OVERHAUL AND  DRAUGHTPROOFING

WHAT ISDRAUGHTPROOFING

Draught proofing seals the small gaps around timber windows and doors where cold air can enter and warm air can escape. Closing these gaps helps make your home in Sandwich feel warmer and more comfortable, while also reducing outside noise and unnecessary heat loss.

Timber naturally moves over time. Changes in temperature and moisture can cause small gaps to form around window sashes and frames. Parts may also loosen through everyday use. This is common in the Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian properties found throughout Sandwich, particularly where the original windows are still in place.

We fit discreet, high-quality brush pile seals directly into the existing joinery. These seals reduce air leakage while allowing windows to open and close smoothly. They can also help prevent rattles and limit dust and noise from outside.

For many Sandwich homeowners, draught proofing is a practical alternative to replacing original timber windows. It improves their performance without changing their appearance or removing features that belong to the character of the property. This makes it especially suitable for period homes, listed buildings and properties within the Sandwich conservation area.

Our Draught Proofing Services

At East Kent Repairs, we provide draught-proofing services for sash windows and timber doors in Sandwich and the surrounding villages. Every property is different, so we assess each window or door individually and recommend work based on its condition.

1. Initial Inspection: We inspect your sash windows or timber doors to find the source of any draughts. This may include loose glazing, gaps around the frame or areas where the timber has moved over time.

2. Quotation: Once the inspection is complete, we provide a detailed quotation explaining the work required, the materials we will use and any additional costs.

3. Professional Draught Proofing Installation: We fit a discreet sealing system that suits the style and construction of your existing joinery. The aim is to reduce draughts and rattles while keeping any visible changes to a minimum.

If further work is needed, we can also reglaze windows, repair damaged timber and overhaul sash window mechanisms. This helps ensure your windows are working properly before the draught-proofing system is fitted.
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How WeOverhaul and Draught Proof Sash Windows

Our sash window overhaul service is available throughout Sandwich and the surrounding villages. Each window is assessed individually, with the work carefully planned to improve its operation while retaining as much original timber and glass as possible.

1. Removal of Sashes: We carefully take the sashes out of the frame so that each part of the window can be properly inspected and serviced.

2. Cleaning and Inspection: The sashes and frames are cleaned and checked. We inspect the cords, pulleys, weights and timber for wear, damage or decay.

3. Repair and Restoration (if necessary): Where needed, damaged or decayed sections are repaired using materials chosen to match the existing window. We aim to retain sound original timber wherever possible.

4. New cords and weights adjustments: Worn or broken sash cords are replaced, and the weights are adjusted to help the window remain balanced and operate smoothly.

5. Fitting of Draught Seals: Discreet brush pile seals are fitted around the frame, parting beads and staff beads. These seals close the gaps when the window is shut, helping to reduce draughts and rattles.

6. Sash Reinstallation and Rebalancing: The sashes are refitted and adjusted so they open and close correctly without sticking or moving excessively.

7. Ironmongery replacement: Worn locks, lifts, pulls and restrictors can be replaced if required. A choice of finishes is available to suit both traditional and modern interiors.

8. Final Checks and Testing: Before the work is completed, each window is tested to make sure it operates smoothly and the draught-proofing system is working as intended.9:08

We choose materials that improve the performance of your windows while respecting the appearance of traditional timber joinery. This is particularly important when working on the period and listed properties found throughout Sandwich.

• Brush Pile Seals: These hard-wearing seals provide an effective barrier against draughts without being visually intrusive. They allow sash windows to move freely while helping to reduce heat loss and rattles.

• Silicone Seals: Silicone seals are useful for smaller gaps or areas where a less visible solution is needed. They remain flexible, resist moisture and help prevent air leakage without affecting the appearance of the window.

• Timber for Repairs: Any replacement timber is carefully selected to match the existing joinery in appearance, profile and durability. High-quality hardwood is used where suitable to create strong repairs that blend with the original window.

• Repair Care Resin: For small areas of timber decay, we use specialist Repair Care resin to rebuild the damaged section. This allows us to retain more of the original joinery and avoid replacing sound timber unnecessarily. The finished repair is strong, durable and ready for decoration.9:22

Choosing the right company to draught proof your sash windows can make a real difference to the comfort and character of your home. East Kent Repairs provides professional window repair and draught-proofing services throughout Sandwich and nearby areas, including Deal, Eastry, Ash, Worth, Wingham and the surrounding villages.

• Expert Craftsmanship: Our skilled carpenters and window specialists have extensive experience working with timber sash windows, casement windows and wooden doors.

• Solutions suited to your property: Every window is different. We assess its condition and recommend the most suitable repair and draught-proofing work.

• A Personalised Service: Each window is given the care and attention it needs, with the work planned around your property and requirements.

• Quality Materials: We use reliable draught-proofing systems, carefully selected timber and specialist Repair Care resin to produce durable repairs.

• Affordable Alternative to Replacement: Draught proofing and repairs can greatly improve the performance of existing windows without the cost and disruption of full replacement.

• Flexible Working Hours: We work across Sandwich and the surrounding area, helping owners of period, listed and modern properties retain and improve their timber windows.

Contact East Kent Repairs to arrange an assessment or discuss draught proofing and timber window repairs for your home in Sandwich or one of the nearby villages.

THE HISTORY OF DRAUGHT PROOFING

Sash windows became popular in Britain during the late 1600s and are now closely associated with Georgian and Victorian buildings. Many original examples are still in use today. The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings explains that traditional sash windows can usually be repaired, adjusted and draught proofed rather than replaced.As windows age, movement and general wear can create gaps around the sashes, staff beads and parting beads. These gaps allow cold air into the property and warm air to escape. Modern brush pile seals provide a discreet way to control these draughts while allowing the windows to open and close normally.This approach is particularly suitable for older properties in Sandwich, where retaining traditional windows can help preserve the character of the building. Sandwich also has a conservation area and an Article 4 Direction covering part of the town, so owners should check whether permission is required before making changes to external windows. Further information is available from Dover District Council.

Interesting Facts About Draught Proofing

• Lower heating costs: The Energy Saving Trust estimates that draught proofing around windows, doors and floors could save a typical household in Great Britain around £85 a year.

• Reduced air leakage: Research published by Historic England found that draught proofing can reduce air leakage through windows by between 33% and 50%.

• A warmer home: Reducing uncontrolled air movement helps rooms retain heat and feel more comfortable, particularly during colder weather.

• Less noise and dust: Historic England’s guidance states that draught proofing can also reduce outside noise and help keep dust out.

• Original windows can be retained: Historic England recommends repairing and draught proofing older windows where possible. This improves performance while preserving original joinery and historic glass.

• Repair is often better than replacement: The SPAB guide to upgrading timber windows explains that most old timber windows can be improved through repair, adjustment and draught proofing.

Contact East Kent Repairs to discuss sash window repairs and draught proofing in Sandwich and the surrounding villages.D