Bespoke Timber Sliding Sash Windows

Traditional Box Sash vs Spring Balance Sash Windows

One of the most common questions homeowners ask is whether to choose a traditional box sash window or a modern spring balance sash window. Both offer the timeless appearance of sliding sash windows, but they operate using different mechanisms and are suited to different types of property.

Traditional box sash windows use concealed weights and cords housed within the frame, creating the smooth, balanced operation that has defined sash windows for centuries. They are the preferred choice for many listed buildings, heritage restorations and conservation projects where preserving the original method of operation is important.

Spring balance sash windows achieve the same elegant movement using concealed spring mechanisms rather than weights and cords. This allows greater flexibility where installation depth is limited while maintaining the classic appearance of a traditional sash window.

Neither system is inherently better than the other. The right choice depends on your property’s architecture, planning requirements and the way you intend to use your home. We’ll help you choose the most appropriate solution for your project.

Bespoke Glazing

Glazing plays an important role in the appearance and performance of bespoke timber sliding sash windows. We offer a comprehensive range of glazing options that combine traditional aesthetics with modern standards of comfort, security and energy efficiency.

Our glazing options include:

• High-Performance Double Glazing
• Heritage Double Glazing
• Toughened Safety Glass
• Laminated Security Glass
• Acoustic Glazing
• Decorative Glass
• Obscure Privacy Glass
• Traditional Leaded Glass
• Bespoke Stained Glass

For listed buildings, conservation areas and period properties, Heritage Double Glazing may be appropriate where traditional proportions need to be considered alongside improved thermal performance. Where original leaded or stained glass survives, we can carefully incorporate existing panels where suitable or create bespoke replacements that complement the original design. Every glazing specification is individually considered to balance natural light, thermal efficiency, security and appearance while preserving the elegant proportions that define traditional timber sliding sash windows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are your sliding sash windows made to measure? Yes. Every sliding sash window is individually designed and handcrafted to suit the required dimensions and specification of the project. We do not manufacture standard-sized windows, allowing each design to be developed around the architecture and proportions of the property.

Do you manufacture traditional box sash windows? Yes. We manufacture authentic traditional box sash windows using concealed weights and cords, replicating original period joinery while incorporating discreet modern improvements where appropriate.

Do you also offer spring balance sash windows? Absolutely. We manufacture both traditional weighted box sash windows and modern spring balance sash windows, allowing us to recommend the most appropriate system for your property and project.

Can you replicate my existing sash windows? Yes. We regularly reproduce original glazing bar layouts, mouldings, sash horns, meeting rails and timber sections, ensuring replacement windows maintain the character and integrity of period and heritage properties.

Are your sash windows suitable for listed buildings? Yes. We have extensive experience manufacturing bespoke timber sash windows for listed buildings and conservation areas. Every project is individually considered to ensure the new windows respect the architectural significance of the property while delivering improved performance.

Which timbers do you use? Our bespoke sash windows are available in Accoya®, European Oak and Sapele. We’ll recommend the most suitable timber based on your property’s style, location and long-term maintenance requirements.

What glazing options are available? We offer high-performance double glazing, heritage double glazing, acoustic glazing, laminated security glass, decorative glass, obscure privacy glass, leaded glazing and bespoke stained glass, allowing every window to be tailored to your project.

Can I choose the colour and finish? Yes. Every window is professionally factory finished and can be colour matched to most paint specifications, including Farrow & Ball, Little Greene, Dulux and the  RAL Colour Collection. We also offer premium stain finishes that enhance the natural beauty of timber.

Do you install your sliding sash windows? Yes. Our experienced team can install your bespoke timber sliding sash windows, carefully fitting and adjusting each window as part of our installation service.

Do I need planning permission to replace sliding sash windows? Planning permission is not always required when replacing windows, but additional restrictions can apply to listed buildings, properties within conservation areas or those affected by an Article 4 Direction. Listed Building Consent may also be required where alterations affect the character of a listed building.

Requirements vary according to the property and proposed work, so we recommend checking with your Local Planning Authority where appropriate.

Which areas do you cover? From our workshop in Rylstone, near Skipton, we manufacture and install bespoke timber sliding sash windows throughout Yorkshire, including Harrogate, York, Ilkley and Settle, as well as the Yorkshire Dales, Wharfedale, Nidderdale, Calder Valley, Ribble Valley and South Lake District. We also undertake selected bespoke joinery projects throughout the UK.