Double Glazed Sash Windows London
Warm, Quiet & Period-Correct
We retrofit slimline double glazing into original timber sash frames — or build bespoke new timber double glazed sash windows from scratch. Warmer, quieter, and completely authentic. No uPVC. Ever.
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What Is Slimline Double Glazing for Sash Windows?
Double glazed sash windows in London are most commonly achieved through a slimline retrofit — fitting thin sealed double glazed units into the existing timber sash boxes, without replacing the frames. This is the least disruptive and most cost-effective approach when the original timber is in good condition.
Slimline units typically use 4mm glass with a 2–4mm air or argon gap, making them narrow enough to fit the shallow rebates of Victorian and Edwardian sash frames. Once fitted and painted, they are indistinguishable from the original single glazing — the same glazing bar patterns, the same sightlines, the same proportions.
For frames that are too far gone to save, or where a client wants a full new window, we manufacture bespoke timber sash windows with double glazing built in from the start — in Accoya®, oak, or softwood.
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Timber vs uPVC: Why It Matters
We are asked about uPVC sash windows regularly. Our answer is always the same: we don't fit them, and for good reason.
| Feature | Timber Double Glazed Sash | uPVC Sash |
|---|---|---|
| Period-correct appearance | ✓ Authentic | ✗ Visually incorrect |
| Conservation area approval | ✓ Usually permitted | ✗ Usually refused |
| Listed building suitability | ✓ Can be approved | ✗ Rarely permitted |
| Lifespan with maintenance | 50–100+ years | 20–30 years |
| Repairability | ✓ Fully repairable | ✗ Replace whole unit |
| Environmental impact | ✓ Low — natural material | ✗ High — plastic manufacture |
| Property value impact | ✓ Adds value | ✗ Can reduce value |
| Thermal performance | Excellent with slimline units | Similar |
* uPVC windows also have thicker frames and different sightlines that disrupt the proportions of period architecture. On Victorian or Edwardian properties, this is immediately apparent.
Our Double Glazing Process
Every double glazing project starts with a free site survey. We assess your frames, your glazing bar configuration, your conservation area status, and advise on the best approach before any work is agreed.
Free Site Survey
We visit, assess the frames, measure up, and advise on retrofit vs replacement. No charge, no obligation.
Written Quote
A fixed, itemised quote — per window, ex-VAT and inc-VAT. No surprises. You approve everything before we start.
Frame Preparation
We prepare the existing timber rebates for slimline units — or manufacture new sash boxes if full replacement is needed.
Glazing Installation
Slimline sealed units are carefully bedded into the timber frames with the correct back putty and glazing bead.
Draught Proofing
We install brush pile draught seals around the sashes — eliminating the biggest source of heat loss and noise.
Finish & Paint
Frames are prepared and primed ready for decoration. We leave the windows functioning perfectly and the site clean.
Double Glazed Sash Windows in Conservation Areas
Most London conservation areas permit slimline double glazing in timber frames, provided the external appearance of the window is maintained. Because our retrofit approach preserves the original frame, glazing bar pattern, and proportions, it is almost always acceptable to local planning authorities.
We have completed double glazing projects across dozens of London conservation areas — including in Islington, Hackney, Camden, Richmond, Kensington, and Wandsworth — and we know how each borough interprets its conservation policies.
Listed buildings require Listed Building Consent for window changes. While full glazing replacement is more complex, sympathetically designed slimline double glazing in accurate timber sashes is increasingly accepted by Historic England and local conservation officers. We can advise on and support your planning application.
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How Much Does Double Glazing for Sash Windows Cost?
Double glazing a timber sash window in London typically costs £650–£1,300 per window depending on size, glazing bar configuration, frame condition, and whether retrofit or full replacement is required. All prices exclude VAT at 20%. See our full sash window price guide →
All prices exclude VAT at 20%. A fixed written quote is provided after a free site survey — no guesswork, no surprises.
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Double Glazed Sash Windows FAQ
Can sash windows be double glazed?
Yes. Timber sash windows can be fitted with slimline double glazed units — typically 4mm glass with a 2–4mm gap — that sit within the original frame without altering the window's appearance. Where frames are beyond saving, we manufacture bespoke new timber sashes pre-fitted with double glazing.
What is slimline double glazing for sash windows?
Slimline double glazing uses very thin sealed units designed to fit into the shallow rebates of period timber sash frames. They provide meaningful thermal improvement over single glazing while being virtually indistinguishable from the original glazing. No bulky frames, no change to the window's appearance.
How much does double glazing for sash windows cost in London?
Double glazing a timber sash window in London typically costs £650–£1,300 per window (ex-VAT), depending on size, frame condition, and whether retrofit or full replacement is required. See our full sash window price guide for a complete breakdown.
Will double glazed sash windows look the same as the originals?
Yes. We replicate the original glazing bar profiles exactly — whether your windows have horns, ovolo mouldings, or a specific bar pattern. Once painted, slimline double glazed sash windows are indistinguishable from the single-glazed originals. Preserving your home's character is non-negotiable for us.
Can I get double glazed sash windows in a conservation area?
In most London conservation areas, slimline double glazing in timber frames is acceptable to planners because it maintains the original appearance. We have worked in conservation areas across Islington, Hackney, Camden, Richmond, Kensington, and more. We know each borough's policies and will advise you before any work begins.
Can listed buildings get double glazed sash windows?
Listed buildings require Listed Building Consent for changes to windows. While it is more complex, slimline double glazing in a sympathetically reproduced timber frame is increasingly accepted with the right supporting documentation. We can advise on and support your planning submission.
Why do you use timber and not uPVC?
uPVC sash windows are thicker, have different sightlines, and look visually incorrect on period properties. They are rarely permitted in conservation areas and actively reduce the value and character of Victorian and Edwardian homes. Timber is longer-lasting when properly maintained, fully repairable, and genuinely period-correct. We build sash windows the right way.
Do double glazed sash windows reduce noise?
Yes — double glazing provides a meaningful improvement in acoustic insulation over single glazing. For maximum noise reduction, we recommend combining double glazing with our draught-proofing system, which eliminates the air gaps that carry most street noise. Together, they can reduce perceived noise by up to 40%.
Is double glazing or draught proofing better for sash windows?
Both address different problems. Draught proofing eliminates cold air coming through gaps in the frame — often the biggest source of heat loss. Double glazing improves the glass itself. For the best result we recommend both. Many clients are surprised how warm properly draught-proofed single-glazed sash windows can be — it is sometimes all that is needed.
How long does it take to fit double glazed sash windows?
A slimline retrofit into existing frames typically takes 1–2 days per window. Full bespoke new timber sashes take 2–4 weeks to manufacture, plus 1–2 days per window for installation. We always agree a programme with you before starting — no surprises on lead times or disruption.
Get Your Free Double Glazing Survey
We'll visit your property, assess your frames, confirm your conservation area status, and give you a written quote — line by line, ex-VAT and inc-VAT. No obligation, no pushy sales.
Mon–Fri 8am–4:30pm | Sat 8am–3:30pm | All London Boroughs