I'm Chris Smith, founder of Renosash, based in Stroud in the Cotswolds. At Renosash I specialise in sash window renovation, repair, restoration, draught-proofing, painting, and making double glazed sash windows. We serve homes across Gloucestershire, Cheltenham, Stroud, Cirencester, Wotton-Under-Edge, Nailsworth and nearby towns.
From day one I made sure that the name and work reflect what we do: "Renosash" means renovating sash windows, it's clear, honest.
Before starting Renosash I was frustrated by seeing well-built period homes let down by windows that creaked, leaked draughts, or had been poorly "upgraded" with cheaper alternatives. People often felt their heritage facades were ruined by unsympathetic replacements. I believed old timber sash windows deserved better: you can restore them beautifully, improve their performance, and preserve character.
I began the business believing in doing fewer things, but doing them well. Over time that focus sharpened into Renosash's core: superior sash window renovations.
The window renovation industry was filled with companies pushing modern replacements that destroyed period character, but I noticed something essential missing: specialist craftspeople who truly understood the value of preserving original sash windows. Many homeowners were experiencing:
I wanted to create a business that fills this gap, proving that restoration can match or exceed the performance of modern replacements while preserving the irreplaceable character of historic homes.
I registered the company (Renosash Limited) in February 2022. My first projects were local sash window repairs and draught-proofing jobs in and around Stroud and Cheltenham, gradually building a portfolio and word-of-mouth.
My initial service offerings included:
One early challenge was convincing clients that renovating existing windows could be as good (or better) than replacing them with modern units. Some assumed replacement was cheaper or more durable. My fix was to photograph "before and after" cases, measure thermal improvement after draught-proofing, and document client satisfaction. I also heard frustration about branding and presentation: I realised that even good technical work could lose customers if the website, logo, or imagery didn't reflect quality. (I later worked with a branding expert to improve our visual identity.)
Another issue was juggling multiple small jobs across Gloucestershire. I disciplined myself to map routes efficiently, cluster jobs in the same area, and limit travel waste.
As awareness of sash window preservation increased (particularly in listed and period houses), our enquiries rose. We took care not to expand too fast. Each team member had to match our workmanship and attention to detail.
We also became known for speciality jobs, floor-to-ceiling sashes, unusual sliding configurations, heritage glazing renovation, work that many firms shy away from.
We do sash windows and related components (draught seals, glazing, paintwork), not a broad building trade.
We understand historic buildings, conservation requirements, period detailing.
Every quote, image, vehicle livery, website page is designed to reflect the same high standard.
I show clients what we're doing, why, and how long it will take. No mysteries.
We support clients after work finishes with advice on maintenance, paint touch-ups, adjustments.
The strategies that have proven most effective for growing Renosash include local SEO and service pages by town, such as creating pages like "Cheltenham sash windows" that drive organic leads, and project galleries showcasing restoration work on our website and social media, as people love to see transformations. Client reviews and testimonials are essential, with satisfied clients providing feedback such as "We're so pleased with the work Renosash did on our sash windows, the craftsmanship is fantastic." Networking with heritage professionals by building relationships with local heritage groups, architects, and conservation officers has been valuable. Additionally, professional branding and presentation after rebranding ensured the look finally matched the standard of our work.
Through building Renosash, I've learned several critical lessons:
If I restarted Renosash today, I would make these changes from day one. I would invest earlier in professional branding with photography and clear niche articulation to win higher quality leads from the start. I would set up efficient routing systems earlier using project management software to reduce overhead waste. I would document processes sooner so growth is scalable without losing quality. Additionally, I would build stronger partnerships earlier with conservation bodies and heritage professionals.
Looking ahead, I plan to expand our reach gently into adjacent counties while keeping our standards high. I also aim to offer small heritage glass repair, training courses for homeowners in sash maintenance, and possibly partnerships with local conservation bodies. I want Renosash to be known first when someone thinks "sash window repair" in any Cotswold or Gloucestershire area.
I'll continue investing in photography, process, and the team, the work must always speak for itself.
Restoring your original timber sash windows preserves the unique character and heritage of your home, something modern replacements often compromise. A professional restoration can improve performance, eliminate draughts, and often proves more durable than you might think, protecting your property's historical value.
We focus exclusively on sash windows, which means we have deep expertise. Our approach is built on heritage sensitivity, understanding the needs of period properties. We combine this with clear communication, quality presentation in everything we do, and dedicated aftercare to ensure your windows function beautifully for years to come.
We provide a complete range of services, including full repair and restoration, installing effective draught-proofing systems, professional painting and finishing, and creating new double-glazed sash windows that respect your home's original style.
Renosash is based in Stroud and serves homes across Gloucestershire. This includes key areas like Cheltenham, Cirencester, Wotton-Under-Edge, and Nailsworth, as well as many nearby towns. We focus on providing a local, expert service to the region's period properties.
