Other factors that affect the cost of sash windows
Apart from the obvious frame material and glazing options, there are also plenty of other choices you need to consider when configuring your perfect window. All of these will make a difference to the cost, so when you compare your prices, make sure you are comparing like-for-like to cover all of these.
Number of Windows: When ordering windows, due to installation there is economy at scale. The more you order, the cheaper each window will be. Only one window would be more expensive than the cost per window when installing ten windows.
Decorative glass: another option to consider is the inclusion of decorative glass in your windows. For example, privacy glass in bathrooms or overlooked rooms. Or, decorative patterns that echo Edwardian and Victorian styling.
Furniture and accessories: To complement Georgian styling, Georgian bars and sash horns can be applied to the frames. Also, think about the hooks, lifts and sash restrictors, which all will impact the final cost of the sash window.
Dual colour and finishes: for uPVC and wooden frames, there is an option of having the frame coloured differently on the outside and inside so you can match interiors and exteriors. uPVC also has an option of a woodgrain foil finish.
Sash box removal and window sill replacement?
Sash windows comprise the sliding sashes and a box frame they are contained within. The box houses the mechanics of the windows so they can slide up and down. Older windows can use a cord and pulley and others are spring loaded.
At Everest, our sash windows are made as a full set that includes the sashes and the box. We remove the old sash box and complete a professional install of the full unit.
Sash box removal is complex and more time consuming than the replacement of a casement window frame. This does increase the installation cost. When you do get a quote, check that full sash box removal and window sill replacement is included.
Some companies offer to replace the sash only part of your window. From experience, this is not the best option to take. As an investment, it is far better to have the full sash window and box replaced at the same time.
Boxes and frames warp or drop over time and trying to fit new sashes into an older box will cause issues in the installation. Your windows might stick and be difficult to slide open. They will also never reach the maximum energy efficiency or performance as the gaps between the frames and the box cannot be made perfect.
Wooden frames have a lifespan, so if your box is older than your sash, you will need to replace this at some point and it will be less cost effective to do this in two different projects. At Everest, we only recommend replacing a full unit of sash and box together for the longevity of the window, the energy efficiency and the performance.
