The Growth of the UK Timber Sash Windows Market

Timber sash windows have been used in the houses and homes of the masses for hundreds of years. Their practicality along with charming aesthetic means that it’s unlikely these windows will ever go out of fashion, and the market seems set to steadily increase for the next few years without any major decline. But what’s happening at a closer view, and why have these windows gained such a steadfast popularity?

The Figures
According to Palmer Market Research, the market for general timber windows grew by 17.1% in 2016, and is predicted to continue flourishing until at least 2019. This rise goes hand in hand with timber sash windows – if the material is more in demand then so is the style. Manufacturers have seen the popularity for these period style windows grow over recent years, and prices are also rising in response to demand. Whilst PVCu windows haven’t seen much fluctuation in price over the past fourteen years, the average cost of installed wood windows has almost doubled. However, this increase in cost doesn’t seem to have deterred many customers.

Why are Timber Sash Windows so Popular?
The aesthetics of timber sash windows alone are enough to make any window-lover swoon. Their links to the Georgian and Victorian eras add historic character to any home, and their quintessentially English appearance is a definite attraction. Consumers are becoming more likely to pay more for the appearance of these timber windows rather than their cheaper PVCu counterparts.
However, the particular rise in popularity in recent years could be put down to developments within the market and manufacture of these frames. One of the biggest downfalls perceived by consumers was their apparent difficulty to maintain compare to PVCu frames – though regular maintenance will mean timber sash windows will stick around for much longer than PVCu. With the introduction of easily applied anti-rot and protective coatings, this is no longer such a concern and has opened up the market to those who were averse to dealing with decaying wood. The mechanisms within the windows themselves have also changed. For example, many windows now use modern spiral balance counterweights instead of iron and lead sash weights for better movement. The ability to fit the frames with double and triple-glazed glass making them energy efficient has also undoubtedly increased their appeal. This modern update to a period staple has surely done wonders for their market growth.

The increase in the popularity of timber sash windows isn’t something that’s expected to waver any time soon. Manufacturers are stepping up production to cater for the demand and consumers are inevitably catching onto this trend – so if you want your windows to be as stylish as your home, it’s probably time to invest in timber.