Best Angled Sash Brushes for Window Restoration: 2025 Expert Review
DR Joinery
Expert Joiner & Restoration Specialist
Painting sash windows is perhaps the most fiddly job in property maintenance. The glazing bars (muntins) are often narrow, the corners are tight, and cutting in against the glass without masking tape requires a steady hand and a superior brush.
In York's older properties, where layers of old paint often clog the mechanisms, achieving a clean, thin finish is vital for the window's operation. A standard flat brush simply doesn't offer the line of sight required for these intricate profiles.
That is why I invariably recommend an angled sash brush. In this review, I'll compare three brushes suitable for different aspects of sash restoration: a reliable trade standard, a comprehensive set for full renovations, and a larger option for deep box frames.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "‘No Bristle Loss’ Guarantee"
"Manufacturers often claim their brushes will not shed a single bristle during painting."
Even the most expensive brushes shed slightly when brand new. Always 'break in' a new brush by flicking the dry bristles vigorously or painting a scrap piece of timber first to dislodge loose filaments.
The Spec: "Suitability for 'All Paints'"
"One brush type works perfectly for oil-based gloss, water-based satin, and varnish."
Modern synthetic filaments are excellent for water-based breathable paints often used on timber today. However, for traditional oil-based lead restoration paints, natural bristles sometimes still have the edge for flow.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
Harris Trade Angled Sash Brush 1.5"
Harris
The 1.5 inch (38mm) size is the 'Goldilocks' width for sash windows—narrow enough for glazing bars but wide enough for the stiles. Harris is a staple brand in any joiner’s van for a reason: it's reliable, affordable, and gets the job done without fuss.
The Good
- Excellent price point for a trade-quality tool
- Fine tips reduce brush marks, vital for a smooth sash operation
- Good paint holding capacity for its size
The Bad
- Handle can become slippery if paint gets on the grip
- requires thorough cleaning to maintain the 'fine tip' shape
Installer Tip:
When painting the meeting rails (where the top and bottom sash overlap), this 1.5-inch size is perfect. Paint the area you can see, then slide the sashes to reveal the missed spots. Keep the coat thin here to prevent the sashes sticking together.
Priced at £2.76 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonGenixart Angled Cutting in Paint Brushes (5 Pack)
Genixart
If you are renovating a full bay window or an entire property, this set offers excellent versatility. The synthetic bristles are soft, making them ideal for modern water-based micro-porous paints which we often use in restoration to let the wood breathe.
The Good
- Synthetic bristles are excellent for water-based breathable paints
- Rubberised grip reduces hand fatigue during long painting sessions
- Stainless steel ferrule prevents rust marks on your white paintwork
The Bad
- The larger flat brushes are less useful for the fine detail work
- Slightly lighter weight than some premium trade brushes
Installer Tip:
Use the smaller angled brushes from this set for the 'scribed' moulding profiles on the glazing bars. The soft bristles help flow the paint into the grain of timber like Accoya or pine without leaving heavy ridges.
Priced at £9.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonHarris Trade Angled Sash Brush 2"
Harris
Whilst too wide for delicate glazing bars, the 2-inch angled brush is the problem-solver for the 'box' (the outer frame) and deep sills found in York's stone-built properties. It holds more paint, allowing you to cover the large flat surfaces of the box frame efficiently.
The Good
- Holds more paint for longer strokes on tall box frames
- Angled profile still allows for cutting in at the wall edge
- Robust filaments handle rougher timber surfaces well
The Bad
- Too cumbersome for standard glazing bars
- Risk of getting paint on the glass if used on the sash itself
Installer Tip:
I use this brush specifically for the internal sill and the 'staff beads' (the trim that holds the sashes in). The angle allows you to paint right down to the carpet or floorboard line without dragging the tips in the dust.
Priced at £3.82 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Why use an angled brush for sash windows?
Should I use natural or synthetic bristles for timber windows?
How do I stop paint sticking the sash window shut?
Do I need to sand sash windows before painting?
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