Ken Wallis – Sash Windows Specialist

I’m Ken Wallis and I started my joinery business in 1998. I specialise in the repair and restoration of sash windows. I am based in Liverpool and also cover Birkenhead, Wirral, Chester, and North Wales.

There’s a lot of Georgian and Victorian buildings in Liverpool and sash windows are a common feature. Often with listed buildings or those with a heritage status, it can be difficult to replace windows. I specialise in restoration and repair of sash windows, to ensure that windows are performing well, without compromising their heritage.

The sliding mechanism on sash windows can make them high maintenance, but with more than 20 years experience, I know that many problems can be repaired without replacing the whole window. I will look at several options for restoring sash windows, including:

• Draught Proofing
• Rot & Decay in sashes can be cutaway.
• Re-cord & Re-balance
• Sill Replacement
• Replacement Sashes
• Double Glazing
• New Bespoke Box Sashes

If a window can’t be replaced, I can build a new box sash to match the original style.

I give a professional, friendly, and reliable service and can provide an estimate over the phone. So if you need a sash window repairing or restoring, please give me a call on 07779 759549 or 0151 283 3879.

Draught-Proofing Sash Windows

Draughts occur when unwanted gaps let cold air in and warm air out. This can be common around sash windows, particularly those that rattle in the wind, due to shrinkage of the wood.

Draught-proofing is a cheap and effective way to save energy in your home or office. What’s more, the energy saving trust estimates that draught-proofing can save you at least £25 per year.

To draught-proof sash windows:

1. The top and bottom sashes are removed
2. The sash weights are checked for correct balance
3. New cords are fitted
4. Staff and parting bead are replaced with a brush glide system – unseen from normal view making it ideal for Grade 2 Listed Buildings
5. Draught seal is fitted between meeting rails.

Draught-proofing also reduces noise and allows the sashes to move smoothly in the box.

Restoration and Repair of Sash Windows

Solid wooden sash windows can be prone to problems as a result of constant exposure to the Great British weather. But don’t let that put you off; sash windows are aesthetically pleasing and – particularly in the case of listed buildings – can be restored in accordance with regulations for heritage properties.

Over time the wood – usually the sills and the bottom of the boxes – begin to rot and decay. Repairing a decaying sash window involves:

1. Cutting away the rotten wood
2. Fitting and splicing new timber
3. Adding epoxy resin to fill in cavities and make a permanent repair
4. The new timber is left in white wood primer ready for decorating

Sticking Sashes Freed Off

Another problem may arise when sash windows are painted over. Sometimes by inexperienced painters/decorators, or experienced painters who have never worked with sash windows.

Sometimes while painting the woodwork around the windows the sashes are sealed shut, no longer able to slide open.

New or Replacement Sashes

New Box Sashes added to Grade 2 Listed building in Prescot.

Assuming your building isn’t listed and you don’t require permission to make changes to the sash windows, there is always the option of replacing the sash window rather than repairing it.

Replacement box sashes may be needed if the windows are beyond economical repair due to rot, or if you would prefer to upgrade from single glazed to double glazed units.

New box sashes may also be needed for New Build Projects such as Barn Conversions.

I can supply a complete new box sash or top and bottom sliding sashes, all as bespoke replicas of the original window. I can also replace broken panes, upgrade from single to double-glazing and repair stained glass.

If you would like an informal chat, or a quick quote, give me a call on 07779 759549 or 0151 283 3879.