Cords & Weights Sash Windows

A timeless choice for period homes, these sash windows feature a hidden counterbalance system that ensures smooth operation and classic charm. Perfect for Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian restorations.

Description

Cords and weights sash windows are a hallmark of British architectural heritage, commonly found in Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian buildings. Operated by a traditional counterbalance system, these vertical sliding windows feature a concealed mechanism of cords, pulleys, and iron weights within the frame – allowing the sash to move smoothly and remain balanced at any position.

Also known as traditional sash windows or weights & pulleys sash windows, this time-honoured design is among the most elegant and enduring choices for period restorations and properties within conservation areas. With their slim profiles, meeting rails, and often decorative glazing bars, cords and weights sash windows deliver exceptional ventilation, authenticity, and timeless visual appeal.

At Migom Design, our sash windows are manufactured using modern joinery techniques while staying true to their classic form – blending heritage charm with high-performance timber and energy-efficient double glazing. Whether restoring a listed property or creating a new build with traditional character, our bespoke cords and weights sash windows ensure precision, beauty, and lasting value.

Portfolio

Check our realisations and real-life photos of this product.

Mechanism

Cords & Weights

Traditionally operated with weights and pulleys for smooth and reliable function.

Fixed

Non-opening sash windows designed to maximise light and insulation.

Spring Balance

Operated with a modern spring-loaded mechanism for effortless use. Discover more here.

Timber

Redwood
Meranti
Sapele
Accoya
Other on request

All cords & weights sash windows are supplied with a sapele cill as standard.

Horn

Placement

No horn

External horn only

External & internal horn

Shape

1
2
3
4
5
6
Other on request

Glazing bar

Structural glazing bar with putty
Structural glazing bar with glazing bead
Applied glazing bar with infill
Applied glazing bar

Cill extension & window board

Our cords & weights sash windows can be customised with an external cill extension and a window board, both tailored to your project’s specific dimensions and requirements.

Trickle vent

Our windows can be fitted with trickle vents, not only meeting today’s building standards but also allowing for continuous air circulation to prevent condensation – all while maintaining the window’s timeless charm with a concealed design.

Options

Single colour

Both sides of the window painted to one choosen colour.

Dual colour

Internal & external sides of the window painted to different colours, including colours from different palettes.

Non-transparent

RAL

RAL9003 Signal White
RAL9010 Pure White
RAL9016 Traffic White
RAL9001 Cream
RAL6005 Moss Green
RAL6007 Bottle Green
RAL6013 Reed Green
RAL7035 Light Grey
RAL7004 Signal Grey
RAL7030 Stone Grey
RAL7003 Moss Grey
RAL7016 Anthracite Grey
RAL9005 Jet Black
Any RAL colour

NCS

NCS S 0300-N
NCS S 0502-Y50R
NCS S 2005-Y50R
NCS S 2502-Y
NCS S 7502-B
NCS S 9000-N
Any NCS colour

Farrow & Ball

No. 3 Off-white
No. 2 Hound Lemon
No. 284 Worsted
No. 198 Broccoli Brown
No. 85 Oval Room Blue
No. 57 Off-Black
Any Farrow & Ball colour

Transparent

Lazure

Redwood

Pine
Cherry
Light Oak
Afrormosia
Walnut
Any Lazure colour

Meranti

Afzelia
Teak
Light Oak
Afrormosia
Walnut
Any Lazure colour

Fasteners

Heritage

Polished Brass
Antique Brass
Polished Chrome
Satin Chrome
*Key

Mini Brighton

Polished Brass
Antique Brass
Polished Chrome
Satin Chrome

Pulleys

Polished Brass
Antique Brass
Polished Chrome
Satin Chrome

Restrictors

Angel Ventlock

Polished Brass
Antique Brass
Polished Chrome
Satin Chrome

Push Ventlock

Polished Brass
Antique Brass
Polished Chrome
Satin Chrome

Locking Ventlock

Polished Brass
Antique Brass
Polished Chrome
Satin Chrome
*Key

Lifts

Polished Brass
Antique Brass
Polished Chrome
Satin Chrome

Glazing style

Clear
Frosted
Master - Point
Kralika
Martele
Waterfal
Other on request

Glass structure

Annealed (Float)

A basic type of glass with a smooth, clear finish and excellent light transmission. It is commonly used for internal applications or secondary glazing where safety is not a primary concern, as it breaks into large, sharp shards when shattered.

Toughened (Tempered/ESG)

A safety glass that is heat-treated to be up to five times stronger than standard glass. It shatters into small, blunt fragments to reduce injury risk. Toughened glass is our standard option for windows and doors, offering excellent durability and impact resistance.

Laminated (VSG)

Formed by bonding two or more panes with a PVB interlayer, laminated glass holds together when broken, preventing shattering. It provides added security, noise reduction, and is ideal for entrance doors or areas requiring enhanced protection.

Gas

Double & triple glazed units

ArgonArgon

The most popular insulating gas for double glazing, ideal for cavities over 8mm. It improves thermal performance by reducing heat transfer compared to air-filled units.

KryptonKrypton

Perfect for narrower cavities under 8mm, krypton gas offers better insulation than argon in compact units. Commonly used in slim double glazing or heritage-style windows.

VacuumVacuum

Using a vacuum between glass panes eliminates gas conduction entirely, providing exceptional insulation. Ideal for ultra-slim units where thermal performance is critical.

Special glass units


Fire Rated Glazing (Critical)

Also known as fire-resistant or safety glass, it’s designed to withstand high temperatures and slow the spread of flames and smoke. Commonly used in escape routes, it’s vital for meeting safety regulations in critical areas.


Acoustic Isolation Glazing

Often called soundproof or acoustic control glass, this glazing reduces noise transmission – ideal for homes near traffic or noisy environments. It improves indoor comfort without sacrificing light or thermal efficiency.


Thermal Isolation Glazing

Also referred to as energy-efficient or insulating glass, it reduces heat transfer using advanced coatings, multi-pane setups, and gas fills like argon or krypton – helping lower energy costs and maintain stable indoor temperatures.


Stained Glass

Also known as decorative or coloured glazing, it features textured or tinted panes joined by lead strips to create distinctive designs. Traditionally used in period properties, modern stained glass can be double-glazed offering both visual charm and practical performance.

Interested in Cords & Weights Sash Windows?

Let’s discuss your project and find the perfect solution. We’re here to answer your questions, explore tailored options, and help bring your vision to life - because every project starts with a conversation.