Sash window designs have evolved over the years in response to changes in technology, architecture, and legal requirements. First used in the 13th century, they were a crucial component of residences built throughout three different architectural eras: Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian.
These types of windows were a display of wealth and added a sense of grandeur to the outer facade. The windows had another important purpose: letting in a lot of natural light, which was crucial back when dwellings didn’t have easy access to electricity.
There are several obvious style contrasts between Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architecture. It will be easier for you to identify the type of sash window you currently have installed if you are aware of these architectural variations.
What Is a Sash Window?
A sash window is a vertically opening window that consists of two framed window sashes. Alternatively referred to as a sliding sash window, at Mumford & Wood, our bespoke windows are packed with features, including concealed timber veneered periscope trickle vents, multi-layered engineered timber, and cavity formers.
What Advantages Do Sash Windows Offer?
The designs of timber sash windows offer several benefits. In conclusion, these are:
- They have a classic appearance and traditional appeal.
- They work well for houses in protected locations.
- When a room is heated, it provides excellent convection and ventilation, effectively circulating air throughout the space.
- Typically, you may lock them when they’re open to allow for ventilation without worrying about security.
Popular Styles of Period Sash Windows
Sash windows changed frequently throughout history; as a result, if you own a Georgian-style home, for instance, you should look to install authentic sash windows that complement the interior and exterior of your beloved property.
A variety of smaller glass panes were held together by glazing bars in traditional sash windows. Astragal bars is another name for these. Because it was not yet feasible to make huge pieces of glass, sash windows were developed in this manner.
The number of window panes in the window sashes often depends on the time period. We explore these below.
Georgian Sash Windows
Typically, these had “six over six.” This meant that there would be six glass panes in each sash. Additionally, “eight over eight” panes were also available. Georgian sash windows tend to feature more complex grid patterns and are still recreated to this day, providing authentic designs of the time.
Victorian Sash Windows
Sash windows in Victorian homes were often “two above two,” although alternative numbers, including those with a single glass pane, were also frequently found. These are still rather common in more recent buildings with Victorian-era design elements, including conservatories. Unlike Georgian properties, Victorian homes featured larger panes of glass with fewer glazing bars, allowing more natural light to enter the property.
Edwardian Sash Windows
Similar to the Victorian era, Edwardian windows often had “six over two” panes. They typically feature panes of glass in the bottom sash and smaller panes in the upper sash. Larger homes were built in the early 1900s, featuring bigger hallways and taller rooms, making sash windows ideal for allowing more natural light in. During this period, it wasn’t uncommon for architects and designers creating Edwardian windows to ‘borrow’ elements and ideas from Georgian architecture.
Sash Horns: A Distinctive Feature
Additionally, in period properties, there is a distinctive feature of sash windows, and this is the sash horn. They are downward protrusions from the base of the upper sash, fixed to either end of the horizontal centre bar of the frame. They are an integral feature and are designed to reflect the architecture of the time period, so if you’re thinking of renovating your period property or would like to add some additional character to your modern home, you may want to consider sash horns on your new sash windows.
Is Installing Sash Windows Worthwhile?
Although trends come and go, sash windows have remained a beautiful and elegant option for homeowners in both modern and period properties. They offer a quality and distinction that other windows can’t match, and they can also help retain the value of your property.
At Mumford & Wood, our timber sash windows are equipped with double glazing as standard, and are hung on concealed spring mechanisms, cords and weights, or chains. We also offer fully customisable glazing bar designs that can be used to tailor the look and feel of your new sash windows. Get in touch today or visit our showroom to discover our product range up close and personal.
