A brief history of the Sash Window

The earliest form of the sliding sash window dates back to the last quarter of the seventeenth century. It remained the most popular type of window in Britain for the next two hundred years or so. Its origin is a matter of heated debate: Being English or Dutch. The original form of the sash window consisted of two overlapping glazed frames or sashes which slide vertically. Within a few years of its invention, the more common – and easily recognizable – double hung sash window, became the standard model. This consisted of traditional two sliding sashes. 

By design, sash windows are sophisticated, as the frames should be suspended on weighted cords (or chains in some cases) through pulleys so that they will remain in any required position. The key to this sophisticated design relies on all parts being in perfect condition. The correct weights, the free moving pulleys, the right length of cord or chain which suits both the weight of the sash window and fits within the pulleys. The frames themselves should be square and fit perfectly within their housing between the staff beads and the parting beads. Think of it as a synchronised movement – one part is out and the rest will jam! 

The majority of sash windows in the UK falls into three distinctive eras : Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian. Each is distinctive in design with a few variations depending in general on the social status and wealth of the person who commissioned them when they were being built. The main distinctive variation on all designs and shapes, is the horizontal sliding sash window. These are found in Yorkshire and the West Country in particular and were largely restricted to modest dwellings. They were cheaper to build and being horizontally sliding windows, required no sophisticated counter-weight system.