- Custom Replacement Sash
Custom Replacement Sash for Vintage Wood Windows
Handcrafted from appropriate wood species to match the project, with profiles and details aligned to the original design. Built to integrate with the existing frame while maintaining the overall character of the window, with options, including high-performance vacuum insulated glass, available for energy performance upgrades.
- Preservation Standards
Designed for Historic Buildings
Our custom replacement sash systems are developed with an understanding of historic preservation requirements and the realities of working on existing buildings. Each project is evaluated individually. In many cases, this means aligning with preservation standards and maintaining original material wherever possible. In others, it may include energy performance improvements or other upgrades based on the goals of the project.
Our approach is to balance performance, durability, and the character of the original window so the final result fits both the architecture of the building and the intent of the work.
We have completed more than 40 historic preservation projects, including the Oregon Supreme Court Building, University of Oregon Gerlinger Hall, Portland Center Stage, Redmond City Hall (DeMuro Award winner), Grant High School Modernization (DeMuro Award), and the Woodlark Hotel — both the Woodlark Building and the Cornelius Hotel, each listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Products Trusted By
The Accurate Alternative to Full Window Replacement
When original sash are beyond repair, or energy performance goals cannot be achieved with the existing sash, our replacement sash offer a precise, preservation-appropriate solution.
We duplicate the original sash in clear, vertical grain fir, custom-crafted to fit the existing frame opening, with no alteration to surrounding architecture, trim, or interior finishes. The result is a replacement that is architecturally accurate, structurally superior to vinyl or clad alternatives, and virtually indistinguishable from what was originally installed.
Homeowners, architects, contractors, and builders can specify replacement sash knowing the character, proportions, period detail and architectural authenticity of the original building will be maintained.
before
after
hardware
Our custom wood replacement sash are designed to preserve the appearance and character of the original windows, including the hardware. Whenever possible, existing hardware is salvaged and reused. When replacement hardware is required, we provide historically appropriate options that closely match the original design, helping maintain the architectural integrity and original personality of the building.
- Why Wood
Why Vertical Grain Fir and Why Wood at All
If a building was originally built with wood windows, there is no other material that matches it for authenticity, repairability, or longevity. Vinyl and fiberglass replacements are designed to fit most architectural styles, which means they fit none of them precisely. Clad windows have thicker sight lines, can conceal rot beneath the cladding, and cannot be maintained on an ongoing basis.
Our sash are constructed from either clear vertical grain fir or, depending on specification and availability, the same material used in the original construction of many historic Pacific Northwest buildings.
Stability and Durability
The performance of a replacement sash begins with the wood itself. Vertical grain fir and hardwood species matched to the original windows offer exceptional stability and have the ability to hold precise profiles and joinery over time, helping preserve both the appearance and performance of historic windows.
Natural Moisture Resistance
The vertical grain pattern minimizes exposed end grain, reducing water absorption and extending the life of the wood. This is why original old-growth timber windows have survived 80 to 100 years in service — and why properly fabricated VGF replacements will do the same.
Repairability
Unlike vinyl, clad, or fiberglass units, wood sash can be repaired, refinished, stained, or repainted as needed throughout their lifespan. They do not become landfill when a component fails.
- Sash Types
Double-Hung and Casement Available to Exact Specification
Chosen Double-Hung™
The most common window type in American residential and historic commercial construction. Replacing only the sash is less invasive than a full window replacement — no disturbance to surrounding trim, siding, or interior finishes. Particularly important in historic buildings where wall and trim materials may be irreplaceable.
Chosen Casement™
Casement windows became widespread in U.S. buildings from the 1920s through the 1940s, aligning with Art Deco, Art Moderne, and International architectural styles. Replacing only the sash allows the original frame — often integral to the architectural style and period proportions — to be retained. Casement windows include awning and hopper configurations.
we have different profiles
ogee
Glazing Options
- Customization
Custom to Your Project. Accurate to the Original.
Glass Patterns & Sash Configurations
We reproduce virtually any sash pattern and glass configuration, including both true divided lites (TDL) and simulated divided lites (SDL). SDL configurations allow for the use of a single insulated pane with decorative muntins applied to the interior surface. Improving thermal performance while maintaining the appearance of divided panes.
Muntin grid types available: Standard (3/8" x 1/4"), Box (3/8" x 7/16"), Flat (5/8" x 1/4"). True divided light vintage sash use OGEE style muntins.
Sash Finish
Three finish options: stain grade, primed and ready to paint, or fully painted to your specifications. Dense VGF accepts stain smoothly and evenly. When finished to the same specification as other sash, the new sash are virtually indistinguishable from existing ones.
Moulding Profiles
Ogee and ovolo profiles are available in VGF. Both profiles reflect the historical craftsmanship of vintage window construction and ensure period-appropriate replication.
Hardware
Solid brass hardware is available in antique brass, polished brass, brushed nickel, polished nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and lacquer-polished brass. Types include double-hung locks, sash lifts, casement hinges, casement arm/adjuster, casement latch, transom latch, and double-hung pulley. Window sash cord and balances are also available.
Note: Hardware is supplied separately and is not pre-installed.
- Energy Performance
Modern Energy Performance in a Period-Accurate Package
Original, single-pane glass carries a U-value of approximately 1.04. Our replacement sash with insulating glass units using Solarban 60 low-E glass with argon gas fill deliver the following performance:
| Glass Option | Type | Thickness | U-Value (IP) |
SHGC | VT | Heat Loss Reduction |
Air Leakage (cfm/ft) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solarban® 60 IGU |
Standard IGU, Argon Fill |
5/8" | 0.26 | 0.40 | 0.72 | 324 BTU/hr | 0.10 |
| LuxWall Enthermal™ + Solarban® 60 |
Vacuum Insulated Glass (VIG) |
10mm (~3/8") |
0.057 | 0.27 | 0.53 | 432 BTU/hr | 0.10 |
- Solarban® 60 IGU values are based on a 5/8" insulating glass unit with 90% argon / 10% air mix.
- LuxWall Enthermal™ VIG values are based on 10mm (~3/8") vacuum insulated glass.
Validated Performance
Independent testing by the University of Oregon shows sash-based energy upgrades can reduce the overall window U-value by approximately 25-30%, with full system improvements combining sash upgrades, weatherstripping/air sealing, and wall insulation achieving up to a 61% reduction (from 0.44 to 0.17).
Custom Orders for Architects, Contractors, and Building Owners
Every sash order is fabricated to exact specifications. Lead time and pricing depend on configuration, quantity, and glass selection. Contact us to discuss your project requirements.
Replacing doesn't have to mean compromise. Tell us about your project and we'll help you find the right sash for your building, whether you're looking for pricing, product options or expert advice.