21 Aug Sash or casement windows? Which is better for a traditional home?

If you live in a period home, the style of your replacement windows can make or break the character of your home. Modern materials can improve insulation and make your home more secure, but not every modern design will look right in an older home.

Here are some tips to help you choose between sash and casement windows in Swansea.

Start with your home’s history.

If your house originally had box sash windows (common in Georgian, Victorian, or Edwardian buildings), stick with sash, or vertical slider, windows. They have the right proportions, a deep bottom rail, and optional run-through horns.

Mechanical joints make the corners of these windows look like they have been made from real timber instead of PVC. This is usually what planning officers expect in conservation areas.

If your house is a cottage or a relatively newer house with side-hung casements, choose a flush casement. It sits level with the frame like traditional timber.

You can get these windows with mechanical joints or a MechWeld finish to get a joinery-style detail. They look amazing with stone walls or brick fronts.

When should you choose sash windows?

Get sash windows if you want a strong heritage look with modern performance. They have details like mechanical joints, deep bottom rail, and milled Georgian bars, all sized to match original box-sash proportions. They are also a good choice for conservation, since they can be approved where PVCu is allowed as an alternative to timber.

Sash windows are easy to look after as well. Both sashes tilt inwards, so you can clean the outside from inside your home. You can also add travel stops if you want to make them safer, especially around children.

In terms of performance, the energy ratings of these windows can go up to A+ and U-values down to 1.3 W/m²K. They are also tested for security, so they easily meet PAS 24 standards and carry the Kitemark for reassurance.

When should you choose casement windows?

Casement windows have details like a Heritage bead, a soft external chamfer, and even a hidden dummy-mullion end cap for French windows. In terms of performance, they meet PAS 24 for security, can achieve an A+ energy rating, and give you the choice between double glazing as standard or triple glazing for extra warmth.

The second option is the classic sculptured casement, like the Aluplast Ideal 70. This is great if you want something with a slightly more decorative profile and also good value for money.

These windows have a five-chamber profile for better insulation, can reach an A rating for energy, and give you options for double or triple glazing. They are also PAS 24 tested for security. 

Looking for high-quality, energy-efficient windows in Swansea?

If you are thinking about getting new windows in Swansea, Affordable Quality Windows would be happy to help. We supply and install Spectus Vertical Sliders, REHAU Rio Flush Casements, and Aluplast Ideal 70 Casements in Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Cardiff, Bridgend, and nearby areas. Call us today at (01639) 500359 or send us a message for a free quote.