Three types, three eras; where did your sash windows come from?

Where did my sash windows come from?

There are three main types of sash window, an architectural feature in Britain for over 200 years that can tell you a lot about the history of a property.

With an increasing interest in conserving the historic craftsmanship of these period windows, people are now keen to renovate the designs to preserve the aesthetic appeal sash windows embody.

At Ventrolla we are specialists in the renovation of sash windows and are able to work with a variety of styles from different periods.

So how do you identify the type of windows you have and the era they originate from?

Well, there are three styles that were developed over three eras.

Single and Double Hung Sash Windows

Firstly, the single-hung sash is the oldest design dating back to Georgian times and has only one section that moves with a single pane of glass.

The Georgian’s were responsible for developing this style into the double-hung sash which was then incorporated into the architectural features of the Victorian and Edwardian age. Both sections of this style window open and close and have many variations in which the panes are placed; six-over six, four-over-four, nine-over-nine and six-over-two.

Horizontal Sliding Sash Windows

In contrast to the previous sash windows, the horizontal sliding sash which has two sashes that slide sideways rather than up and down. This design is far less common than the vertical sashes and does not belong to a period of history as such.

However, if you live in Yorkshire, this could be the type of window that sits in your house as it is thought this is where the design originated from.

Other Interpretations

If you have been unable to relate your windows to any of the above three styles, it may be that your windows are a variation on these designs. During each era, architects developed their own interpretations of the single-hung and double- hung sash window which led to additional forms.

Georgians

The Georgians particularly favoured the six-over-six design of the double-hung sash window and introduced smaller panes being separated by a number of glazing bars to the style.

Victorians

In contrast, some Victorian’s preferred one large pane of glass and chose to feature their larger sashes on the ground floor and smaller sashes in upper storeys.

Edwardian

However the Edwardian era adopted a multi-pane approach to their sashes by using multiple panes on the upper sash and a single pane of glass on the lower sash.

Round, Tall, Arched, Small – We Can Make Them All!

Whether you have windows unique to your home, or one of the more easily recognised styles of sash windows, Ventrolla can offer you a bespoke renovation service. Our joiners are a talented team with the experience to make even the most unusual windows, helping you to preserve the history and appearance of your home.

To see some examples of windows that we’ve made for some of our clients, you can visit our Instagram page and check out our Joinery and Installation highlights.