The different types of sash window

Sash windows have always been popular

Sash windows are a standout feature in many UK homes, especially those from the Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian eras. Today, there are many more options than just the classic “six-over-six” style.

If you’re restoring a period property, replacing old windows, or adding character to a new home, it’s important to know which sash window types are most popular with UK homeowners.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the main sash window styles, materials and mechanisms, explain how they suit different properties, and help you decide which option offers the best blend of aesthetics, energy efficiency and ease of maintenance.

By the end, you’ll be able to match your home’s era and style with the right sash window type and know what to look for when you’re ready to buy or replace.

Start with the basics

Sash windows have one or more movable panels, called sashes, that slide up and down, or sometimes side to side, within a frame. The main types are double-hung, where both sashes move, and single-hung, where only the bottom sash moves. Older windows use hidden counterweights to help them slide, while modern versions use spiral or spring mechanisms for a neater look.

Unlike casement windows, sash windows don’t open outward. This makes them a good choice for homes with little outdoor space, such as terraced houses or those in conservation areas. Their balanced look is also why they’re popular in traditional UK homes.

Traditional timber sash windows

Traditional timber sash windows are prized for their authentic look and warm feel. Made from hardwood or softwood, they reflect the designs of Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian homes and can be painted or stained to suit your property. Timber also allows for detailed features such as run-through horns, glazing bars, and shaped tops that are hard to replicate with other materials.

Timber windows need more maintenance than modern options. You’ll need to paint or stain them regularly and look after the moving parts and draught-proofing to keep them working well. For listed or conservation homes, keeping the original look is important, and many suppliers now offer period designs with double glazing and weather seals.

Modern uPVC sash windows

If you want sash windows that are easy to look after, modern uPVC sash windows are a popular choice. They copy the look of timber sashes, including the glazing bars and horn details, but use strong, low-maintenance PVC-U frames. Many of these windows meet today’s energy standards, with A-rated double glazing, brush seals, and designs that help keep heat in and noise out.

Modern uPVC sash windows work well in areas with a mix of old and new homes, where planners want windows to look traditional but owners want something long-lasting. These windows can have a woodgrain finish or come in neutral colours like white, cream, or grey to match different styles. Their mix of classic looks and modern performance makes them a strong choice for many homeowners.

Georgian sash window style

Georgian sash windows stand out for their balanced pane layouts, usually in “six-over-six” or “six-over-two” patterns. The small panes are divided by thin strips of wood or metal called glazing bars, a design that started when glassmaking was limited in the 18th and early 19th centuries. Today, glazing bars are still used to keep the classic look. Their slim, even design gives homes a neat, tidy appearance, which is common in townhouses and terraced houses.

When choosing Georgian sash windows for new projects, many homeowners opt for slim glazing bars that divide the glass into narrow sections, along with thin double-glazed units for better insulation. These options are often used in listed buildings and conservation areas, where planners require windows to closely match the originals.

Victorian sash window design

Victorian sash windows are taller and feature larger panes with fewer glazing bars than Georgian sash windows. The usual “two-over-two” design gives each sash a large pane split by a cross-bar, making a bold statement in villas and semi-detached homes from the mid-1800s to early 1900s.

Victorian sash windows often feature stained or coloured glass in the top sash, adding style without blocking light. Many modern versions keep the original shape but use soundproof or toughened glass, so you get the period look along with better security and less noise.

Edwardian sash window features

Edwardian sash windows are a mix of Georgian and Victorian styles. They usually have several small panes in the top sash and one or two bigger panes below, often in a “six-over-two” layout. This gives them a lighter, more open feel than the busier Georgian designs. Edwardian windows also have simpler details, making them a good choice if you want a classic look that isn’t too formal.

Edwardian homes often had larger windows, so modern replacements use energy-efficient glass to help retain heat. This way, you get the traditional look along with better energy savings.

Other sash window types

Besides the main period styles, there are other sash window types to think about. Horizontal sliding sash windows, or “Yorkshire sash” windows, open from side to side instead of up and down.

Single-hung sashes have a bottom panel that moves while the top stays still. These styles are common in cottages and country homes, and single-hung sashes are often easier to look after.

Flush-sash windows have an outer sash that lines up exactly with the frame, making them popular in modern or minimalist homes that want a sash-style look. These different types show how flexible sash windows can be, which is why many UK homeowners choose them to match their home’s style.

Choosing a window supplier

Knowing about the different types of sash windows, from traditional timber and modern uPVC to Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian styles, helps you choose the right window to keep your home’s character and improve comfort and energy efficiency.

Whether you have a listed Georgian townhouse, a Victorian villa, a 1930s semi or a modern dwelling, there are sash window options that fit both the look and needs of your home.

If you’re ready to move forward, book a survey with a trusted sash window supplier or installer. Look at samples, discuss glazing and hardware, and ensure your chosen style matches your home’s age and any rules. This way, your new windows will look right and add value to your home.