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19 Feb

Double Glazed Wooden Windows for Your Home

Take a good look at each window in your home. Maybe some of them are showing their age and are almost impossible to open. This could be a good time to think about replacing them. However, there are so many options; it’s very difficult to decide what is best for your home and budget. Double glazed wooden windows can be one of the best investments you make in your property and here are a few reasons why.

Not everyone knows about window glazing and the difference between a double glazed and a standard single glazed window, so it’s best to learn about these things before you shop. Double glazed means you have two window panes per panel, instead of one.

The two glass panels are sometimes separated by air void or a special gas called argon, krypton or a combination of both, there are many benefits on double glazed windows when compared to single glazed windows.

One window pane gives you a certain amount of insulation, but two panes are much better as it creates a thermal barrier. Not only that, when you have two panes of glass, they are separated by “dead air” space and this enhances the insulating properties of the window.

If you add gas in between the panes, you increase insulation even more. However, even two panes of glass with just air between them provide excellent insulating properties.

Double Glazed windows deliver excellent energy efficiency, when you include a wooden frame, you increase that insulation even more. Wood is an excellent insulator and provides an aesthetic appeal that is unmatched, compared to all the other material selections on the market today.

Double glazed windows can also give you a much quieter home interior.

This will make a big difference if you have neighbours that like to run outdoor equipment early in the morning or on weekends. Maybe your house is not far from a playground or area where children like to play. Kids are noisy by nature and the best way to deal with this issue is to have a house that is sound resistant, and the easiest way to accomplish this, is to install efficient double glazed or even triple glazed windows, acoustic glass on the outer side will further enhance the effects.

Many people like to open their drapes in the morning and leave them open to let in light, lower their lighting needs and electric bills. However, there can be a problem with this practice. Furniture and flooring may become bleached or lightened by the sun’s UV light. To fix this problem, your local window service can install a special film on your double glazed windows. It will let in all the light you need, and also protect your home interior from harmful UV light. Modern double glazed units (the ones we use for our wooden windows) have Pilkington K glass which provides excellent UV protection.

You can choose from a wide variety of two pane window products for your home. Some are made from aluminium, vinyl, and wood. When you choose wood you enjoy many important advantages if you have an older home that you are restoring.

There are a lot of benefits to selecting double glaz

ed windows with wooden frames for your property. You will lighten your load on the environment by saving on electricity, and make your house more comfortable in winter and summer. Your window repair and restoration service is only a phone call away and there to serve your needs

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19 Feb

London Sash Window Repair Specialists

The traditional sash window remains one of the best recognized and classic styles of architecture available. Many early examples of sash windows in London have been neglected over the years and have deteriorated over time. Damage including wood rot, draught problems, rattling, and general decorative disorder are common, but new owners of such properties will often want to restore the classic windows as they see through the ugly veneer.

Mortice & Green are London sash window repair specialists and offer modern solutions to restore and repair sash windows, restoring the original beauty and integrity.

The sash window is one of the oldest architectural designs offering both aesthetic value and functionality for all sizes, types, and ages of homes. It is often constructed from solid wood that is susceptible to decay and deterioration over time. This can lead to a lack of appeal, but can be efficiently addressed with experienced and knowledgeable professionals who are familiar with the restoration of these types of structures.

The outdated design and cumbersome levers often lead to a number of operational problems over time as it becomes jammed, weights no longer work, and the structure may lead to ongoing rattling noises because of gaps in the framework. It requires the replacement of specific operational components that will aid in smoother and longer lasting functionality. This includes a clear examination of the architecture for modern and quality solutions.

Refurbishing outdated windows can save a great deal on replacing the structures and assists in the maintenance of its appealing and classic design. One of the most common problems with older frames is an inability to open and close the windows without it becoming stuck. Specialists are able to introduce specific parts and fittings including the removal of internal sashes making it possible to work from inside a property.

Specific techniques are available to improve the exterior and the operation of windows without losing its traditional appeal. The aim is to provide the building with energy efficiency and enhanced window performance without having to replace the entire structure.

Double glazing can be applied to minimize the cold from entering the living environment as it includes multiple panes offering superior insulation.

