Project: Weather-Resistant Sashes for Seaside Cottage

Coastal properties destroy windows. Salt spray, driving rain, constant wind—this Dorset cottage 400m from the sea had replacement windows fitted in 2008 that were already failing by 2023. Paint peeling, seals blown, mechanisms seized.

We built sash windows specifically for coastal exposure: meranti hardwood (naturally weather-resistant), marine-grade stainless steel hardware, and Sikkens paint system designed for extreme conditions. Each window got trickle vents because older cottages need ventilation to prevent damp.

The critical detail was the external weathering. We added deeper drip grooves, sealed all joints with marine sealant before assembly, and fitted brush pile draught seals that won’t degrade in salt air.

Installation timing mattered—we waited for a settled weather window in May when we could guarantee three dry days for the sealants to cure properly. Coastal work can’t be rushed.

Owner’s now 18 months in and reports zero issues despite two winter storms that rattled the whole village. The windows haven’t moved, the paint’s holding up, and there’s no moisture getting through. That’s what proper spec’ing gets you.

Next time someone says “all wooden windows are high maintenance,” I’ll show them this project.