As energy bills continue to rise and environmental concerns grow, many homeowners in London are looking for smart ways to improve their homes’ efficiency without breaking the bank. While charming and full of character, old sash windows often struggle with draughts and heat loss, making homes colder and more expensive to heat.
Fortunately, modern draught proofing techniques not only enhance comfort but also reduce energy waste, and thanks to recent 0% VAT rules on energy-saving home improvements, investing in eco-friendly sash window upgrades has never been more affordable.
This blog explores how eco-friendly draught proofing combined with the 0% VAT benefit can help you save on the timeless beauty of your sash windows in 2025.
Thinking about upgrading the sash windows of your period home to save on energy bills and increase comfort? The London Sash Window Company specialises in expert draught proofing and bespoke sash window solutions tailored for period homes across London.
Contact us today on 020 8017 1632 or email us at office@londonsash.com for a free consultation and discover how to improve your home’s efficiency while protecting its historic charm.
Preserving the past, saving energy for the future—that’s the London Sash Window Company promise.
What is Eco-Friendly Draught Proofing?
Eco-friendly draught proofing is a sustainable home improvement technique to eliminate unwanted air infiltration through gaps in sash windows, window frames, and other structural joints. Instead of replacing original timber sash windows, it focuses on restoring them using environmentally responsible materials like recycled rubber, natural brush seals, and thermally efficient linings.
Targeting the areas where cold air seeps in drastically reduces heat loss while maintaining the historic integrity of period properties. It’s a non-invasive solution for homeowners who balance energy efficiency with aesthetics, making it perfect for listed buildings and conservation areas across the UK.
Eco-friendly draught proofing can be installed as a standalone upgrade or as part of broader sustainable renovations, including double glazing, loft insulation, or integrating solar panels—all contributing to a greener and more cost-effective home.
Also Read: Cost Of Sash Windows
Benefits Of Draught Proofing Your Sash Windows
1. Reduced Energy Bills
One of the most immediate and measurable advantages is lower energy bills. Sealing draughts prevents warm air from escaping, meaning your heating system runs less often and uses less fuel. This is especially valuable for homes with wood-fuelled boilers or older heating systems that work overtime to compensate for poor insulation.
2. Preserving Period Charm
Unlike full window replacements, draught proofing retains the original architecture of timber heritage windows, while preserving their aesthetics. This makes it ideal for period properties, especially in conservation zones with restricted modern windows.
3. Less Heat Loss And Greater Comfort
Unsealed sash windows are a primary source of heat loss, particularly in older homes. The cold is kept out using hidden draught excluders within the window frame, and comfort levels are dramatically improved without compromising ventilation.
4. Enhanced Energy Efficiency
When combined with double glazed sash windows, draught proofing contributes significantly to an overall increase in energy efficiency, which also helps to improve your EPC rating—crucial for meeting future legislation or improving resale value.
5. Cost-Effective And Low Disruption
Unlike complete window replacement or structural retrofits, draught proofing is quick to install, minimally invasive, and a fraction of the cost. It’s one of the most accessible energy-saving improvements available to UK homeowners in 2025.
Also, read other benefits of draught-proof sash windows in detail.
Understanding The 0% VAT Scheme For Sash Windows In 2025
In 2025, the UK Government continues to support sustainable home improvements through its reduced-rated VAT scheme, which currently offers a 0% VAT rate on certain energy-efficient upgrades.
Eco-friendly draught proofing now qualifies for this scheme under the energy-saving materials category, meaning you pay no VAT on materials and installation. This incentive also applies to:
- Double-glazed sash windows
- Loft insulation
- Solar panels
- Smart heating controls
The goal is to make eco upgrades more financially accessible to homeowners, particularly those living in older homes or period properties that require sensitive restoration.
How To Qualify For 0% VAT On Draught Proofing Sash Windows
To take advantage of the 0% VAT on eco-friendly draught proofing, you must ensure the work meets the following conditions:
- Residential property: The property must be your primary residence.
- Energy saving purpose: The work must improve energy efficiency, not just serve decorative or aesthetic purposes.
- Eligible materials: Only approved materials, such as brush seals and draught excluders designed for insulation, qualify.
- Professional installation: Work must be carried out by a professional provider like The London Sash Window Company, who understands how to apply the VAT exemption properly.
Always request a detailed quote that clearly outlines the energy-saving nature of the work to ensure compliance.
Also Read: Secondary Glazing Benefits
Boosting EPC Ratings With Draught Proofing
Improving your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is more important than ever. Whether you plan to rent out your home, sell it, or simply future-proof it, a better EPC rating can boost your property’s value and compliance with evolving regulations.
Draught proofing sash windows is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to improve your EPC rating, especially when combined with:
- Double glazing
- Loft insulation
- Smart thermostats
- Efficient heating systems like wood-fuelled boilers
These upgrades collectively reduce heat loss and lower carbon emissions, helping you move up an EPC band with minimal investment.
Also Read: Wooden Sash Windows Environmental Benefits
Why 2025 Is Ideal For Sash Window Upgrades
So why now? Why is 2025 the year to upgrade your sash windows?
- 0% VAT makes upgrades more affordable than ever
- Rising energy bills mean that efficiency pays back faster
- The property market rewards homes with high energy efficiency ratings
- Increased environmental awareness encourages low-carbon improvements
- More customisation options are available than ever before for sash restoration and draught proofing
With government support, better materials, and expert services, 2025 presents a golden opportunity to enhance your home without sacrificing its history or style.
Also Read: Double Vs. Triple Glazing
CONTACT THE LONDON SASH WINDOW COMPANY
Conclusion
Choosing eco-friendly draught proofing for your timber sash windows isn’t just about immediate cost savings—it’s about long-term energy saving, increased property value, and preserving the charm of your period property. With the added benefit of 0% VAT in 2025, this is one of the most innovative ways to make your home warmer, greener, and more efficient.
Thinking about making your sash windows warmer and more energy-efficient? The London Sash Window Company is here to help. We specialise in eco-conscious upgrades for traditional homes, from draught proofing to double-glazed sash windows. So, whether you need a sash window repair or replacement, we tailor to your home’s heritage and budget.
Call us now on 020 8017 1632 or email us at office@londonsash.com and let us help you future-proof your home while honouring its past — with elegance, precision, and comfort.