pulley mechanism are simple and effective. But maintenance and repair can be difficult (and expensive). This is because you have to dismantle the window frame, which is why many people don’t even try. You may have experience of struggling to open a timber sash window when the mechanism has broken or worse still, keeping the sash window open at all.
The good news is modern uPVC sash windows solve these problems.
How do uPVC sash windows work?
Like timber sash windows, today’s uPVC sash windows work using a mechanism concealed in the frame. The weight and cord system is replaced with a loaded spring. This means that instead of using counter-balance, modern sash windows use torsion balance.
As you move the sash up or down the spring tightens or loosens and the window stays open thanks to the countering force of the spring’s tension.
This modern-day system is much more reliable and much easier to maintain than the original weight and cord system. This is good news if you’re replacing original timber sash windows with uPVC sash window alternatives as it allows you to operate your windows with ease for many years to come. And as well as ease of use, you’ll also benefit from all the other advantages that modern-day uPVC sash windows can deliver such as low maintenance and improved thermal efficiency.
Having said that, not all modern sash windows are the same. It is important to choose your new sash windows carefully.
Why you need to choose your windows carefully
Today’s uPVC sash windows are much more authentic than the first generations of uPVC sash windows. But some options are far better than others.
When you choose Genesis sash windows you are choosing sash windows that recreate the beauty of traditional timber sash windows like no other. They are widely regarded as one of the best alternatives to timber sash windows in the market today. They offer the structural integrity and architectural elegance that your home demands.
Your Genesis sash windows will be made to measure and a perfect match for your home’s style in every detail. But as well as authentically beautiful period looks, they’ll also be packed with modern-day advantages including high security locking, energy efficiency and low maintenance design.
They use balance mechanisms so they’ll be easy to open and close for years of trouble-free operation. And every sash window offers exceptional energy efficiency with A rated as standard. They’ll also have modern standards of security to keep your home and loved ones safe too.
Our windows are suitable for all home styles but look particularly stunning in period properties or older houses that are being renovated. Such as Georgian, Edwardian and Victorian style properties.
To find out more about Genesis sash windows for your home, talk to your nearest Genesis Approved Installer. You’ll find their details by entering your postcode into the ‘Find Local Installers’ box above.