Sash Windows Poland
Despite their British origin, sash windows have settled in the United States and still enjoy their unflagging popularity. The best proof of this is the statistics of windows sold in the USA in 2021 – single and double hung sash constructions dominated over sliding or casement systems. But let’s start from the beginning – if you came here, you may be wondering what “sash” is. In our article, we’ll take a closer look at how this window works, so you can decide if it’s the right choice for you.
After reading the article, you will know:
- What is a sash for a window
- Why are they called sash windows
- What is the difference between sash and casement windows
- When did sash windows stop being used
- If there are sash windows manufactured in Poland
- Whether sash windows are suitable for your project
What is a sash for a window?
As the name provides, window sash is a sash that surrounds the glass and holds it in the window frame. In a single-hung window, one sash is movable, allowing it to slide up and down the rail in which it is set, while the other sash is a fixed, immovable element.
In such windows, the sash is moved up and down by weights or springs, while in outward-opening windows (casement) it is opened vertically or horizontally by scissor hardware, and the window user uses a handle for this action.
Why are they called sash windows?
Of course, sash windows get their name from their sashes, also referred to as movable panels. A typical sash design typically has an upper sash and a lower sash.
In the United States, sash windows are referred to as single or double hung sash. In double hung windows, both sashes are movable, while in single hung designs only one of the sashes, usually the bottom one, can be moved.
What is the difference between sash and casement windows?
| Sash window | Casement window |
| open vertically, sliding up and down | opened with a handle, can be opened from both sides, inward or outward |
| the glass covers the fixed panel, reducing the airflow | allows air to flow freely when fully opened |
| always has a horizontal frame where the two panes meet, which limits the amount of light coming in | lets more light into the room |
| has a higher Air Leakage permeability index | are naturally better insulated and more energy efficient than sash windows because they close and lock tightly on the frame |
| fits traditional designs | fits modern designs |
When did sash windows stop being used?
While they are still in use, starting in the 20th century, the commonness of sash windows, especially in Europe, began to decline, a regression that continued through the interwar years and also after the end of World War II.
Potential reasons for this decline include:
- the cost of production, compared to easy to mass-produce wooden or metal casement windows
- the arrival of PVC profiles and the popularization of casement windows
- price higher than other models that are present on the market
- the problem of adjusting sash profiles against increasingly strict thermal efficiency regulations
- sash windows came to be considered “old-fashioned“
Recently, however, we have seen a slight increase in demand for these profiles, usually due to their appearance and recognition as an iconic element of Georgian and Victorian houses.
Sash windows in Poland
It is difficult to directly compare sash windows manufactured in the States and Poland. Why? Mainly because of what material they are commonly made of – in the US it is PVC (vinyl), and in Poland it is wood, less often aluminum. One thing is certain, like any other window profile made in Poland, double or single hung sash windows from our country are of high quality.
| USA | EU — wood | EU – aluminum | |
| Double lub single hung | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Material | Vinyl, fiberglass, wood, aluminum | Wood | Aluminum |
| Tilting sashes (for cleaning) | Yes | Not in standard | Yes |
| Estimated maximum size | up to 48” width and 91” height | up to 4’7” width and 7’1” height | up to 50” and79 height |
| Colors | A few standard colors | All from RAL palette | All from RAL palette |
| Glazing | Double or triple glazed | Double | Double |
Average price of Polish sash windows vs. price of Polish casement and tilt and turn profiles
The price of American single and double hung sash PVC starts at around $450, fiberglass costs from $800 and aluclad from $1,000. For comparison:
| Window from Poland | Size | debesto’s price |
| Wooden sash (double hung, double-glazed Ug=1,0, jointed pine, white color) | 300 × 500 mm | 929 USD |
| Casement (profile 56 mm, double-glazed Ug=1,0, jointed pine, white color, 1 tilt sash) | 300 × 500 mm | 332 USD |
| Tilt-and-turn window (profile 68 mm, pakiet 2-szybowy Ug=1,0, jointed pine, white color, 1 tilt sash) | 300 × 500 mm | 330 USD |
| Aluminum sash (double-glazed, Ug=1,0, white color, double hung with tilt) | 300 × 500 mm Has tilt sashes | 1513 USD |
In summary: sash windows are distinguished by their retro aura and will undoubtedly suit the renovation of historic buildings, but also for new construction, sash profiles will ensure its quality and prestige. They will work best in moderate climates, where thermal insulation does not play a big role, and their stylishness is the biggest advantage for you, and you reckon with their price.
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