What is the right solution for your timber sash windows?

18 February 2026

At SashWise, we understand that deciding on the right solution for your timber sash windows can often feel daunting and overwhelming.

With over 20 years of experience in the timber window industry we are on hand to provide practical and relevant information and support.

Tags:

Accoya Double Glazing Draft Proofing Sash Windows Soundproofing Thermal & Energy Efficiency Window Repairs Window Restoration

Whether you live in a Victorian terrace cottage, a Georgian townhouse, or an apartment within a converted Edwardian building, this simple quiz is designed to provide clarity and guidance on the most appropriate route forward for your windows.

Question 1 - How would you best describe your current windows?

a) Structurally sound, but draughty and rattle in the wind

b) The paintwork has deteriorated and there are visible signs of timber rot

c) There is significant condensation on the glass

d) The windows allow a high level of outside noise into the property

Timber sash window

Question 2 - What is your biggest concern with your timber sash windows right now?

a) Some of the sash cords are broken, and the windows do not open and close properly

b) I am concerned issues with the windows may be highlighted during a future property sale

c) Heat loss and rising energy bills

d) Future-proofing the property and reducing long-term maintenance costs

Timber sash windows

Question 3 - Have your timber windows ever been professionally repaired or restored?

a) Yes, they have been professionally painted and maintained

b) Only DIY repairs have been carried out

c) Not since we moved into the property

d) The original timber windows have been replaced with aluminium or uPVC windows

Timber sash window

Question 4 - What has prevented you from undertaking work on your windows until now?

a) Cost

b) Concern about loosing the original character and period features

c) Worry about mess and disruption to the interior of the property

d) The property is in a conservation area, and I am unsure about planning permission

Timber sash windows

Question 5 - What outcome matters most to you?

a) Improving comfort and eliminating draughts

b) Long-term peace of mind

c) Reducing energy costs and improving efficiency

d) Installing low-maintenance windows

Timber sash window

Your Results

Mostly A's - Professional Service and Draught-Proofing May Be all You Need

Your timber sash windows are likely structurally sound but suffering from common wear and tear. A professional service combined with a discreet draught-proofing system can dramatically improve comfort, reduce rattling, and eliminate cold air infiltration.

Draught-proofing sash windows is often the most cost-effective way to restore performance while retaining the original features of your period property.

Understand more about SashWise's sash window draught-proofing service
Service and draught-proofing
A superb job from start to finish. The pricing was sensible; timing agreed and met; installers arrived on time every day and worked hard through the day; they cleaned up each day; the quality of workmanship was excellent. I wholeheartedly recommend this company - I am sure you will not be disappointed if you use them.

B Warman, Hampton Hill

Mostly B's - Full Timber Sash Window Restoration

If your windows show signs of deteriorating paintwork or timber rot, a full restoration may be the best route forward. This involves stripping back the windows to the original wood, repairing and damaged timber, re-sealing the glass into the frames and painting the windows throughout to protect them for years to come.

Alongside this the original windows would be fully draught-proofed, new sash cords fitted as well as new window furniture and security locks.

Restoration preserves the original features while addressing structural concerns, making it ideal for heritage homes and listed buildings.

Discover more about full sash window restoration
Workshop
Cannot recommend highly enough. Made our old sash windows look as new for a lot less than having new windows. Everything you want from a service.

G M Khan, Surbiton

Mostly C's - Retain the Original Sash Boxes & Install New Timber Double Glazed Sashes

If condensation and heat loss are your main concerns, retaining and restoring the original sash boxes, and fitting new timber double glazed sashes within them, could be the perfect balance.

This approach is a popular option for homeowners seeking to improve thermal efficiency and reduce energy bills, without the expense and disruption of full window replacement.

Understand more about how this option could suit you
Timber double glazed sashes
SashWise have carried out three jobs for us over the past few years as we have gradually refurbished and retrofitted our Windows. The team have been a pleasure to work with, and the standards of craftsmanship have been extremely high, including replicating the decorative design of our Edwardian windows. I would have no hesitation recommending SashWise to family and friends.

M Butt, Hammersmith

Mostly D's - Complete New Accoya Timber Double Glazed Sash Windows

If exceptional performance and minimal ongoing maintenance are your priorities, complete replacement with new Accoya timber double glazed sash windows may be the most appropriate solution.

This option offers maximum energy efficiency, improved acoustic insulation and low ongoing maintenance.

With all of our new sash windows we take great care to match the intricate design and detailing of the original windows, thereby preserving the aesthetic character of your home.

SashWise's new timber double glazed sash windows
Workshop
SashWise have replaced over 20 cold and noisy single glazed sash windows with new like-for-like replicas with double glazing and modern insulation. The new windows look fantastic, the quote was reasonable with no additional charges, and the team worked extremely quick and cleanly. This is the second job that I have appointed SashWise for, and I would not hesitate to appoint hem again in the future. Great work!

J Limm, Richmond upon Thames

Still Unsure?

At SashWise we understand every property is unique, and the condition of timber sash windows can vary significantly even within the same street.

If you would like tailored advice on whether repair, restoration, draught-proofing, or replacement is the the right solution for your home, our friendly team would be delighted to help.

Contact SashWise today to arrange a professional assessment and discover the best long-term solution for your sash windows.

Contact Us
Timber sash windows