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Enjoy modern comforts with classic style by converting your sash windows with double glazing
Converting your original sash windows from single to double glazing is a more affordable service, with many of the same advantages as the new double glazed sash windows. An excellent option for listed buildings, allowing you to enhance and modernise discreetly, while keeping within tricky regulations.
We have been busy providing sash window conversions now for over 10 years.
We’ve worked on houses of multiple occupancy on the Clifton Downs to townhouses overlooking Hotwells and the River Avon.
Traditional sash windows are a part of the history and original architecture of the city of Bristol. Why not keep the charm of your existing windows, whilst upgrading to a another level of thermal efficiency.
Upon enquiry we will arrange a time for a free consultation and quote. During this, we will establish whether it would be more suitable to your requirements to convert your existing single glazed sash windows to double, or fit replacements.
During the consultation, measurements of the glass will be taken and new units ordered. Our conversion process is to remove the existing glass and rout deeper rebates to house a new double glazed unit. The new units are then bedded in and puttied using a fast drying, flexible putty. The windows are then re-corded and balanced, using fresh lead to top up the existing weights in the box frames. They are then fitted with the discreet brush pile beading ready for decoration. The newly converted sash windows can then be painted after a matter of just days, in contrast to months when using other linseed oil based putties.
We have a tried and tested solution to converting windows containing glazing bars. We re-use the inside of the glazing bar to keep the aesthetic of the window and place a dividing strip through the centre of the window upon manufacture of the new unit.
We will always endeavour to achieve the best u-value (thermal transmittance) from the new double glazing when converting your sash windows, to ensure your they are as energy efficient as possible. Depending on the thickness of your sash frames, we will fit units with the highest possible thickness of cavity. The unit is also manufactured with a low emissivity coat and filled with Argon gas. A choice of black white or aluminium spacers is also available.
When converting your sash windows to double glazing we can offer obscured glass for the rooms in your home that require an extra level of privacy
Once the process has been carried out, the windows will then need to be decorated. For this we have a separate team of specialist decorators who we recommend for the work. One side of the draught proof beading is left detachable so the decorators can take the window back out to prepare and paint. Upon completion of the decoration, the windows will be fitted by the decorators and sealed in. Although the decorators are a separate company, the whole project is managed in house by New Life Sash Window co, to ensure your windows get the best possible treatment from start to finish
It still amazes me that a large amount of the sash windows fitted in the listed buildings in Bristol are 200-300 years old. This makes the conversion service even more satisfying, knowing that not only can we prolong the life of these functioning antiques, but modernise them without losing their authenticity and charm.
We’re very proud to receive wonderful testimonials for our craftsmanship, professionalism, pricing and communication. Here’s just a few of our favourites.
We perform our sash window services to the highest standard
We will always let you know when and where to expect our team
We'll estimate every job and keep you informed of project progression
Once New Life Sash Window co have finished working on your windows our recommended team of specialist decorators will take over. One side of the window beading is left detachable so that the windows can be easily removed and the decorating can begin.
We can offer acoustic laminate glass with all double glazed windows. Acoustic laminate glass is designed to reduce the unwanted noise from the outside world so that your living and working spaces can be as peaceful as possible.
Yes, using our tried and tested methods we can remove the original glazing bars and reuse them to cap the ‘duplex’ inserted double glazed unit. This helps to keep the traditional aesthetic and charm.
When restoring, converting or replacing we offer obscured glass for the rooms in your home that require an extra level of privacy.
We offer the ‘Brighton lock’ as a part of our draught proof and service package. This can be further enhanced by installing a pair of ‘security sash stops’. Both of these come in a range of finishes and add to the style and character of the window. The ‘security sash stops’ are fitted just above the meeting rail to give you peace of mind when leaving your window open and unattended. It is also useful for families with younger children, to ensure they are safe when the windows are open.
We also offer British standard safety glass as an option when restoring your windows. This has been specifically designed to reduce the risk of an accident by impact, fracture or shattering.
This depends on the property and the location of the windows.
Grade 1 listed buildings are usually refused permission.
Grade 2 front of house can be tricky but planners are gradually coming around to accepting new double glazing as both the technology and the need for the service increases. Back of house is usually accepted.
We always advise approaching your local planning authority for permission before deciding to install double glazing in your listed building.
This can be done through the direct.gov.uk website.
Yes, all double glazing conversions come with a 5 year guarantee.
We no longer offer decoration as a service. We do however have a team of specialist decorators that we refer the work to and then work alongside. This is all then project managed by Tom the company Director.
No, we remove all windows so that we can work on them from the inside.
The main consideration when making this decision is the condition of the existing windows. In some instances replacements may be unavoidable but our clients are often surprised at what can be repaired. At New Life Sash Window co we always endeavour to repair and renovate the original windows rather than replace. If however the brief is to fit all new replacements we will happily provide a quotation for our high performance Accoya® sash windows.
The cost for restoration, conversions and replacements vary depending on the size of the windows and the extent of the work to be carried out. Please do not hesitate to get intouch for a free quotation tailored to your specific needs.
Before we carry out any work we sheet up floors and belongings in any room we work in. All tools are connected to our portable dust extraction system to minimise any dust and we always aim to leave a room tidier than we find it.
Yes, we work on site and require a room to set up and work in. If the job is in multiple rooms we will liase with our clients to ensure the least amount of disturbance is caused whilst we carry out the work. If the job is on multiple floors we may require different rooms to work in, which in the long run will save money on the labour cost. For individual windows in separate rooms we require a space of 2 meters around the window
Yes. Projects are priced to reflect the travel requirements for locations outside of the greater Bristol area.