Calling on experts can aid in determining restoration methods for the enhancement of framework and structural integrity. This includes alternative methods to restore historic architecture without having to remove or replace the feature. Routine maintenance can aid in preserving its appearance and to ensure that it continues to work in a smooth and fully functional manner.

Draught sealing procedures are applied to modernize these types of windows, but also to seal any gaps that may be causing problems. If these openings are not addressed, it will cause an increase in the amount of dirt, dust, and debris that will enter the property. The aim is to restore the structures without taking away from the historic appeal and the charm of the home.

The benefits of relying on a professional service can aid in tending to rattling, improving longevity, decreasing noise pollution, and putting management methods in place that will aid in achieving smoother operation without compromising the integrity of such architecture. Sash windows remain a historical design that can be restored and mended for beautiful results.

Professionals in the field advise on the solutions available to prevent against unnecessary replacement.

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19 Feb

London Sash Window Repair Service

If your beautiful sash windows are causing you a problem, now is a good time to do something about it. No one wants to struggle with a stuck window or strain their back muscles trying to open or close sash windows in the summer.

When you have a problem with your sash windows, you could try to do the work yourself or call your local London sash window repair service. Here are several reasons that you might want to call upon professionals for this kind of work.

 

 

Perhaps your windows do not move evenly or will not stay open. This is usually a sign of a broken sash cord. You can replace this cord by yourself but it is a lot of hard work. If you are not careful with this project, you could find yourself replacing a large section of wallboard, and creating a huge mess in the process.

Maybe one of your windows simply will not open, and you have tried hard to open it and even pried on it with tools. You must be very careful with stuck windows for several reasons. First, if you pry too hard, you might end up breaking the window frame. When this happens, you’ll have to replace the frame, and this can involve considerable expense and work.

Another problem can develop with a stuck window. If it’s very hard to open, you just might end up breaking the glass pane. When this happens, you could become injured as broken glass can easily cut. Now, you now have more things to fix and could end up in A&E.

If you fail to properly care for your windows, you may notice that some of the panes are loose. This is usually caused by cracked and worn glazier™s putty (that holds the panes to the frame). In order to fix this problem, you must remove the trim and all of the old putty. Be very careful so the glass pane does not fall from the frame, when you remove the trim.

You may need to spend a great deal of time scraping off old putty, as it can be difficult to remove. To replace the putty, work it by hand until it is soft and then apply it to the windows, and then replace the trim. Also, it’s very easy to scratch or damage trim in the process, and you may need to repaint your windows once you finish the job. Be sure to choose paint that is rated for outdoor use.

There is a better way to maintain your sash windows. Instead of spending all of your spare time working, it is much easier to call a professional service. Mortice & Green have years of experience with sash windows and have all the necessary tools and skills for the job.

Once you contact Mortice & Green we will visit your home and evaluate your situation. Our window service provides a complimentary consultation, with a complete estimate for the repairs.

All of the work is done according to local building regulations and you receive a guarantee on parts and workmanship.

You only need to pick up the phone to find out more information.

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19 Feb

The History of the Sash Window

Windows have been in houses about as long as there have been houses.

Over the years, windows evolved and became more useful and functional, and a few hundred years ago, windows with movable sashes or panels became very popular. Here is information on the history of the sash window and why it is still trendy in the UK today.

The exact origin of these windows is not known. However, they have been around since at least the Sixteenth Century. Sash windows are operated by sliding separate panels vertically. Yet, there are some designs that slide horizontally. This is usually accomplished with weights, springs, and cords. For example, when one panel moves, a cord pulls a weight to make the panel move evenly and smoothly.

Sash windows were a big improvement over casement type windows, as they were easy to open for ventilation and simple to close. This was especially helpful during rainy times in the UK, as one could keep out the dampness, yet still enjoy fresh air. The design of the windows protected them from rot and warping, unlike older style windows of the day.

Perhaps some of the first known true sash windows appeared during the Georgian era.

They decorated famous places like Kensington Palace and Chatsworth House. In fact, a man by the name of Thomas Kinward (master joiner for Sir Christopher Wrens) is known to have recorded first known specifications for these windows while he was employed at Whitehall Palace. Thanks to people like Wrens, these windows became very popular all over Britain and the colonies.

