James Kray | 
07 31st, 2010| 
Sash windows are attractive features of many homes. The word “sash” means a frame or panel holding the glass of a window or door. As such, it might be a term used to describe parts of most types of windows and doors. But over the years it has come to be used more or less exclusively for widows that are open and shut by sliding the glass panels.
The panels slide vertically in the vast majority of cases. Though it is rare, nonetheless it is possible to encounter an arrangement where they slide horizontally. Each panels is seated in its own groove which is the full height window frame height. This is what enables to two to slide independently of each other. It is what allows them to slide to any position on the length of the frame, even to overlap each other.
Occasionally such windows where each panel has just single large pane are encountered. This is unusual. Most are made up of panels containing an equal number of small panes. These are also called “lights”. These lights are separated one from the other but thin pieces of wood called muntin bars. These muntin bars are themselves fixed to the outer thicker rails.
Just for the record, here are the frame part names. There is the top rail the bottom rail and the side rails, called styles. For the bottom panel, the rail at the top, together with the top panel’s bottom rail are situated side by side when the window is closed. For that reason these rails are called meeting rails.
A crucial aspect of most traditional sash windows is the “box”. This is where the term “box windows” comes from. On both sides hidden inside the window frame, there are hollow areas roughly the same height as the window itself. Inside this box section are weights. These are usually made of steel or lead. The weights are there to make it easy and safe to lift the heavy panels for opening. Big windows would be impossible to lift without such counter weights.
Each panel has its own two counter weights. There is a cord called a sash cord attached to the panel’s hidden sides. This cord passes up the side window frame’s grooves and over a recessed pulley at the top. It then comes down inside the box section where it is attached to the weight. These weights together are nearly the same weight as the frame, so that with them attached, lifting is no longer a problem. They even allow the frame to remain at whatever height the owner wishes, with no risk of it falling down.
These types of windows can be susceptible to unique problems. Here’s a few. “Jamming” or difficulty in opening and closing. This is usually caused by careless painting. Another problem is “rattling”, usually in strong wind. They panels or frames need to be refitted by an expert. And draughts. Again this is a problem that an expert or good DIY person can remedy. There are many draught proofing gadgets on the market made specially for this type of windows.
Despite the few extra problems and maintenance issues, Sash windows are still regarded by many people as the most aesthetically appealing of all windows. There is one important proviso of course. It is that the sash windows should be appropriate to the building’s architecture, in which they are installed.
Sash window restoration London locale gives new life to your worn and old windows. Your sash window company has the experience and knowledge to improve the look and operation of the windows in your home or business.
