How to choose the right windows for your home

Updating your home’s windows is a significant renovation project so making the right decision is vital. Choosing the right design can completely transform a property’s exterior as well as increasing its energy efficiency. The Sash Window Workshop specialises in providing thermally efficient timber windows for period homes, which retain the property’s character.

If your window frames are in good condition, The Sash Window Workshop (opens in new tab) may be able to replace just the sliding parts of the window. This allows you to install double glazing and saves you money while also minimising the disruption to your home.

If your frames are in poor condition and you’ve started to notice cracks and draughts, or they are rotten, then it is important to address issues as soon as possible. 

What to consider when replacing traditional windows

Timber is a great choice for period windows, bringing a timeless elegance to both a property’s interior and exterior. Alongside its inviting aesthetic, wood offers excellent thermal efficiency and so boosts your home’s insulation while also being an environmentally conscious choice.

Replacement windows should be period appropriate, with the correct design and material to suit your home. Victorian properties would have had fewer glazing bars in windows compared to Georgian designs. An experienced traditional timber window company should be able to advise you on the style of windows that would best suit your home.

It is also worth thinking about the type of glass used for the windows. New windows should be manufactured to be as energy efficient as possible. Double-glazed windows can make a big difference to the warmth of your home. You can also obtain specialist glass for improving noise insulation or privacy glass, popular in bathrooms.

Before you start work, check whether it would require planning permission. If your home is listed, or in a Conservation Area, you will need to obtain permission. If there is any doubt, consult your local council before proceeding.

Check accreditations and reviews

It is important to check accreditations and company reviews before deciding whether to go ahead. The most important accreditations to look out for are FENSA and SafeContractor (if they are installing new windows into your home) and Which? Trusted Trader. Endorsed by Which?, Trusted Traders undergo rigorous yearly assessments and reference checks to ensure they provide top-quality products and service. It is also important to check that the company has experience replacing windows in similar properties. 

Visit the workshop

It is always worth trying to arrange a visit to see the windows being manufactured in person. Any company can spend time making a beautiful showroom but visiting the workshop will allow you to see windows currently being made for other customers, allowing you to see first-hand the quality of their windows.

Choose a British manufacturer

Choosing a British manufacturer not only allows you to support local jobs and businesses, but also means that the windows can be quality checked in the UK and you are not relying on the windows being shipped to the UK from another country.

By choosing a company that will manufacture and install the windows for you, you can feel confident that you won’t be caught up with issues arising between the manufacturer and the installer.

Where to see inspiration

The Sash Window Workshop (opens in new tab) has over 27 years’ experience manufacturing and installing traditional timber windows in period properties across London and Southern England. Having worked in various Conservation Areas, and on listed buildings, The Sash Window Workshop knows the importance of paying exceptional attention to detail when replacing windows in traditional homes. It has also recently celebrated 7 years of being a Which? Trusted Trader, and is proud of the fact that roughly half of its orders every year come from previous customers and recommendations.  

This success and demand has led to the opening of a second manufacturing workshop in Berkshire, making a £1 million plus investment into new premises, plant and equipment. 

To obtain a free, no obligation quotation to upgrade your timber windows, contact The Sash Window Workshop (opens in new tab) on 01344 868668.