Windows · by style
Sash windows
A sliding sash has two panes that slide up and down past each other, the window of most Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian houses. A replacement in uPVC or timber keeps the look, adds double glazing and swaps the old weights and cords for spring balances that need no attention.
Is it right for your home?
Suits
- Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian houses
- Conservation areas, in the right material
- Replacing rattling, draughty original sashes
Good points
- Keeps the character of a period house
- Opens without anything swinging into the room
- Tilt-in versions are easy to clean from inside
Watch out for
- Dearer than a casement of the same size
- uPVC may not be allowed in a conservation area
- Timber sashes cost much more than uPVC
What sash windows cost
Sash windows typically cost £900 (one uPVC sliding sash window), with most jobs between £600 and £1,400. That includes VAT at 20%. Fitting takes 3–6 hours on site.
What you would actually pay
Typical one uPVC sliding sash window · UK- Typical installed cost Sash windows, supplied and fitted
- £750
- VAT at 20% Standard rate
- £150
- Net cost to you
- £900
If you borrowed £900.00 over 36 months at 0.0%, it would cost £25.00 a month – £900.00 in total, of which £0.00 is interest.
Illustration only – not a quote, not an offer of credit, and not financial advice. Rates depend on your circumstances and creditworthiness.
Where the money goes
| Element | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Window A made-to-measure uPVC sliding sash with spring balances and double glazing. | £480 – £1,000 |
| Fitting Taking out the old box frame and fitting the new one. | £100 – £300 |
| Making good Repairing the reveals and sill around the new frame. | £50 – £100 |
Guide prices including VAT. Your actual cost depends on your home, access and specification.
What moves the price
- Material
uPVC is the cheapest. Timber sashes, especially hardwood box sashes made to heritage standards, cost two or three times as much.
- Heritage details
Georgian bars, horns on the frame and run-through sash styles add to the price per window.
- Repair instead
Original timber sashes can often be overhauled and draught-proofed for far less than replacement, which is worth pricing too.
What should be in a quote
If a quote is missing any of these, ask why before you compare it with another.
- The material, and whether the sashes tilt inwards for cleaning
- Whether it is a true sliding sash or a casement made to look like one
- Glazing bars: real, or fixed to the glass
- Removal of the old box frame and making good
- FENSA or CERTASS registration
- The guarantee on frames, glass and the balances
Prices by region
Labour is most of the difference. Typical price (one uPVC sliding sash window), including VAT.
| Region | Typical | vs UK average |
|---|---|---|
| London | £1,100 | +25% |
| South East | £1,100 | +17% |
| South West | £990 | +10% |
| East of England | £950 | +6% |
| West Midlands | £940 | +4% |
| Scotland | £920 | +2% |
| East Midlands | £900 | UK average |
| Yorkshire and the Humber | £900 | UK average |
| North West | £880 | −2% |
| North East | £860 | −5% |
| Wales | £850 | −6% |
| Northern Ireland | £790 | −12% |
Common questions
Can old sash windows be repaired instead?
Often, yes. A sash specialist can replace cords, ease the sashes and fit draught-proofing, and the window stays original.
Are uPVC sash windows allowed in a conservation area?
It depends on the council and on any Article 4 direction. Many ask for timber on the front of the house, so check before ordering.
Get quotes for your home
A guide price only takes you so far. Local firms can price the work on your own home, and comparing a few quotes is the quickest way to see what is reasonable.
Compare free quotes