Tag - wooden windows

UPVC or Wooden Windows – Which is superior?

Buying and installing new windows can be a pricy and daunting experience, but it can also be incredibly gratifying, exciting, and impactful. So much needs to be considered when choosing the right windows, aesthetically they can make a massive difference to the overall look and feel of your home, they can add significant value to your property, and they also very practically protect the house against weather, drafts, dirt in addition to outside noises and providing security.

Many grapples with what materials and designs to choose from nowadays. UPVC and Wooden Windows are popular choices, so which is best and what is the right choice for you?

UPVC

UPVC an abbreviation for unplasticised polyvinyl chloride; this material is a robust and lightweight material frequently used in construction work. In addition, it is a low-maintenance material that is relatively inexpensive.

Benefits

  • Bespoke finishes mean manufacturers can customise your windows to suit your tastes in colour, shape, styles, and effects; you can use this lower-cost material to look how you like.
  • With unique locking features combined with a double-glazed pane of glass, this is a secure installation for your home against intruders.
  • This highly durable weather resident choice makes it a sound barrier against aggressive weather and general wear and tear.
  • Plastic can remain in excellent condition for an extended period as a low-maintenance material. While natural materials may require upkeep, including vanishing, sanding, and repainting, windows main from UPVC can last decades without signs of damage.

Wooden Windows

Wooden Windows are a durable choice; they are excellent insulators and are aesthetically pleasing. As a result, wooden windows are a solid choice for all residential and commercial homes.

Benefits

  • It is aesthetically pleasing with a natural, warm finish that is distinctive from real wood.
  • As a renewable material, it is a kinder choice for the environment.
  • A powerful natural insulator, it keeps the house warm in the winter and cools in the summer. It should help reduce your energy bills and provide a cosier feel in the home.
  • As wood is a sturdy material, it doesn’t need replacing as quickly, meaning you get more for your money.

Though there are many advantages to both choices, it is worth noting that both have drawbacks to consider – UPVC, although it can be tailored in design, does not have the same aesthetic appeal or natural attraction that other materials may possess. Depending on your home, whether modern or more traditional, it can look out of place. Wooden windows also have drawbacks; though beautiful, environmentally friendly, and kind to your energy bills, wooden windows can be incredibly high maintenance. We must consider weathered erosion, repainting demands, potential rot, and in some cases, replacements; wood does require annual tidying at the very least.

Your home or property deserves the very best, so it is essential to consider which choice best suits the style of your home, the overall requirements you expect, and budget and style. For more information on the right choice for you, contact us today for a free consultation.

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Sash Windows vs Casement Windows

When it comes to choosing windows, it™s between sash and casement windows which both have their differences in the way that they function.

The correct window makes all the difference when it comes to the property™s look. There are two principal types of windows: casement and sash. Once the correct type is chosen, it™s best for consistency to have the same style throughout the house.

The main difference between a sash and casement window is as follows: casement windows are very common and come with hinges that allow them to swing open easily. They are bought in pairs. They have a crank which also allows the window to lock in place “ usually a handle fits into place. The benefits of it are it prevents the wind from pushing the window out of place.

Sash windows are different and remain popular “ they are made up of multiple panels that slide on top of another to create separate individual openings. There are two main types of sash windows: those with two mobile sashes and the others which have one fixed and a mobile sash.

The Advantages of Casement Windows

The debate centres on which is the best one for the actual home environment. Casement windows are very energy efficient allowing for a tight seal.

Casement windows have a popular modern look ideal for the domestic setting “ as well as being available in a variety of materials and styles.

The casement window allows for better protection against home invasion, as they provide resistance to break ins. They would have to smash the window to break in which would alert anyone in the premises.

The greatest advantage is large glass panels which allows the most amount of light to enter.

The Advantages of Sash Windows

Sash windows can open easily and have a more basic design with less room for functioning problems. This also allows for an easy fix if there™s a problem.

They provide a traditional look that complements the interior design of most period properties.

Another benefit is it opens inwards which means that no matter where the window is located, you™ll be able to open it and let the air inside without external obstruction.

