The cost of sash window restoration in Edinburgh depends on the condition of your existing windows and how much work they need. A window requiring new sash cords and minor timber repairs will involve a different amount of work from one with extensive rot, damaged glazing or several areas that need rebuilding.
For this reason, we do not apply one standard restoration price to every sash and case window. An assessment allows us to see what can be retained, what needs attention and how extensive the restoration needs to be.
For many traditional windows, restoration can be a worthwhile alternative to complete replacement, particularly where the original timber remains suitable for repair.
How Much Does Sash Window Restoration Cost?
There is no reliable fixed price for sash window restoration because the scope of work can vary considerably between properties and even between windows in the same home.
A quotation needs to take account of the size and condition of your windows, how many are being restored and the repairs required. Additional work such as painting, draught proofing or glazing can also affect the overall cost.
Having the windows assessed first gives you a clearer idea of what work is actually required rather than budgeting around a general figure that may bear little relation to the condition of your property.
What Affects The Cost Of Sash Window Restoration?
The condition of the timber is one of the main considerations. Localised damage may be repairable, while more widespread rot will involve additional joinery work. Larger windows or more detailed designs can also require more work, as can a property with several windows being restored.
The working parts of the window matter too. Worn sash cords, pulleys and other components may need attention to get the sashes operating correctly again. Damaged glass or putty can add to the work required, while draught proofing may be included where improved performance is part of the project.
Painting and decoration also need to be considered. The amount of preparation required will depend on the condition of the existing finish and timber beneath it. Access can affect the work involved, particularly for windows above ground-floor level.
Ultimately, the price reflects the condition of the windows and the level of restoration they need rather than their age alone.
What Is Included In Sash Window Restoration?
Our sash and case window restoration process starts by removing the existing sashes and exposing the casement so its condition can be properly addressed.
Existing paintwork is removed where required to expose damaged or rotten timber, which can then be repaired or replaced. The sashes are also checked for damaged timber, broken glass and cracked putty before being filled and sanded as necessary.
We re-weight and re-rope the sashes using heavy-duty sash cord before installing them back into the case. Parting beads and baton rods with draught-excluding brush strips are then fitted to help the windows operate smoothly and reduce draughts.
Preparation and decoration form another part of looking after timber windows. Our sash and case window painting service uses a microporous paint system developed specifically for sash and case windows.
Where improved thermal performance is being considered, we can also discuss double glazing for sash and case windows as a separate upgrade.
Is It Cheaper To Restore Or Replace Sash Windows?
Restoration may cost less than replacement where the existing window is structurally sound and requires a manageable amount of repair. Extensive deterioration can change that calculation.
Continuing to repair windows with significant timber decay or recurring problems may not provide good long-term value. In these circumstances, sash and case window replacement may be worth considering.
Cost is only part of the decision. The condition of the original window, the performance you want to achieve and the importance of retaining original features should also be considered. We cover this decision in more detail in our guide to whether you should restore or replace your sash windows.
Can Old Sash Windows Be Restored?
Older sash windows do not automatically need replacing. Many traditional timber sash and case windows can be repaired and returned to good working order when enough of the existing structure remains sound.
An assessment is important because deterioration is not always obvious from the surface. Where rot or damage is extensive, the amount of repair required may mean other options need to be considered.
For period properties, retaining suitable original windows can also help preserve features that contribute to the character of the building.
How Long Does Sash Window Restoration Take?
The time required depends on the number of windows and their condition. A straightforward repair will involve less work than a full restoration requiring extensive timber repairs, glazing work and decoration.
Access and the extent of preparation can also influence the schedule. Painting carried out on site may be affected by the weather.
Once we have assessed the windows and established the work required, we can provide a clearer indication of what the project will involve.
Is Sash Window Restoration Worth It?
Restoration can be worthwhile when the existing sash and case windows remain suitable for repair. It allows original timber and period details to be retained while addressing problems that have developed through age and use.
Repairing damaged sections, getting the sashes operating correctly and adding draught proofing can also improve how the windows perform in everyday use. Where suitable, glazing upgrades can provide further improvements to thermal performance.
Period, listed and conservation-area properties may have additional considerations when changes to windows are proposed. Retaining and repairing appropriate original windows can therefore be particularly valuable, although the right approach will always depend on the individual property.
Get A Sash Window Restoration Assessment In Edinburgh
The most useful way to establish the cost of sash window restoration in Edinburgh is to have the windows assessed in their current condition.
Hermitage Windows specialises in the restoration and manufacture of traditional sash and case windows. We can assess the existing timber, identify the work required and discuss the restoration options that are appropriate for your property.
If you would like to understand what your windows need and what the work is likely to cost, you can call us on 0131 258 5248, email us at info@hermitagewindows.co.uk, or fill in our online contact form for a consultation and quotation.
