Classic timber sash windows bring elegance and charm to any property, but without proper maintenance they can let in unwanted draughts.
While this might go unnoticed in summer, the first cold winds of autumn often reveal the problem:
• Cold air blowing through the frame
• Warm air and heating escaping
• Rattling in even light winds
• Rainwater trickling through gaps, causing timber decay
These issues are common in older properties, yet they don’t mean your windows need replacing.
Many homeowners assume that rattling or draughty sash windows have reached the end of their life, but in most cases they can be fully restored. Replacing traditional timber windows can harm a property’s original character and reduce its heritage value.
Before choosing replacement units, it’s worth seeking advice from a specialist in sash window restoration and draught proofing. With the right care, your original windows can be made warm, smooth-running, and completely weather-tight without altering their appearance.
Professional draught proofing involves fitting discreet pile brushes or weather seals into the sashes and frame. These are made from durable, rot-resistant materials such as nylon or polypropylene.
The seals reduce gaps that allow air to enter, while still letting the sashes glide easily. According to research by English Heritage, this process can cut air infiltration through sash windows by up to 86%.
During restoration, reputable companies also:
Repair loose joints and damaged timber
Service pulleys and balance weights
Replace worn sash cords
Realign and repaint the frame
Together, these steps remove rattles and draughts, improve insulation, and extend the lifespan of your windows for years to come.
For owners of period and listed homes, professional draught proofing is one of the most cost-effective upgradesavailable. It’s significantly cheaper than full replacement and can often pay for itself within two years through reduced heating bills.
You’ll also benefit from quieter rooms, better insulation, and smoother window operation — all while keeping your home’s original style intact.
At Brown’s Sash Windows Restorations, we combine traditional joinery with modern sealing systems to make heritage windows warm, efficient, and trouble-free. We offer free surveys and no-obligation quotations across Nottinghamshire and the surrounding counties.