Box Sash Windows

The name for this sash window comes from the box-like frame which contains the mechanism. Commonly known as box sashes, this type of window has been used in homes for hundreds of years in the United Kingdom. 

The frame of this window contains steel weights and sash cords. These can be moved up and down through a pulley, which is installed at the top of the window frame. The weight of the steel weights is used to balance the weight of the sash window. 

This mechanism leads to an effortless motion of opening and closing the window by simply moving the sash up or down. They are still being used for modern homes due to their many advantages such as:

• Long lasting windows
• Easy to repair due to the ease of replacing sash cords or pulleys
• Simple to use and understand mechanism
• Can be fitted in almost all traditional window openings
• Provides a unique heritage look to houses

Spiral Balance Windows

Spiral balance windows are nearly similar to box sash windows; however, they differ in their use of 2 springs inside a PVC tube instead of the standard steel weights of a box sash window. This mechanism is a modern version of the sash windows and thus, is more suited to modern homes with its own set of advantages, which are:

• Can be used to fit almost all types of window openings
• Contains thinner frames than traditional windows, making it light and less visible
• Have a cheaper cost of installation than traditional box sash windows
• Are very easy to install and secure
• Come in a wide variety of bar designs and can be made with different types of timber
• Fit for use in both modern and traditional homes.

Which Sash Window Is Best for Your Home?

Both box sash windows and spiral balance windows offer a long-lasting and durable means to retain your home’s style. Generally for more modern home designs, spiral balance windows are a better option. Their lightweight thinner frames, simpler mechanism, and cheaper installation make them ideal for new homes.

 However, due to their modern design, they are not a good fit for any traditional or older homes. In the UK, if your home is on a conservation list or is situated in a conservation area, you don’t have the option to install spiral balance windows in your home.

Box sashes are more suited to traditional and old homes; however, their more complex mechanism requires the existence of a casing on either side of the box sash window. 

Conclusion

Whether you choose box sashes or a spiral balance window for your home, both have their separate advantages and disadvantages to consider. So, if you reside in the United Kingdom and looking for the right window type for your home, visit Lancet Windows today. They are a trusted glazing and conservatory company, providing a wide range of high-performance, energy-efficient windows, doors, bi-folds & conservatories.