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Different Types Of Sash Windows

Sash windows are characterised by two panels that slide past each other to open. These panels or sashes slide side to side or up and down. Unlike other designs, a sash window does not have a hinge opening, making it a popular choice for period properties.

Regardless, sash windows come in a range of styles, mechanisms, glazing types and frames that make them suitable for a variety of homes.

Various Features Of Sash Windows

Sash Window Styles

The main styles of the sash window are Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian.

Georgian sash windows possess a six over six pattern. This derives from the Georgian era where only small glazed panes were produced, ensuring noticeable symmetry throughout the design.

In contrast, Victorian windows have a two-over-two design. Windows from this era are defined by luxury and accessories like sash horns to firm up the joints of the window frame and support bigger glass panels.

Whereas, Edwardian windows consist of a six over two pattern. Which combines features from both Georgian and Victorian windows. Sash horns are also used for this design to support enormous glass panes that let in a lot of light.

Sash Window Frames

Three main types of sash window frames are commonly used such as wood, uPVC and aluminium.

Wood or timber window frames are aesthetically-pleasing and natural. They are the perfect choice for sash windows in a period property. The only issue is wooden windows need regular maintenance to ensure they stay in good condition and last for extended periods.

Meanwhile, Upvc is a durable and cost-effective material. Unlike wooden windows, it does not require a lot of maintenance to remain in great condition. However, the limitation of this frame is that it lacks a traditional appearance, making it unsuitable for period properties.

Aluminium, on the other hand, is usually used for modern sash window designs. Aluminium is highly durable and strong which allows it to support massive panels of glass. It is extremely resistant to adverse weather conditions too. Aluminium frames will not bend and twist like wooden frames.

On a less positive note, due to the modern materials used to make aluminium it may not be suitable for traditional homes.

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The Benefits Of Wooden Windows

Wooden windows are a stylish and aesthetic choice for homeowners. There are a variety of styles you can choose from, which can enhance the design features of your exterior. Apart from improving the appearance of your home, here are some other outstanding benefits to consider.

Why Install Wooden Windows

Cheap and Long-Lasting

Unlike other materials, wooden windows tend to be a lot cheaper to install. Plus, due to being able to last a long time, you will not need to invest in maintenance. Therefore, you will spend less money overall. Wooden sash windows are an excellent choice for any home.

Superb Insulation

Wooden windows are one of the best options for keeping your home warm and cosy during cold weather. They are much better in this regard than steel or vinyl windows which won™t preserve as much heat.

To further improve insulation you can install double-paned glass which will prevent any air leakage.

Highly Durable

It doesn™t matter if it™s heavy, rain, snow, frost or blistering heat, wooden windows are incredibly durable. In contrast to metal windows, they have the ability to expand and contract during various temperature fluctuations.

Hence, wood sash windows are designed to withstand a large array of weather circumstances and avoid any seal failures between the window and glass panes. The less air that gets into your home the less you will rely on indoor heating and the less your energy bill will cost.

Additionally, wood windows are unlikely to crack due to being tightly sealed unlike alternate windows such as vinyl.

Not Difficult To Maintain

High-quality wooden windows have long-lasting sealants that can easily be maintained by being occasionally cleaned with a soft cloth and a bit of liquid soap. In other words, as long as you keep your windows clean there will be no need to invest in resealing or replacing your windows altogether.

Environmentally-Friendly

Wooden windows create a smaller carbon footprint than other materials which need a greater amount of energy to form. Not to mention, wood is incredibly sustainable which makes it a much greener choice than the likes of plastic, steel or aluminium.

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The Benefits Of Window Replacement

The Benefits Of Window Replacement

Window replacement is one of the best ways to improve the comfort, warmth and enjoyment of your home. Here is why you should consider window replacement if your windows are old and past their best.

Why You Should Consider Window Replacement

Easier To Maintain

Replacing your windows with newer, more modern designs will allow you to focus less on repairs and other sustainability strategies. Contemporary windows tend to be less challenging to clean, less easy to break and are made from stronger materials. Not to mention, other innovative features such as between-the-glass blinds that can reduce the amount of dust in your home.

