A sash window overhaul takes the sashes out, renews the parts that wear and puts the window back working like new. We fit new cords, timber profiles and hardware, and a hidden seal on every edge. It costs £188 per window and carries a five-year guarantee.
What an overhaul includes
An overhaul is a complete service of the window. Because the sashes come out, we can reach every part that wears. That is why it lasts.
Here is what we do on each window.
- We remove both sashes and the staff and parting beads.
- We plane the sashes so they fit the frame properly.
- We fit new sash cords and check the weights are correct.
- We supply new timber profiles for the parting and staff sections.
- We fit a draught-seal system on all perimeters.
- We refit the hardware, with new pieces where needed.
When we rebuild the window, the sashes balance. As a result, they stay where you leave them and do not slide up or down on their own.
Who needs one
An overhaul suits windows that have several small faults rather than one big one. For example, a sash may stick, rattle and drop all at once. Fixing each fault separately costs more than one visit that deals with them all.
It also suits windows that nobody has touched for years. Paint builds up, cords fray and seals disappear. As a result, the window feels heavy and draughty. An overhaul resets it, and our sash window maintenance guide explains how to keep a window in good order afterwards.
If your windows need timber repair first, we do that as part of the job, because new parts need sound timber. See our sash window repairs page for the faults we mend.
Cords, weights and balance
Cords are the part most likely to fail. First, a box sash hangs on cords that run over pulleys to cast weights. When a cord snaps, the sash falls.
During an overhaul we renew the cords and check the weights suit each sash. Then we test the window before we leave. Our article on broken sash cord replacement explains what happens inside the frame. If a cord is your only problem, our sash cord replacement service is the focused option.
Draught proofing is built in
Every overhaul includes our hidden brush-seal system. We fit it into routed grooves, because that keeps it out of sight. It stops rattles and reduces draughts and dust.
Many clients ask whether they can have the seals without the rest. You can, but the best moment to fit them is while the sashes are out. Read more on our draught proofing page.
In addition, we supply a Brighton fastener free of charge when we draught proof a window. It pulls the meeting rails together for a firmer close.
Glazing, putty and decoration
With the sashes out, we can also look at the glass. However, old putty turns brittle in strong sun. We can remove defective putty and apply fresh putty. We carry 4mm and 6mm glass in our mobile workshops.
We cannot replace glass cost effectively on its own. Therefore we do it as part of an overhaul or draught-proofing job. We then offer a full decoration service, so the finished window is ready to use.
If you want better thermal performance, double glazing existing sash windows is the next step. We can often combine it with the overhaul, since the sashes are already out.
How long the benefit lasts
Because an overhaul renews every wearing part, the window should work smoothly for years. Moreover, the five-year guarantee on our labour and the draught-proofing system gives you a clear safety net. Regular cleaning and a fresh coat of paint then keep the timber sound.
That said, an overhaul cannot fix a frame that has failed structurally. We will tell you if that is the case before you spend anything.
What it costs
The overhaul and draught proof price is £188 per window. That includes sashes out, the seal system, new sash cords, new timber profiles and new hardware.
Compare that with re-cording on its own at £120 per window. However, for a few pounds more, you get seals, profiles and hardware as well. That is why we say the overhaul is far better value when a window has more than one fault.
Extra work costs extra. For example, a small splice repair is £80 and a bottom-rail repair is £120. Our costs page lists every rate. Large sashes, bays and awkward access can change a quote, so we price in writing after a free visit.
Book a visit
Then send photos and your postcode through the contact page, and tell us how many windows you have. Although we cannot judge by photo alone, we will tell you honestly if an overhaul suits them. We cover all Greater London postcodes and often work just outside the M25, Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 18:00.