Sash Window Draught-Proofing in London

Old sash windows rattle and let in draughts for a simple reason: there has to be a small gap all round each sash for it to slide up and down. Over the years that gap opens up as the timber shrinks and the beads wear, and the result is cold air, rattling in the wind, and higher heating bills. Draught-proofing closes the gap without stopping the window working, and it is one of the most worthwhile things you can do to a period sash window.

How we draught-proof a sash window

We take the sashes out and rout a narrow groove into the edges of the sashes and into the frame, then fit a discreet brush-pile seal (a carrier-and-pile system) into the groove. The pile presses gently against the sliding surfaces, so the sash still runs freely by hand but the draught path is closed. We renew the parting bead and staff beads with draught-stripped ones at the same time, so the whole perimeter is sealed — the meeting rail where the two sashes cross, the sides, the top and the bottom.

Done properly it is nearly invisible: from the room you see the same window, painted as before, but it no longer rattles and the draught is gone.

What it does

• Stops draughts around the sashes and at the meeting rail
• Stops rattling in the wind — the sashes are held snug
• Cuts heat loss and noise, so rooms are warmer and quieter
• Helps the sashes run better, as the beads and cords are overhauled at the same time

Draught-proofing with an overhaul

Because the sashes have to come out to be draught-proofed, it is the sensible time to renew tired sash cords, ease sticking sashes, and put right any small areas of rot. Many customers have a full window overhaul done in one visit — cords, beads, draught seal and a repaint — so the window is set up for years.

Keeping the character of the window

Draught-proofing is fully in keeping with a period or listed property: nothing of the original window is lost, and the seal is hidden in the joinery. It is far less disruptive, and far cheaper, than replacing the windows, and it keeps the look of the building.

Free estimate

Tell us how many windows you would like draught-proofed and where you are in London, and we will let you know what it will cost. Please get in touch for a free, no-obligation estimate.