Make Your Home Safer

Window replacement with laminated glass can improve safety against burglars which is harder to break. Whereas, tempered glass reduces the chances of injury when glass is accidentally broken, due to being designed to break into small chunks rather than thousands of tiny jagged shards that can cut you.

Increase The Value Of Your Home

Window replacement projects can vastly increase the value of your home according to property research. Whenever you purchase new windows you want to improve the aesthetics and comfort of your home by taking into account style, function and protection from tough weather conditions.

Thanks to modern technology, there are now windows that allow you to feel warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. If you are planning to sell your property in the future, this could be a key selling point to potential buyers.

Reduce Energy Costs

Replacing your windows can help you cut down on energy bills. By installing new, high-tech windows you don™t need to blast the central heating system during the cold, winter months or overuse your air-conditioning when it gets hot and humid in the summer. Modern windows are fantastic for enhancing the comfort of your home without any extra costs.

Protection From UV Light


Despite UV light being important for natural light in your home, an excessive amount can damage the interior elements of your home such as walls, floors and various other types of furnishings. Window replacement ensures you maintain the beauty of your home inside as well as outside.

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How Do Sash Windows Work

Sash Window Operation Instructions

Sash windows are vertically opening windows that consist of two framed window sashes, one positioned in front of the other. This style of window unit sits in frames with vertical grooves, which allow them to move up and down smoothly. The up and down movement is assisted by counterbalances which are weights on cords and pulleys.

When closed, the top and bottom sash will be locked together at the midrail to prevent them sliding. There may be handles attached to the sashes to help you open them, depending on the window design.

The window can be opened by sliding the bottom sash upwards or, if you have a double hung window, by sliding the top sash downwards.

Sash windows can be fitted with complex hinge systems that allow the window to be locked on one side while the counterbalance on the other side can be detached. This is a helpful feature that can allow the window to be opened to let fresh air into your home, to get out, or to clean.

The design of sash windows also have benefits such as:

  • They look good: they follow a smart aesthetic and increase the value of the building.
  • Sash windows are safe & secure: only one panel can open at a time meaning that they are a lot more difficult to break into than cement windows. It is also easy to have additional features added for safety precautions such as locks and child safety devices.
  • Low maintenance: modern sash windows have a very low risk of warping and rotting as they are made of metal and plastic. You don™t need to sand them or apply coats of varnish either. More traditional sash windows are made from wood, but with appropriate care and maintenance they will have a long life.
  • Environmentally friendly: timber-framed windows are environmentally friendly as it uses the lowest amount of energy in its processing, production and transport. It also has a very long life-span meaning it won™t have to be replaced as regularly as other windows.
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Wooden Windows in London

Wooden Windows in London

Traditional style with a modern twist.

The beauty of wooden windows is their versatility; they work to the style of your home. You might be looking for a rural and rustic countryside exterior to your home or perhaps you have chosen to give your wooden windows a lick of paint to make them work with your interior décor, offering a complementary accent colour to your room. Either way this kind of window installation and design gives you options to make it your home, unique and bespoke to you and practically is an incredibly smart way to style your home and get long lasting windows fitted.

Not enough to convince you?

Here™s why wooden windows might be the right choice for you and your home:

Energy Efficient

Consider this¦ Your new windows could actually end up saving you money. Wooden windows insulate your home to a staggeringly higher rate than steel or aluminium frames might. Your home can stay much warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer so you don™t need to sped a fortune on heating and air conditioning bills.

Environmentally Friendly

This material does not need to end up on the landfill like most other materials. Biodegradable, this renewable source is a kinder way to give back to the earth. Unlike other, metallic materials, wood is life lasting and so with the right care is a real investment for your home, additionally adding value to your property, great if you decide to sell.

Easy to Maintain

The sustainability of wooden windows means they are a breeze to keep in good condition. The outer frames are resistant against all weathers while the inner frames are protected indoors. Robust, easy to clean and straightforward to install these are a great option for any home.

