A Guide to Sliding Sash Windows

Thanks to advancements in technology, it’s possible to enjoy the traditional, authentic look and feel of sash windows combined with state-of-the-art engineering to offer all the benefits of energy efficiency, noise prevention and durability that we have come to expect from PVC windows.  

If you’re looking to bring a touch of period elegance to your home or are renovating a traditional property but are cautious about the thought of PVC not complementing your desired traditional aesthetic, then our guide to PVC sliding sash windows will equip you with everything you need to know to help you make your window purchasing decision.

Originally made using timber frames which could be decorated and assembled through joinery techniques, such as corner joins and thick bottom rails, it is common for today’s sliding sash windows to favour PVC as their default material. Choosing PVC for your sash windows guarantees your windows will last a minimum of ten years, meaning you can rest safe in the knowledge that your windows will sustain the demands of bad weather conditions and retain your home’s heat, while maintaining that desired traditional aesthetic that will be admired by onlookers for decades. 

PVC windows offer low thermal conductivity due to the nature of the material. This prevents heat escaping as easily as it can with other materials, such as wood or aluminium, making the windows extremely thermally efficient. You should also notice a reduction in your energy bills – a perk that you can enjoy for years to come.

While PVC glazing was traditionally only available in white, there are now many different hues to help make your home stand out from the crowd, including options that complement the classic aesthetic of the sash style but without the maintenance of their solid wood counterparts. 

REHAU’s Heritage Vertical sliding window system offers 14 different foil options to choose from, with each wood-effect finish carefully selected to reflect natural materials and offer timeless appeal. From the natural Turner Oak and Golden Oak, to the neutral Chartwell Green and varying shades of grey PVC windows, there is now a flexibility when choosing PVC coloured sliding sash windows that will perfectly suit your taste, while keeping to the style of your home. In addition to the colour of your choice, the range also offers three sash options: slim, intermediate, or large, which each come with a deep bottom rail and traditional putty lines for a truly authentic aesthetic. 

Opting for PVC sliding slash windows also allows you to be more creative and daring with your interior and exterior design choices. For a truly traditional appearance, continue your chosen exterior finish through to the interior of your windows, including the base profile. This will create a uniformed aesthetic that replicates solid oak, making it an ideal option if you’re renovating a period property and want to retain its original charm. Alternatively, you can opt for a dual finish, allowing you to maintain a neutral interior or exterior, paired with a bolder colour on the other side.

For more information about REHAU’s range of sliding sash windows, click here. To find your nearest installer, click here.