When building or renovating a home, much attention is often paid to windows, doors and façade materials. Yet there is one element that is often underestimated but technically and aesthetically significant: the sill.
A well-chosen sill not only provides a beautiful finish to windows and doors, but also protects the facade from water seepage and pollution. But which sill is best to choose for your door or window?
A sill has several functions:
Without a good sill, water can penetrate the gable or under the joinery more easily. Therefore, with windows and doors, a natural stone sill posted.
For sills, very often chosen are Belgian bluestone. This natural stone has several advantages:
In addition, natural stone has a natural structure and character. Each sill is therefore unique.
➡ Discover our Belgian bluestone sills.
Depending on the application, there are different types of sills.
Window sills are placed under windows and allow rainwater to drain away from the facade. They usually protrude several inches from the facade so that water does not run down the masonry.
Depending on the architecture and the desired finish, there are different types of window sills.
Flat sill
A flat sill has a sleek and simple profile. This type is often used in modern homes and minimalist facades.
Flat sill with upstand
In this type, a small raised edge is provided at the back. This raised edge helps prevent water from entering under the window profile.
Drainage sill
A draining sill has a slight slope so that rainwater is more easily drained to the outside. A drip groove is also often provided on the underside.
Drainage sill with cushions
In more classic homes, sills are sometimes finished with so-called “cushions” at the ends. This gives a more traditional and decorative look.
👉 Want to learn more about the different types, sizes and placement of window sills?
Then also read our article “Everything you need to know about blue stone window sills”.
➡ Check out our solutions for blue stone window sills.
For exterior doors, a wider and thicker sill is often chosen. This should not only drain water but also be sufficiently sturdy to withstand intensive use.
In modern homes, door sills are often sleek and minimalist executed, while classic homes are more likely to choose a more pronounced profile.
➡ Discover our doorsteps in natural stone.
Sills can be produced with different finishes. The choice affects both appearance and ease of use.
Common finishes are:
The right choice often depends on the architecture of the home and the type of joinery.
The thickness of a sill depends on the application and span.
Typical thicknesses are:
A thicker sill provides additional stability and durability, especially for larger openings.
The price of a sill depends on several factors, including:
As a guide price for a sill in Belgian bluestone, you can usually count on approximately €40 to €120 per running meter, depending on size and design.
A sill in natural stone is an investment that will last for decades. Because of its strength, durability and natural appearance, Belgian blue stone remains one of the most chosen materials for windows and doors.
The right choice of size, finish and placement will ensure that your sills blend perfectly with the architecture of your home and remain beautiful for years to come.
Unsure about the right size or finish for your sills?
Our team is happy to help you choose the right solution for your project.
For a front door, a door sill in Belgian bluestone is usually chosen. This material is very hard-wearing, frost-resistant and able to withstand intensive use. A thicker sill of about 8 to 10 cm provides additional stability and durability.
A window sill should be wide enough so that it protrudes several inches from the façade. This ensures that rainwater will drain correctly and not run down the gable. Often a overhang of about 3 to 5 cm provided.
Under natural stone sills, a drip groove provided. This small groove prevents rainwater from running back into the facade along the underside of the sill. This keeps the facade better protected from moisture and dirt.
The price of a sill depends on several factors such as length, width, thickness and finish. As a general guideline, for a sill in Belgian bluestone you can count on approximately €40 to €120 per running meter, depending on the design and dimensions.
Natural stone sills are low-maintenance. Regular cleaning with water and a mild cleaning product is usually sufficient. Avoid aggressive products that may affect the natural structure of the stone.
The thickness of a sill depends on the application and span. For window sills is usually given a thickness of about 5 cm used. For doorsteps or larger openings are often chosen for 8 to 10 cm, so that the sill is sufficiently solid and cannot sag.
For larger windows or sliding windows, a thicker sill may be appropriate to provide additional stability. The appropriate thickness is therefore usually determined according to the width of the opening and the type of joinery.
