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Historic JoineryHeritage Craft · Yorkshire

Sash Window Restoration

Original timber sash windows are part of what gives a period building its character — and almost always worth saving. Decades of weather and old paint hide sound joinery underneath, and replacing a box sash with a modern unit rarely matches the proportions of the original.

We repair sash windows rather than rip them out: splicing in matching timber where rot has taken hold, replacing broken sash cords and parted beads, rebalancing the weights, and draught-proofing the box so the window runs smoothly and keeps the cold out. Wherever possible the original glass stays.

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Restored heritage timber sash window frames in the Historic Joinery Yorkshire workshop

What we do

Box sash and casement windows repaired, draught-proofed and made watertight without losing the original glass or proportions.

  • Box sash repairs — spliced timber, new cills and bottom rails where decay has set in
  • Replacement sash cords, parting beads, staff beads and pulley wheels
  • Draught proofing to brush-pile seals that cut rattles and heat loss
  • Secondary glazing options where extra insulation or sound reduction is needed
  • Wholesale replacement sashes made to match the original profile when repair is not viable

How it works

From inspection to installation.

  1. 01

    Inspection on site

    We examine each window in place, identify decay and failed joints, and agree the scope before any work begins.

  2. 02

    Repair at the workshop

    Where needed, sashes are carefully removed and brought to Honley. Rot is cut out, matching timber spliced in, and new parts woodturned or bench-joined to fit.

  3. 03

    Draught proofing & rebalance

    Brush-pile seals are routed in, cords and weights renewed, and the sash rehung so it slides true and seals tight.

  4. 04

    Finish & reinstate

    Timber is treated against weather and wear, decorated to match, and the window set back to sound conservation practice.

Questions

Common questions

Can you repair a sash window rather than replace it?
In most cases, yes. Even badly weathered sashes usually have sound joinery underneath. We splice in matching timber, renew cords and beads, and draught-proof the box so the original window works as it should — replacement is a last resort.
Do you draught proof sash windows?
Yes. We rout discreet brush-pile seals into the sashes and box during restoration, which removes rattles and significantly reduces heat loss while keeping the window fully operable.
Will the original glass be kept?
Wherever it is sound, the original glass stays — it is a large part of a period window's character. Where panes are broken we source the closest match available.
Do you work on listed buildings?
Yes. As a Guild of Master Craftsmen member we carry out sympathetic repairs to listed and conservation-area properties, retaining original material in line with sound conservation practice.

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