Sash Windows & Energy Efficiency: What You Need To Know

The article argues that modern timber sash windows can be energy efficient despite a common misconception. Here are the key points:

• Traditional timber sash windows can be energy efficient if properly designed, installed and maintained.
• Timber itself is a natural insulator and modern windows use double glazing and draught sealing to further improve efficiency.
• Timber windows are sustainable as they can be made from FSC certified wood which requires less energy to produce than uPVC.
• With proper maintenance, timber sash windows can last for decades reducing their overall carbon footprint.

In South Devon, we’re blessed with a range of period and feature properties, many of which currently feature sash windows. In some cases, period properties in places such as the South Hams, Dartmoor, Exeter, or Plymouth, have had their original timber sash windows replaced with UPVC alternatives. We often get contacted by new home owners who might be considering fitting timber sash windows to improve the overall aesthetics of their homes but want to know more about energy efficiency.

It’s sometimes mistakenly believed that traditional sash windows are not an energy-efficient choice. If you’re interested in making your home more energy efficient, then you may wonder if fitting bespoke timber sash windows might be counterproductive. In fact, modern sash windows are highly energy efficient. Design and development techniques have evolved over the years to address potential issues such as heat loss, making them a highly suitable choice for the often-changeable South Devon climate. In addition, many of the problems sometimes associated with older sash windows could easily be avoided with correct maintenance.

Just how energy efficient are timber sash windows and what can you do to reduce heat loss, and improve overall energy consumption in your home?

Traditional design and modern efficiency

Bespoke timber sash windows have a classic, timeless design that is a common feature of period properties across the West Country. Modern sash windows have been developed to provide enhanced levels of insulation and durability. Timber sash windows when properly constructed, installed, and maintained can provide very high levels of energy efficiency.

High levels of natural insulation

Wood has always been popular as a building material, not only because of its adaptability and availability but also because of its high levels of natural insulation. It features heavily in period properties here in South Devon.

Timber helps to retain heat, and with modern design and construction techniques, this has been enhanced even further. The natural insulation properties of wood help to regulate indoor temperatures, reducing heat loss during colder months and minimising heat gain when it’s warm.

Double glazing & draught sealing

Double-glazed sash windows consist of two panes of glass separated by inert gas. This provides an additional barrier against heat transfer and outside noise. Draught sealing prevents air leakage around the window frames, ensuring an airtight seal and minimising heat loss.

Sustainable materials and practices

Timber sash windows are commonly crafted from sustainably managed forests that promote environmental responsibility. Timber from sustainably managed forests is essentially carbon neutral. Windows made from timber require less energy through the production process than those made from other materials such as UPVC. Look for certification such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) to ensure that wood has been sustainability sourced.

Durability & Maintenance

Whether you live in the wilds of Dartmoor, have a home in the heart of Plymouth or Exeter, or by the coast in Dartmouth or Torbay, timber sash windows are renowned for their longevity and durability when properly maintained. In practice, this means regular cleaning, re-painting, and sealing to ensure that windows remain in optimal condition for longer. Routine care ensures that timber sash windows can provide decades of reliable performance, reducing their overall carbon footprint over time and ensuring energy efficiency for your home. Timber sash windows ensure that your South Devon property, whether period or contemporary, looks its best for longer.

At Joinery Solutions SW, we are specialists in timber sash windows. Every window we make or repair in our South Devon joinery workshop is bespoke. Each carefully crafted piece is designed specifically for you, and then lovingly handcrafted in our FENSA-approved workshop. The manufacturing process is completed in the dedicated joinery spray booth and drying room. Our bespoke windows deliver high energy efficiency while enhancing the appearance of your South Devon property. Contact us to find out more.