Georgian design made some major improvements to the now popular window design. Before long, single movable sashes were being replaced by double sashes, which are commonly seen today. Many windows were made from sturdy and long lasting oak.

In early design, glazing bars had to be thick to accommodate expensive hand blown glass panes. Most windows had a familiar “bulls eye” design in the centre. With cheaper glass production methods, came more panes per window and glazing bars became narrower.

By the Victorian era, box sash windows became common. This was a time of orate design, and the windows reflected that period with intricate lattice work and mouldings. Windows became larger and this design was in vogue until after the First World War. Since then, more people opted for cheaper mass produced windows.

In the 21st century, many people in the UK want a traditional or historic look, and sash windows are becoming popular again. In fact, many homeowners feel that a great deal is lost when older homes lose their original windows and materials. If your house has old windows that need repair, there is no need to replace them with modern windows. Beautifully restored windows greatly enhance the appeal and value of a property, and your local window repair service can take care of all your window needs, including restoration, repairs, and new installation.

You only need to call them to schedule an appointment for a no risk consultation. It will not take long to be enjoying the windows and home of your dreams.

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03 Feb

Sash Window Repairs London but Why?

Sash window repairs, London and other interesting facts
It’s no surprise that replacement wooden sash windows are well known to be a very costly affair but it is doubtful that this is the sole reason that many in London choose to carry out sash window repairs and refurbishment instead.

A lot of people realise that their sash windows are rattly, draughty and not very energy efficient and this is the main reason for considering replacing them, but when faced with the cost involved often seek alternative measures.
This is where Sash window repair services (like us!) can help.

With modern double glazed units it is now possible to manufacture very thin double glazed units that provide the same thermal protection as traditional. This allows replacement sliding sash windows to be retro fitted into the existing box frames and even existing casement frames too.

With the box fully overhauled and repaired the new reproduction double glazed sash windows retro fit the old frames.

This is further enhanced with professional sash window draught proofing measures to provide a very energy efficient box sash window whilst still utilising the original existing period box frame.

There are many companies providing sash window repairs in London, we have been providing all manor of sash window repair services from restoration, replacement, repair and refurbishment for many years and consider sash window repairs London to be our bread and butter work.

So if you are considering sash window repairs in London and don’t want to fully replace your sash windows then give us a call.
We can repair your sash windows to ensure they work as intended whilst being draught and rattle free and we can also manufacture new reproduction sliding sash windows to fit your existing frames.
Having sash windows needn’t be a pain you can still enjoy the beauty of sash windows without having to put up with cold draughty windows!

Most sash windows can be re

paired and restored to look and work as good as new, and we can convert them to be just as energy efficient as modern replacement double glazed windows.
Call Mortice & Green Sash window repairs London today on 020 7118 9191 for more information or visit our new website here at www.londonwindowrestorations.co.uk

 

 

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03 Feb

Sash Windows London

Sash windows London


With so many new property developments in London one could be forgiven to believe that the humble sash window may have had its day, but you would be wrong.


Sash window repairs in London is big business and very competitive too!
There are an estimated 800 legitimate sash window repair companies in London and a further 5000 other construction based companies that also provide sash window repairs as part of there overall services – London and the sash window seem to go hand in hand.


The reason for such demand with regards to sash window repairs is the fact that the sash window is now almost regarded as an essential property fashion accessory. Trendy buyers will often not be interested in a property that does not have sliding sash windows or if they do buy will almost always replace the existing windows with new double glazed traditional sash windows.


Sash windows have charm, character and warmth and can make a normal looking house in a very average area stand out as the best in the street sheerly down to the fact that the windows are wooden box sashes.


The sash window does have its critics though and the most common problem you will hear regarding sash windows is that they are rattle, draughty and troublesome in the least to operate.

This is all true of an unkept sash but with the right care and know how sash windows can be put right and give many years of pleasure let use.
If a sash window is the original period window then it will definitely require some level of sash window repairs, this is often referred to as sash window refurbishment or renovation.
The process should transform the sash windows into beatific draught free fully functional windows and costs far less then full replacement.
If you require sash window repairs in London then don’t hesitate to call the friendly team at Mortice & Green!
We repair, refurbish and replace sash windows and would love to help.

