Learn Why Double Glazed Wooden Sash Windows Will Increase The Value Of Period Homes

Traditional wooden sash windows contribute much to the appearance and elegance of many period homes, especially those dating from the Georgian and Victorian eras. Nevertheless these old units often suffer from many signs of ageing, and cause problems such as draughts, condensation, and rattling on windy days. Owners who wish to have a more modern and energy-efficient window, while retaining the elegant appearance of the originals, can now choose double glazed wooden sash replacements. This article explains why double glazed wooden sash windows can increase the value of your home.

Much of the simple elegance of many period homes is provided by the beautiful proportions of their windows. However many owners nowadays face problems with ageing windows, such as rattles, draughts, condensation problems during the winter, and catches which appear quite insecure by modern standards.

Research has shown that homes which retain original features are easier to sell, and achieve higher sale prices, than those which have experienced inappropriate modernization projects. Also many period homes are subject to planning restrictions, such as those that apply in conservation areas. These may often rule out options such as UPVC modern double glazed replacements.

Owners who wish to fix the problems from which many homes suffer, while avoiding UPVC double glazing solutions, will have two choices. They may choose either a refurbishment project, or they may choose a replacement by modern units, which can be built in quality wood, and designed to match the original style.

During a refurbishment project windows are dismantled, loose joints and other problems rectified, the glazing can be replaced by modern laminated glass (low E), pulleys and cords can be serviced, and handles and catches can be either refurbished or replaced. It is also possible to fit more modern stops and security locks.

Although a refurbishment project deals with many of the problems such as draughts, rattles, and lack of modern security, the unit is still single glazed. The low E glass, together with possible options such as heavy curtains or secondary double glazing, provide better energy efficiency than the original windows, but still will not match up to UPVC double glazing.

Those who wish to go beyond the energy efficiency improvements which are achievable with the refurbishment project, have the option of choosing newly built double glazed wooden sash windows. Authentic sash windows, built with either engineered softwood or hardwood, may be fitted. These retain the elegant proportions of the traditional design, while approaching or equaling the energy efficiency of UPVC double glazing.

Learn how double glazed wooden sash windows can boost the value of your home now in our complete overview of London sash window company and everything you need to know about sash window repair London .

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April 04 2012 | Carpentry | No Comments »

A Brief History Of Wooden Sash Windows

In recent years there has been a surge in the popularity of original architectural features, such as sash windows. In past decades, the quest to improve our homes has led to the loss of so many of these features, but now people are realizing their historical and aesthetical value.

The SASH in sash windows is derived for the French for frame, CHASSIS. It is thought that this type of window was introduced in the sixteenth century, either in Holland or England. Now, they epitomize English design of the Victorian and Georgian periods, featuring on everything from palaces to town houses.

Most commonly, sash windows are two panels, each consisting of six panes of glass. Each sash slides open, using a weight and pulley, although there are variations on this design. Usually the frames are oak, and set back from the brickwork, as it was considered a fire risk to have them flush with the building. Again, this is not always the case, as it was difficult to enforce this law.

The reason why these windows became so popular is simply that people could see through them much better than their predecessors with their tiny individual leaded panes. When Sir Christopher Wren (architect of St. Paul's Cathedral) began using them, they were here to stay.

A window tax some two hundred and fifty years ago, led many people to take out their windows and block them in, thus reducing their taxes. This raised the status of sash windows as hey were seen as a luxury that only the upper classes could afford.

Technological advancements meant that larger, individual panes of glass could be made. People no longer wanted lots of panels, and so many were ripped out to be replaced by the new design. At this stage sash windows were considered to be out of fashion.

Nowadays, we recognize the historical worth of original features, and many new build developments incorporate modern equivalents. Authentic windows are expensive to buy reclaimed, which means that keeping yours in good condition is a real long term investment. Sometimes people feel that their windows let in draughts, but there are options for upgrading them.

Renovators and homeowners now go to great lengths to restore their buildings to their former glory. Restrictions upon listed buildings means we have a responsibility to protect the appearance of historical buildings, so ripping them out is no longer acceptable. It is recognized that period houses simply do not look right with modern designs, and windows are one of the main features of a home.

Get inside info on the history of Sash Windows now in our guide to sash window refurbishment and everything you need to know about sash window refurbishment London .

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March 22 2012 | Carpentry | No Comments »