Why do windows in English houses open upwards, but we do not?

The classic English style of the interior is an example of good taste, conservatism and elegance. British style involves many decorative elements and the use of high quality materials. It cannot be said that it is always practical. Often visiting old English houses, I immediately noticed the sliding windows. For a person who grew up in the vastness of the post-Soviet space, this is extremely surprising and unusual. Where did it come from and why do we not use such windows?

Ancient house with classic English windows

History of British Sliding Windows

Those "classic English" windows appeared more than 400 years ago, in the 18th-19th centuries. In the history of architecture, they are associated with the Georgian era. At that time, the design had the optimal shape, size and manufacturability. It had a minimum of metal elements, which significantly reduced the cost of production. At the same time, it was very convenient to use the structure: you could open the window halfway by removing the lower frame upwards, or just a little bit for ventilation.

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British windows look stylish even in a multi-storey building

Pros and cons of classic English windows

For any Briton, aesthetics come first, and sliding windows have a special charm and even a mysterious charm. Those who look at them associate them with legendary British castles and mysterious country mansions. Moreover, the windows bring a touch of aristocracy to the exterior of the house, which is inherent in all Englishmen without exception.

Other features for which the British prefer vertical sliding windows:

● Saving space. Flower pots, figurines and other decorative elements can be placed on the windowsill. They will not need to be removed every time the window is opened, as we do when opening the windows wide open;

● Anti-theft protection. The window frame can only be closed from the inside, so no intruders can enter the house;

● Lack of drafts. Despite the damp weather, the British do not have to worry about being blown out while sitting by the windowsill. The gap between the sashes of the vertical window is reliably protected by a sealant, and the fittings are protected by special inserts;

● The leaves are not afraid of the wind. They will not slam and close themselves, as is the case in swing windows.

Of the minuses of this distinctive feature of British houses, it is worth noting the rather large weight of the structure. The hostess will have to make an effort to open the window for airing. In addition, the type of frame will become a major obstacle in the event of fire or smoke. In this case, it is better to have a fire escape or some kind of emergency exit in your home.

English windows became part of the national architecture

Why are English windows not installed in Russian houses?

The Russian winter is radically different from the dampness and off-season coolness in England. Therefore, such a structure did not take root in our country because of its weak thermal insulation properties. It was difficult to insulate the windows manually, and the insulating material inherent in the glass unit had to be changed almost every year.

But now the difference in home improvement is becoming less noticeable. Manufacturers have learned to make English windows very warm, which allows them to be used in Russian houses to create a certain ambiance. And in modern British apartments, meanwhile, more and more often they choose ordinary double-glazed windows, instead of vertical lifting ones.

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