Top Eight Sash and Case Window Hardware Considerations

We’re often asked about choosing the best hardware for sash and case windows, whether that’s for refurbishing sliding sash windows, or manufacturing new sash and case windows. Timber windows are still popular with homeowners, especially if they live in Victorian properties and want to preserve traditional aesthetics.

There are lots of elements that come together to make traditional-looking sash and case windows a modern masterpiece of window fabrication. At Sealco, we can help with all your sash and case window hardware choices so that you can offer beautiful timber windows to customers. Here’s eight tips for choosing timber sliding sash hardware from our timber expert, Tom McGovern.

Top Tips for Choosing Timber Sash and Case Window Hardware

1. Weigh In

Traditional box sash windows use weights and pulleys to create the smooth opening. There are lots of weights that you can choose from. Traditionally, lead weights were used, because you could get a decent weight into a small space. Steel sash weights are a great alternative or for new vertical sliders with slim frames, talk to us about spiral balances.

2. Measure Up

Choosing the right heaviness for your weights is essential for sash and case windows. It’s easy to work out, using the dimensions of the window and the sash. We can calculate sash weights for you – all you need to do is send us the measurements and let us know if you would like steel or lead.

3. Choose A Cord

Sash weights hang on sash cord. Whether you use nylon or waxed cotton sash cord will depend on your own preferences. Our wax cotton cord has a polyester centre for extra strength. They are both good for a smooth opening operation and long-life durability, but for heavier applications, I’d recommend nylon.

4. Wheel-y Good Pulley

Pulley wheels, or sliding sash pulleys are mortised in to the side of the frame and the cord or chain passes over the pulley to the weight. They’re the bit of kit that is usually most desperate for replacement, because they are painted over so often. Our Endurance range offers a full range of finishes and offer a traditional look with modern technology.

5. To Re-glaze Or Not To Re-glaze?

If you’re refurbishing, chances are that the glazed units need replacing. Innovative high tack polymer sealants can help you get the job done quicker than traditional putty. It needs to be a strong but flexible seal so that the sealant stays elastic and will not shrink. Our Endurance Glazing Putty Replacement can be overpainted or stained just 2 hours after application, to speed up the refurbishment process.

6. Venting

Ventilation is a really important factor for lots of homeowners, so whether you’re fabricating new vertical sliders, or refurbishing old ones, make sure you think about what vent you’re going to fit. Matching the vent colour to the frame helps disguise it or take a look at our Aluminium Pyramid Window Slot Vent – one of the smallest on the market – to preserve aesthetics. Another option is to add sash stops for restricted sash openings for ventilation purposes.

7. Fasten It Up

There is so much hardware on display with sash and case windows, it’s really important to get the finishing touches just right. We have a full range of fasteners which look great and help to secure the window, including Brighton fasteners, Clo fasteners, Straight Arm Fasteners and Quadrant Fasteners. Brass is traditional, but polished or satin chrome give a modern twist.

8. Finish It Off

Complete the overall look of your window and improve usability with lifts, bars and handles to match your chosen fasteners. There’s a range of styles available in lots of finishes to complement individual styles.

For more on sash and case window hardware, check out our products online, or call Sealco to talk about your sliding sash window project in more detail.