 

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10 Things you need to know about timber windows

Wooden windows have been a popular architectural feature in the majority of residential buildings. Until the apparition of PVC frames, most residential windows were made out of wood. In an age where environmental concerns play a huge role in the choice of your structure material, it™s important to understand what makes timber windows unique and special. Indeed, nowadays, having a wooden frame to your window is a deliberate choice. Here are the ten things you should know about timber windows and why they matter.

#1. They are energy-friendly

The common perception of wooden windows is that they can be an environmental burden. However, contrary to common belief, timber windows are in fact environmentally-friendlier to make than their PVC cousins. Building a wooden sash window, for instance, can consume up to eight times less energy than more modern models. For anybody worried about their carbon footprint, it™s essential to know that wooden frames don™t increase the risk of deforestation. It™s the opposite due to their durability.

#2. They are more durable

Wooden windows can last for over a century. Some historic sash windows have been around for over 300 years in London only! Nowadays, most wooden window manufacturers provide a warranty of up to 50 years with each frame. Of course, the durability of the product is strongly influenced by your care routine. But a well maintained and repaired timber frame can last several generations, which, to come back to the deforestation threats, gives plenty of time for the next trees to grow.

#3. They were first invented in the 16th century

The first apparition of sash wooden windows in Europe dates back to the 16th century. They were initially developed with a horizontal opening with traveling panels. However, European designers have been using vertical openings and boring holes into the frame to create the wooden sash as we know it for over 300 years. The oldest sash wooden windows in London have been installed at the Home House in 1670 and are proof that careful repairs and refurbishing can do wonders to the structure.

#4. They are energy-efficient

Your wooden windows can be fitted with double-glazing glass, making them just as energy-efficient as any modern PVC or aluminium structure.

#5. Fashionable glass was added in the 19th century

Wooden windows don™t have to be boring. In fact, in the 19th century, coloured glass and gothic style arches were brought to renew the traditional wooden structure. You can come across plenty of historic buildings in London where the typical wooden windows have been enhanced with stylish additions. The bottom line is that there™s more to timber windows than just a frame. The possibilities are virtually endless!

#6. The Great Fire of London influenced their design

The first windows didn™t have any frame or glass. They developed over time until the Great Fire of 1666 that dramatically transformed the wooden windows as we knew them. Indeed, the 1667 London Building Act stated that every window should have a window sill, which encouraged the creation of the sash wooden windows. Additionally, the building requirements that needed windows to be 4 inches deep or more helped sash wooden frames to gain in popularity.

#7. It™s iconic of Britain™s window designs

There™s nothing more popular in the UK than sash wooden windows. The design is so iconic of British home design that most tourists are surprised to discover other styles on their first visit.

#8. They might be French

Where do the sash wooden windows come from? Nobody knows where the influential wooden window frame design first appeared. However, it is believed that our popular British windows might be initially French. Indeed, sash seems to refer to œchâssis the French word for the typical wooden frame.

#9. In old Victorian London, they were made out of softwood

In Victorian architecture, homeowners traditionally used softwood for their wooden windows. The preferred material used to be Pitch Pine, which is a little less durable than oak. Pinewood was the soft and affordable alternative to hardwood frames. Only wealthy families would order oak wooden windows. Today™s wooden windows are typically hardwood based, for style and durability.

#10. The Edwardian period saw ceiling-high windows

If you™ve come across residences with ceiling-high wooden windows, chances are that these are high sash wooden frames. Indeed, during the Edwardian period, ceiling-high windows became a fashionable design to maximise natural light and enhance the facade. Some windows also included coloured glass to create dramatic displays during the daytime.

Wooden windows have a long history that is tightly linked to the evolution of our design aspirations and structure regulations and needs. If you are considering repairing your wooden frames, don™t hesitate to get in touch with our specialists to discuss your requirements.

