Draught-proofing sash windows in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is renowned for its historic architecture, from elegant Georgian townhouses to traditional Victorian and Edwardian homes. Many of these properties still retain their original timber sash and case windows, which are a defining feature of the city’s conservation areas.

Every window and door is made to your exact sizes and style in our own workshop.

While beautiful, older sash and case windows are often one of the biggest sources of draughts and heat loss within a home. For properties located in conservation areas, full window replacement is rarely appropriate or approved. Draft-proofing offers a practical, conservation-friendly solution that improves comfort while preserving original features.

Why Traditional Sash and Case Windows Let in Draughts

Timber sash and case windows were built to last, but over time they naturally deteriorate due to age, movement, weather exposure and repeated use. Common causes of draughts include:

• Gaps between the sashes and the window frame
• Worn or missing parting beads and staff beads
• Loose joints and rattling panes
• Failed sash cords or weights causing poor alignment

These gaps allow cold air to enter the property and warm air to escape, making rooms harder to heat and increasing energy bills, particularly during Edinburgh’s colder months.

A Conservation-Friendly Solution: Professional Draft-Proofing

Draft-proofing is widely accepted within Edinburgh conservation areas as it improves energy efficiency without changing the appearance of the window.

At Hilston and Bennett, draft-proofing is carried out using a traditional joinery-led approach that respects the original design of the window. Wherever possible, existing timber is repaired and retained rather than replaced.

A professional draft-proofing service typically includes:

• Discreet brush or compression seals fitted into new timber staff and parting beads
• Repair and refurbishment of existing timber components
• Rebalancing sashes so they open and close smoothly
• Eliminating rattles, air leakage and cold draughts

The result is a timber sash and case window that looks original but performs far more effectively.

Benefits of Draft-Proofing Timber Sash and Case Windows

Improved Warmth and Comfort

Properly draft-proofed sash windows can reduce heat loss by up to 86%, helping rooms maintain a more consistent and comfortable temperature.

Lower Energy Bills

By reducing uncontrolled airflow, your heating system works more efficiently, helping to reduce running costs.

Reduced External Noise

Many homeowners notice an improvement in sound insulation, particularly in busier areas of Edinburgh.

Preservation of Original Features

Draft-proofing allows original glass, timber profiles and detailing to be retained, which is essential for conservation and listed properties.

Minimal Planning Implications

In most cases, draft-proofing does not require planning permission, making it an ideal upgrade for homes within conservation areas.

Draft-Proofing in Edinburgh Conservation Areas

Edinburgh has one of the largest conservation area networks in the UK, including areas such as New Town, Old Town, Stockbridge, Marchmont, Bruntsfield and Morningside.

Local planning guidance strongly favours repair and refurbishment over replacement. Improving the performance of existing sash and case windows through draft-proofing is often the preferred and recommended approach.

Combining Draft-Proofing with Full Window Refurbishment

Draft-proofing is often carried out alongside a full sash and case window refurbishment, particularly where:

• Frames are structurally sound but tired
• Sashes no longer open smoothly or stay in position
• Excess paint build-up is affecting performance

A full refurbishment, combined with professional draft-proofing, can extend the lifespan of original timber windows by decades and offers a sustainable alternative to replacement.

Specialist Timber Window Services in Edinburgh

Hilston and Bennett have extensive experience working with period properties throughout Edinburgh and surrounding areas. Their approach focuses on maintaining architectural integrity while improving comfort, efficiency and longevity.

For homes in conservation areas, draft-proofing timber sash and case windows is one of the most effective improvements you can make, enhancing comfort, reducing energy costs and protecting the character of your property.