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Original poster

To replace my old sash windows with replica upvc?

65 replies

emsa1 · 22/03/2024 20:03

As above. My sash windows are original and our house is freezing. The windows get covered in condensation. Every morning. Mould is an issue in some rooms and ice has been known to form on the inside of some of the windows. Today I was told that it’s possible to get UPVC windows which look almost identical and are likely to not need planning permission, even though I’m in a conservation area. Has anyone gone for these and will you pleased with the results?

OP posts:
Knickersinatwist36 · 22/03/2024 22:27

No, they look awful, secondary glazing is much better, also if you have condensation you need to ventilate the house every morning. I know it is cold but all the fresh air will reduce the moisture. You could also get a dehumidifier.

If you think about it the sash windows have lasted a very long time and upvc (even the new ones) only last about 10 years before you need to think about replacing them. Keep the old ones, if the glass is original it was made in a different way and throwing it away would be awful as it will be lost forever. It can be so beautiful. Look at the SPAB website for information, they are really helpful and want to make houses warm and liveable without losing the history.

bilbodog · 22/03/2024 22:10

Secondary double glazing can be very good and not visible from outside. Please keep your original windows if you can - new ones never look as good.

Original poster
emsa1 · 22/03/2024 20:44

I’ve just been looking at these! I too would like to compromise in this way.

OP posts:
GETTINGLIKEMYMOTHER · 22/03/2024 20:41

emsa1 · 22/03/2024 20:03

As above. My sash windows are original and our house is freezing. The windows get covered in condensation. Every morning. Mould is an issue in some rooms and ice has been known to form on the inside of some of the windows. Today I was told that it’s possible to get UPVC windows which look almost identical and are likely to not need planning permission, even though I’m in a conservation area. Has anyone gone for these and will you pleased with the results?

Yes, we had some from Bygone Windows, don’t know whether they’re still going though. You have to get really close up to see that they’re not wood, and all the catches and fittings are in keeping. Quite a bit more expensive of course, but worth it IMO.

Former original wooden windows had Georgian-type small panes, and TBH just painting the inside of the double sash one in our bedroom was more than enough for me - and it would need doing again in 3 years max, not to mention the outside, too. A major job and costs a fortune if you have to pay a decorator to do it.

MereDintofPandiculation · 22/03/2024 20:39

We replaced our about 30 years ago, and they look good, although some of the “horns” have come off. But you couldn't get good quality double glazed wooden sash windows back them. Nowadays you can

Kat2328 · 22/03/2024 20:38

You'll need to check with your conservation officer but yes, they are pretty good. We have these: https://www.roseview.co.uk/products/ultimate-rose/
Buying the best I could afford was a compromise for me as I don't like plastic windows - but neither do I like maintenance. And they're a lot better than what was there before.

Ultimate Rose UK | Sash Windows UK | Sliding Sash Windows UK

Learn more about the Ultimate Rose sash window. Roseview supply Rose collection sash windows throughout the UK.

https://www.roseview.co.uk/products/ultimate-rose/

StHilarion · 22/03/2024 20:37

I replaced mine with pvc, had to get permission from local council. Good job it was granted as would have struggled to afford replacement wooden sashes. The pvc windows had to look as if they were the original. They are easier to clean and no maintenance but lack character

Original poster
emsa1 · 22/03/2024 20:37

Hello! Do you mind me asking who supplied them - and do they look unattractive from the inside as another poster has said?

OP posts:
whyismysoupcold · 22/03/2024 20:31

A house around the corner has really good quality uPVC wood grain sash windows. I enquired about them, and although they look good from the outside they're boxy, plain and boring on the inside. Which is a shame, because our wooden sash windows are in a bad way despite trying to fix, fill and paint every other year.

BarrelOfOtters · 22/03/2024 20:31

Check with planning.

but we are in a conservation area and while we need planning a lot of people have replaced wood with upvc and the newer ones look very good. We are going to planning this year to do the same as I’m fed up of draughts and condensation.

Redshoeblueshoe · 22/03/2024 20:28

Someone did that near me, they had to have them all removed. You need to check what you're allowed to do

Hatty65 · 22/03/2024 20:25

I think you'll devalue your house, to be honest. Maybe check with an estate agent?

Dodgygeezer · 22/03/2024 20:24

I’d check the rules for your conservation area. The window companies like to say they won’t need planning when they very often do

Thatnameistaken · 22/03/2024 20:16

We've got uPVC sliding sash and we love them, the house is so much warmer and they're maintenance free

giveituplucy12 · 22/03/2024 20:14

Not me, but my neighbour has, and they look lovely. I don't think you can tell, they've come a long way in the last few years and look really good. I'd definitely go for upvc rather than sit in the cold and have ice!