Saving Britain’s forgotten antiques

Don’t ditch antique sash windows. That’s the message from Dermot Cooke, founder of specialist window business Sliding Sash Solutions. The sash expert, who says these period windows are Britain’s forgotten antiques, is urging home owners to think carefully before ripping them out in favour of modern replacements.

Dermot estimates that tens of thousands of antique windows are destroyed each year in the UK alone - but many could be saved if more home owners realised that period pieces can be improved to deliver a 21st century performance.

“Sash windows were built to last for centuries,” Dermot explains, “and with today’s technology, even ancient windows can be amazingly efficient. There’s simply no need to replace them with PVC.”

To prove his point, Dermot developed the unique Solutions Brush Pile System. This design registered product, is hidden within the sash’s timber beading. It virtually eradicates draughts, rattles and pollution, and enables a smooth, safe and near-silent movement. It doesn’t, however, change the appearance of the window, so is suitable for listed buildings and conservation areas where replacement windows are deemed unacceptable.

Renovating a window costs a fraction of the price of replacing it and the Solutions Brush Pile System ensures windows fit well, thus reducing heat loss – a common problem with draughty sashes. And not to be overlooked are the environmental benefits of timber-frames over those constructed from man-made materials

For Sliding Sash Solutions to renovate a window it typically costs £225 - £240 + 5% VAT. Where possible, original materials are re-used, so only around half a bag of rubbish is generated per window, which is taken away for recycling where possible.

More information: www.slidingsashsolutions.co.uk