History of Sash Windows

The true origins of this type of windows have been the subject of much debate and speculation. Many believe that the design originated in Holland in the17th century, with many old Dutch paintings depicting them being proof of that. Others suggest that sash windows might have been invented in France, since the word ‘sash’ is derived from the French word ‘chassis’, which means frame. However, research carried out by Dr Hinte Louw, professor at the University of Newcastle Upon Tyne, suggests that this subtle and elegant design was invented in early 17th century in England. The earliest examples of box windows being used in England include Kensington Palace and Chatsworth House. Whichever account is true, sashes are considered to be as traditionally British as five o’clock tea, and Any self-respecting Edwardian, Georgian or Victorian house would be incomplete without this kind of windows as the key visual element.

Sash windows were first installed around 400 years ago and they became instantly popular in both old and new buildings. They offered plenty of aesthetic and practical advantages over older casement windows, e.g., they provided good ventilation whilst preventing rain from entering, they were less susceptible to rot, and they added grace to the looks of the façade, even when opened.

The early sash box windows were glazed and horizontally sliding. Towards the end of the 16th century, vertical sliding sashes became the norm, and in the late 17th century, pulleys and weights were first introduced to timber windows. This new style of windows caught on and they were rapidly installed throughout Britain. During the Georgian period, sashes were already a common architectural element, often with six or eight panes. Sash windows changed significantly in the Victorian Era and they became more ornate, using larger and better quality glass. Edwardian sashes returned to simple and clean lines of Georgian windows, but they grew in size and they were normally floor-to-ceiling high and five feet wide.

In the 21st century, the popularity of sash windows declined somewhat. However, at Inter House Windows we believe that the streets of our cities wouldn’t be the same without wooden sash windows. Therefore, we offer a broad range of services from designing, installing, renovating to restoring sashes in order to keep the British heritage alive. We possess various certificates which are a testament to the approval our products have gained over the years.
History of Victorian sash windows

Sash windows consist of at least one movable panel holding panes of glass. In this type of solutions it is quite often the case that they are separated from other panes (also known as “lights”) by special narrow muntins. Although technically any product manufactured using this type of glazing can be called a sash window, in most cases the term is used to describe woodwork, in which the panels are opened by sliding horizontally (“Yorkshire light”) or, more often, vertically.

The oldest examples of the solution come from the 1670s and can still be found in England, for instance at Ham House.
Hardwood Sash Windows

Tried and tested for centuries, box sash windows remain the most popular model of windows in the UK. It’s not hard to see why, with their reliable build that lets the air flow freely while also providing complete protection from the elements. At Inter House we offer only the highest quality box sash windows. Available anywhere in London, our products are a perfect mix of great materials and modern technologies, combines with years of experience that have gained us the trust of numerous clients. We boast a broad portfolio of window designs, ranging from simple to elaborate, so you are guaranteed to find something that will perfectly fit your house.
Advantages

Despite common misconceptions, the sashes made from timber can last for many years, if properly treated and painted. There are examples of even 100 year old constructions, manufactured with the use of traditional solutions, which are virtually unchanged over the years of use. Our wooden casement windows are guaranteed to last you a long time.
What are box windows?

Windows can become a finishing touch that ends up bringing out your home’s unique character. More modern windows come in a variety of flavours, but only one type of window can truly make your home feel truly traditional. Box sash windows, otherwise known as the double hung sliding dash, are one of the most trusted types of windows in the UK. They have been used here for centuries, and the reason is simple – they combine a balanced, elegant look with practicality. Thanks to the box which contains all the cords, weights, pulleys that are used to counterbalance the sashes, no technical details are exposed, leaving only the clean, refined lines of the window. Made from various types of materials, from wood to metal, to many others, box sash windows can fit into any home. As they open by sliding vertically, opening them takes up no additional space, which makes them a particularly excellent choice for homes with little space.
What are sliding windows?
In this day and age, we are offered a plethora of decor options. From doors to lamps, we now have a multitude of shapes, sizes, and colours to choose from and make our homes unique. This applies to windows as well. As of now, we are no longer confined to just sash or casement windows. With sliding windows, we can make our interiors and exteriors even more practical. Available in a great selection of materials and colours, from fibreglass, vinyl, and many others, sliding windows are now as versatile as traditional windows. The main difference here is that sliding windows open to the side, but they don’t use hinges to swing out or in. Instead, the window pane operates on a railing that lets it slide to the side, conserving space both inside and outside your home. A perfect solution for cramped little spaces or homes with not enough garden space, sliding windows are an elegant choice for everyone.