Traditional Sash Windows - East Sussex

Forest Row, a charming village in northern East Sussex, sits on the edge of the Ashdown Forest and is surrounded by some of the county’s most beautiful countryside. Known for its mix of period cottages, Victorian houses, Edwardian villas, and characterful farmhouses, it has long been a desirable place to live for those seeking rural tranquillity with easy access to London. Many of the homes in and around Forest Row still feature their traditional sash windows, casement windows, and solid timber doors, which remain central to their charm and authenticity. At Traditional Sash Windows and Carpentry, we specialise in the restoration, repair, and sympathetic upgrading of these features, ensuring they remain weather-resistant, energy-efficient, and true to their original design. Whether your property is a listed cottage, a Georgian home, or a farmhouse overlooking the forest, our joinery expertise helps preserve its architectural integrity while improving comfort and performance.

Forest Row’s architecture is varied and full of history. From cottages in the heart of the village to grand period homes in surrounding hamlets such as Ashurst Wood, Withyham, and Colemans Hatch, many properties retain sash and casement windows with wooden doors that are integral to their style. These features, however, require ongoing maintenance to withstand the changing Sussex climate and the effects of time.

At Traditional Sash Windows and Carpentry, we are specialists in sash window restoration and repair, tackling everything from rotten timber to rattling or stuck frames. We replace damaged sections with Accoya or carefully matched hardwood, restore glazing bars, and reinstate original mouldings so that every window looks and functions as it should. To improve insulation and comfort, we install draught-proofing systems that discreetly seal gaps, eliminating draughts while preserving the property’s authentic character.

For homeowners seeking discreet upgrades, we offer secondary glazing and slimline double-glazed sash replacements. These solutions are perfect for listed properties and conservation area homes, providing warmth and soundproofing without compromising on period appearance.

We also provide wooden door restoration and bespoke joinery. From repairing a Victorian entrance with decorative panels to creating custom-made timber doors that suit the property’s architecture, our work combines authenticity with durability. Each door is built to enhance security, resilience, and kerb appeal, using high-quality timber and finishes to withstand the effects of weather and time.

Forest Row itself has a strong sense of community and character, with independent shops, cafés, and a reputation for its artistic and ecological outlook. Its proximity to Ashdown Forest, famous as the inspiration for A.A. Milne’s Winnie-the-Pooh stories, adds to the village’s appeal. Many properties here make the most of their views with large sash or casement windows, which are central to the home’s charm and deserve expert care.

We also adopt a preventative approach to joinery care. By applying protective coatings, durable paints, and weather-resistant finishes, we extend the lifespan of restored or newly crafted joinery, ensuring your windows and doors perform for decades with minimal maintenance.

Whether you own a centuries-old farmhouse, a Georgian cottage, or a Victorian villa, our services are tailored to meet your property’s specific needs. From full sash and casement window overhauls with draught-proofing to bespoke wooden door creation and energy-efficient glazing upgrades, we combine craftsmanship with modern reliability. Contact us today to arrange your free site visit and consultation, and let us help you maintain and enhance the character of your Forest Row home.