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01 Dec

Sash Window Draught Proofing London for over twenty years and still going strong!

  • Are your sash windows draughty and cold?

  • Do you wish your windows would operated the way intended when original installed?

  • Do your sash windows rattle about in the frames?

  • Are your sash window painted closed?


If you answered yes to one or more of the above questions then you probably require sash window refurbishment / overhauling or as a bare minimum professional sash window draught proofing.

The following specifications are a guide to the basic refurbishment and draught stripping services that Mortice and Green provide throughout London.

Sash window draught proofing and refurb:
Remove and discard all parting beads. Remove sash windows from boxes. Clean out part bead channel and carry out any necessary repairs to ensure new part beads fit securely in place. Supply and fit Eco-brush insulation system along meeting points of the mid rail to ensure good insulation of both sliding sash windows. Re-hang both sash windows replacing all sash cords as required were broken or damaged and ensure all balances are correctly adjusted with pulley wheels serviced and lubricated. Replace all staff beads to ensure rattle free function of lower sash replacing any staff bead that is broken or damaged. Make good where staff and part beads have been replaced and/or repositioned with decorators caulk. Supply and fit new parting beading as required (fully primed) with integrated draught excluding brushes and fins so that the running surfaces of both sash windows are insulated and draught proofed. Touch up all window areas affected by the overhaul process.

Sash window refurbishment and restoration:
All of the above but including Remove all paint from both box and sash windows using either heat or chemical solution. Sand down all bare joinery and apply sealing primer coat. Carry out all necessary repairs to joints and decayed sections using new timber (hardwood) and our resin repair system. Make good to all putty lines. Remove and discard all furniture and pulley wheels. Redecorate the newly restored windows and box frames with Dulux undercoat and gloss top coat. Rehang the sash windows on new nylon core sash ropes with new pulley wheels. Replace all staff beading and parting bead for new integrated brush track draught proofing system beads. Check and ensure all windows are correctly balanced and meet in the closed position to ensure a draught proof seal.

Sash window refurbishment with double glazed reproduction sliding sash windows:
All of the above but also the following, Measure up existing box frame and manufacture new solid European oak reproduction lower and upper sash windows to match the specification and design of the original as closely as possible. Supply and fit new sash windows. All Windows to be fully painted to top coat White gloss or satin factory finish. Glazed with UK Pilkington K4.6.4 UV slimline double glazed units, toughened glass as per current building regulation control

If you are interested in having any work carried out on your sash windows then give us a call today, we have been draught proofing sash windows in London since 1994 and our expert sash window refurbishment services are probably the best in the UK.
Mortice & Green sash window repairs – Family run – Fully independent – Professional London based Sash window refurbishment and replacement specialists Since 1994

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22 Nov

Sash Window Draught Proofing London Since 1994 but why is it so popular?

Sash window draught proofing London for over twenty years, but what are the benefits?

We have been providing sash window draught proofing in London since 1994 and it is still as popular as ever and this is down to the fact the you can achieve 70% of the benefits of replacement windows for only 20% the cost of replacement windows!
Think about it, the biggest problem with old sash windows is not that they are single glazed but more so that they are often extremely draughty and rattly.

A professional will be bale to overhaul, refurbish and draught proof a sash window for under £300, the window will be completed in less than a day and you will get exactly the same level of draught proofing to that of a brand new window!

The other advantage of sash window draught proofing over replacement windows is that you will not have to deal with any manufacturing workshop turn around times. You could call up a sash window draught proofing company in London and have your windows filly refurbished and insulated within a couple of weeks of the initial call.

So in our opinion, if you are on a budget or just plain savvy then before you go ahead with replacement windows to fix your draught problem we would highly recommend considering the option of draught proofing and overhauling the windows instead.

Click here for a very interesting video on sash window draught proofing versus double glazed sash windows, don’t take our word for it English heritage say exactly the same thing and can back it all up with some pretty extensive research done in both laboratory settings and also real life scenario settings.

If you live in London and are interested in having your sash windows draught proofed and renovated than give us a call today. We have been sash window draught proofing London since 1994 and were still going strong!

