Question 1

How long is the guarantee on your windows and doors?

Accepted Answer

Our products are supplied with a comprehensive warranty for your peace of mind. All timber frames and structural components carry a 20-year guarantee. Hardware and ironmongery are covered for 5 years, and all glass sealed units benefit from a 10-year warranty against failure or misting. This ensures every element of your installation is protected for the long term.

Question 2

Do I need planning permission or approval to replace my windows or doors?

Accepted Answer

In many cases, like-for-like replacement does not require planning permission. However, consent may be needed if the property is listed, situated within a conservation area, if the design or size of an opening is being altered, or if a new opening is being created. We will advise you during the survey should any permissions be required and can assist with the process if needed.

Question 3

How energy efficient are your windows and doors?

Accepted Answer

Our products are designed to meet or exceed current energy-efficiency standards. Double glazing generally achieves U-values between 1.1 and 1.4 W/m²K, with triple glazing reaching as low as 0.9 W/m²K. Doors typically fall within a range of 1.0 to 1.4 W/m²K. High-performance glass, insulated frames and warm-edge technology contribute to excellent thermal performance throughout.

Question 4

What materials and finishes are available, and which would suit my property best?

Accepted Answer

We manufacture in high-quality timber, suitable for both period and contemporary homes. Timber offers strong insulation and can be finished in any RAL colour or heritage shade to complement your property. The most appropriate choice will depend on your home’s architectural style and your maintenance preferences. We are happy to offer guidance during your consultation.

Question 5

What does your process look like from initial enquiry to aftercare?

Accepted Answer

Initial Enquiry – Contact us to discuss your project or seek advice.

Free Survey – We conduct a brief survey and assess all relevant details to prepare an accurate quotation. A second, detailed survey is booked once the quotation has been approved, during which we take precise measurements.

Quotation – You will receive a clear, itemised proposal.

Manufacture – Your order is produced to your exact specifications within an agreed timeframe.

Installation – Carried out by experienced fitters with minimal disruption.

Quality Check – We inspect the installation to ensure everything meets our standards.

Aftercare – Ongoing support, maintenance guidance and full warranty cover.

Question 6

What maintenance is required and how often should it be carried out?

Accepted Answer

Timber windows and doors typically require minimal maintenance, depending on exposure and use. We recommend occasional checks on seals, finishes and hardware to ensure smooth operation and long-term performance. Full care instructions are provided following installation.

Question 7

Do you offer site visits or surveys, and is there a cost?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide free, no-obligation site surveys. This enables us to offer accurate measurements, considered advice and an appropriately tailored quotation.

Question 8

What is the difference between sash and casement windows?

Accepted Answer

Sash windows open by sliding vertically or, in some cases, horizontally and are particularly suited to traditional and heritage properties. Casement windows open outwards on hinges and are commonly found in more modern homes, offering excellent ventilation and a clean, simple aesthetic.

Question 9

Do sash windows require special maintenance?

Accepted Answer

Maintenance for sash windows is broadly similar to that of other window types. Periodic lubrication of pulleys or balances, checks on cords or springs and care to avoid excess paint build-up will help ensure smooth operation. Modern materials and hardware mean maintenance requirements are modest.

Question 10

How do you improve insulation and reduce draughts in sash windows?

Accepted Answer

Our sash windows incorporate discreet seals, insulated frames, high-performance glazing, warm-edge spacers and refined meeting rails. Together, these significantly improve energy efficiency while maintaining the traditional appearance of the window.

Question 11

What styles of windows do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer traditional box sash windows, spiral-balance sash windows, and casement windows, all with fully bespoke designs tailored to the architectural requirements of your property.

Question 12

What mechanisms are available for sash windows?

Accepted Answer

We provide both traditional weight-and-cord systems, ideal for period homes, and modern spring-balanced systems for smoother, lower-maintenance operation. Both can be produced to meet heritage specifications.

Question 13

How do you prevent sash windows from rattling or becoming unbalanced over time?

Accepted Answer

Accurate manufacturing ensures correct counterbalance, while high-quality cords or springs maintain tension over the long term. Integrated brush seals reduce movement and noise, and professional installation ensures proper alignment. With occasional routine checks, the windows will operate reliably for many years.

Question 14

What glazing options are available?

Accepted Answer

We offer double glazing, triple glazing, slimline heritage glazing for conservation areas, laminated or toughened safety glass and acoustic or solar-control glass where required.

Question 15

How secure are sash windows?

Accepted Answer

Our sash windows incorporate reinforced locks, dual-position limiters, laminated or toughened glass, sash stops for secure ventilation and hardware tested to recognised security standards. These measures offer robust protection without compromising the window’s traditional character.

Question 16

What timber species and finish options are available for the external doors?

Accepted Answer

Our external doors are manufactured from high-quality laminated timber, selected for stability, durability and resistance to movement. We typically use engineered softwood or hardwood, depending on the project requirements. All doors can be finished in any RAL colour or heritage shade. Our finishing system is applied in controlled factory conditions to ensure excellent weather protection and long-term performance.

Question 17

How energy efficient are your timber doors and what glazing options do you offer?

Accepted Answer

Our doors are designed to provide excellent thermal performance and to meet or exceed current energy standards. U-values generally fall between 1.0 and 1.4 W/m²K, depending on the specification. We offer a full range of glazing options, including double and triple glazing, laminated safety glass, acoustic glass, slimline glazing for heritage properties and solar-control glass. All glazing units are factory-sealed to ensure consistent quality and weather resistance.

Question 18

How secure are your external doors and what locking systems do they use?

Accepted Answer

Security is a key consideration in all of our door designs. We use high-quality multi-point locking systems or clients’ supplied systems, reinforced keeps and robust hinges to ensure secure operation. Laminated or toughened glass is available where additional protection is required. Hardware can be upgraded to meet enhanced security standards, offering further peace of mind without compromising the door's aesthetic.

Question 19

What does maintenance look like for timber external doors and how often should it be done?

Accepted Answer

Timber doors require straightforward maintenance to keep them in good condition. We recommend occasional checks to ensure that the finish, seals and hardware remain in good order. We provide clear guidance after installation to help you look after your door and ensure it performs well for many years.

Question 20

Do I need planning permission to replace or install new external doors?

Accepted Answer

Like-for-like replacement usually does not require planning permission. However, consent may be needed if the property is listed, located within a conservation area, if the design is being significantly altered or if a new opening is being formed. We will advise you during the survey and, if necessary, assist with any permissions required.

Question 21

What guarantee do your doors come with and what aftercare is there from Sash Bespoke?

Accepted Answer

Our external doors come with a 15-year guarantee on the timber frame and structural components, a 5-year guarantee on hardware and ironmongery, and a 10-year warranty on all glazed units. After installation, we remain available for any aftercare advice, maintenance support and general assistance. Our aim is to ensure your door continues to perform and look its best for many years.

Timber Windows & Doors — FAQ

Timber Windows & Doors — FAQ

About Sash Bespoke

Timber Window Specifics

Timber Door Specifics

We are happy to help

Timber Windows & Doors — FAQ

Timber Windows & Doors — FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

About Sash Bespoke

Timber Window Specifics

Timber Door Specifics

We are happy to help