Sash window restoration and draught-proofing in Kent

Repair before you replace

Old sash windows were often made from slow-grown timber that is denser and more durable than much modern softwood. Even where the bottom rail or sill has rotted, a joiner can usually cut out the decayed section and splice in new wood, keeping the rest of the frame. Broken cords, worn pulleys and stuck sashes are routine repairs. On a listed building, keeping and repairing the original windows is normally expected, and replacing them is likely to need listed building consent, so repair is often the simplest route as well as the most sympathetic one.

Draught-proofing and secondary glazing

Much of the heat lost through a sash window escapes around the edges rather than through the glass. Specialists fit brush or rubber seals into the beads and meeting rails, which cuts draughts and rattles while letting the sashes slide freely. Discreet secondary glazing fitted inside can add warmth and reduce noise from a busy road. On a listed home, ask the council's conservation officer whether draught strips or secondary glazing need consent, as approaches vary. Fitting slim double-glazed units into existing sashes is a separate question and is more likely to need permission.

Old glass, paint and conservation areas

Early handmade glass has a gentle ripple that is hard to replace, so ask how surviving panes will be protected during repairs. Old paint layers may contain lead, which needs careful handling when sanding or stripping, especially with children in the house. In conservation areas, Article 4 directions can remove permitted development rights for replacing windows on some elevations, which can mean even an unlisted house needs planning permission for new windows. Check with your council before ordering anything, and tell anyone quoting whether your street is covered.

Jobs we can find a restoration specialist for

Sash cord, pulley and weight repairs
Splice repairs to rotten rails and sills
Draught-proofing with brush seals
Reglazing and putty work
Secondary glazing
Casement window repairs

Get a quote for sash window restoration and draught-proofing

Available across Kent

Dartford Gravesend Medway Maidstone Sevenoaks Tonbridge & Tunbridge Wells Ashford Canterbury Thanet Folkestone & Hythe Dover & Deal Swale

Other services

Lime pointing, lime render and lime plaster · Brick, stone and flint repairs · Timber frame and weatherboarding repairs · Period joinery, doors and staircases · Listed building works and consents

Sash window restoration and draught-proofing: common questions

Can my sash windows be repaired instead of replaced?

Often, yes. Rot is usually limited to sills and bottom rails, which can be spliced, and cords, pulleys and beads can be renewed. A specialist can tell you after a survey which sashes, if any, are beyond repair.

Do I need consent to repair sash windows on a listed building?

Small like-for-like repairs are often acceptable, but replacement, double-glazed units and some repairs can need listed building consent. Talk to your council's conservation officer before work starts.

Will draught-proofing stop my sashes from opening?

No. Properly fitted seals are designed so the sashes still slide. The windows are usually eased and rebalanced at the same time, so they often run better afterwards.