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21 Nov

Is it true that We repair any sash?

We repair any sash – blog


Is it really possible to repair any sash window?


One of the most common calls we get regarding sash window repairs is “can you repair any sash window? The truth is yes, we repair any sash! But in reality of course a lot of sash windows we see are in such a state that it is just not economical viable to repair them and replacement sash windows is often advised as a more cost effective solution.

So in essence it is true to say that we repair any sash window but in reality often the client will choose replacement reproduction sliding sash windows as the cost is either the same as repairing them or in some cases less.

Sash windows are prone to rot just like any other timber product but with the right care and maintenance sash windows can last a lifetime and more. If you have sash windows that are looking worse for wear then seek advice on getting them repaired. If a sash window is left for too long then you could end up in a situation where you may need to replace them.

The best way to tell if your sash windows need repairs or restoration is to feel the surface of window window. Push down against the sash windows surface with your finger nail, the surface may look quite solid but this may only be the many layers of paint applied over the years. The wooden window below the paint could well be rotten and if so will need attention.
Common areas on a sash window that are prone to decay are the sill, bottom rails and the meeting rails. Probe such areas to see if they are solid and if you find soft areas seek advice from a professional sash window repair company.

If you are concerned about your sash windows and believe they may require sash windows repairs why not visit our home page or call us on 020 7118 9191 Mortice and Green sash window repairs London – we repair any sash window and if not economically viable we will happily provide competitive quotations for replacement sash windows. Our reproduction double glazed sash windows retrofit your existing box so no need to fully replace your box sash windows! read the following article for further information on Slimlite double glazed windows

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17 Nov

Double glazing existing single glazed sash windows, a good idea?

If you have sash windows and you live in the UK then you have probably heard about the possibilities of replacing 4mm glass with a slim-line double glazed unit to upgrade your single glazed sash windows to double glazed sash windows.

If you have not then I will explain.

The idea first came to fruition around 12 years ago but didn™t become popular due to technological limitations of double glazed units at the time making it near on impossible to hide the old fashioned large double glazing spacer behind the inner moulding of each window.

Glass companies soon exploited the initial idea and came up with new double glazed units with much smaller discreet spacers and very slim units that had all the same thermal benefits of traditional double glazed units.

This new line of slim-line double glazing has now made it possible for property owners to double glaze existing sash windows in period houses without compromising the properties original architectural heritage.

People living in conservation areas that previously could not have double glazed sash windows due to the massive change in the appearance of the window can now do so without stepping on the local conservation officers toes!

This development has seen a huge rise in the amount of companies providing this service and as you might imagine there are also many chancers trying their hand at doing it too!

Be warned if the process is not done correctly or the wrong glass is used you may end up with sash windows that end up falling apart a year or two after the work is done, or if the gaskets are exposed to sun light and not properly hidden behind the beadings of the window they will degrade and you will have misted up windows.

It is far better to have the windows inspected by a reputable sash window company like Mortice and Green first to confirm suitability and then make sure the company carrying out the sash window work knows what they are doing and is using the correct materials and glass.

There are other options to upgrading your sash windows that are comparable in price and in some ways better too. One way is to have the fixed box frame fully restored and have reproduction sash windows manufactured to replace the old single glazed windows.

The new sash windows should be identical in every way other than the fact they will have been designed for slim line double glazed units as opposed to 4mm glass.

Once fitted, the replacement sash windows will provide the same level of thermal protection as complete replacement sash windows, with far less costs and hassle than replacing the entire box sash window.

You should also remember that a double glazed sash window that is fitted into a box frame that is not properly draught proofed is not going to be any better than a single glazed sash window! The double glazed window relies on the window to be properly insulated against draughts.

You would be surprised to hear just how many windows I see across London every month that are double glazed but not draught proofed, I often wonder just what the heck the so called œsash window repair expert was thinking as he fitted the new double glazed sash windows into the draughty un-insulated box frame? It is a real puzzle¦

If you are considering having reproduction sliding sash windows made then why not give us a call? We can double glaze your existing sliding sash windows or if you prefer we also manufacture solid Oak double glazed reproduction sash windows as well!

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