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Find Out How We Repair Any Sash Window In The Greater London Area And With Spectacular Results

London sash windows

Mortice and green sash window repair company in London

Lots of sash repair companies are very particular about the types of work they will and will not complete. Moreover, many of these entities are only capable of handling very minor jobs in-house. When you work with these companies, various portions of your repair or restoration project are likely to be outsourced. This is not true, however, with Mortice & Green. We repair any sash window in the greater London area and always with truly spectacular results.

If asked to name the actual source of our superior workmanship and commitment to quality, we’d have to say that it’s simply the result of being passionate about what we do. We have an extensive amount of experience in this niche and we don’t just order and install windows, we build quality sashes from the ground up. In fact, working with sashes is absolutely all that we do and we are proud to be able to handle the entirety of all our jobs right in-house. Whether we’re working directly on your property or withing our fully-equipped workshop, just outside of London, we will give your job the full attention that it needs and deserves. This allows us to provide the highest level of quality control even as we offer some of the most competitive pricing within our niche.

We go beyond simply dealing with sticking sashes and sashes that have broken cords. Of course, we definitely have a lot of experience in dealing with relatively minor issues like these, but we are also the company that you want to call when you’ve identified severe instances of wood rot, condensation at the interior of your windows, major draughts, and other issues. Our technicians will handle every window on an individual basis so that each repair is as cost-effective and efficient as it can possible be.

Wood rot is an unfortunately common problem among dated sash windows. Rather than being attributed to any shortcomings within this actual type of window design, however, this is the result of insufficient maintenance and care. Largely compromised all natural wood, these windows have to be stained, treated and painted on a routine basis. This is the only way to keep the majority of these structures duly protected from the elements. When homeowners are lax in this particular area of property maintenance, their sashes can develop problems that quickly spiral out of control.

Among some of the secondary issues that are likely to be present in severe instances of wood rot are mold and mildew. The good news is that our history in dealing with problems like these has allowed us to easily determine when certain aspects of these structures should and should not be kept. We have also developed a special technique throughout the years of carefully preserving the components that are salvageable, while rebuilding damaged areas entirely. This way, those who own historic homes can get results that are absolutely in line with the original designs of their abodes. This is often vital for preserving both the integrity and the authenticity of these units. When our work is done, you will not be able to tell that new windows have been put in at all. Our love of these products means that we are incredibly familiar with the different incarnations of sashes that were used throughout the ages. Best of all, we will carefully restore and preserve your original hardware so that your new sashes look just like the original ones did when the property was originally built.

One of the best reasons for working with Mortice And Green is our longstanding commitment to standing behind the work we perform. This is especially beneficial when investing in double glazed sash designs. These windows possess all of the beauty and intrigue of more dated sash styles, while boasting modern efficiency. When systems like these fail, homeowners can have a hard time getting their original installers perform warranty repairs. This, however, is simply not true with us. We work hard to make sure that our sashes are always installed properly the first time. If any problems are ever reported, we’ll make a timely appointment to address these issues so that our clients are assured of getting lasting value from their investments.

When it comes to addressing broken sash cords, we recommend that homeowners take care of these problems right away. Even though this may seem like a relatively minor problem, especially if a remaining cord is making it possible to continue using these structures, a broken sash cord can actually be a very dangerous issue indeed. You do not want this window to be in an opened positioned when the final cord gives way. If this happens, the heavy sash can come crashing down and it will surely smash anything that lies beneath it. We can provide timely and affordable solutions for repairing these counterbalanced systems. When we’re done, your windows will slide smoothly and seamlessly opened and closed and all household residents can continue enjoying the highest levels of safety and security.

There are some window problems that can rear their heads even when all of the sash components are in place and appear to be working fine. For instance, you may be noticing a considerable rise in your energy spending, even though your life habits have not changed dramatically. This could be the case if your sashes are letting cold drafts blow in during the winter months, or if these structures are letting cool air seep out of the home when closed, and when your air conditioner is on.

Mortice And Green is known for installing one of the most efficient draught proofing systems available. With this system in place, you won’t have to rely on your home heating and cooling equipment as much. This means that your HVAC system will suffer far less wear and tear and can even enjoy a significantly extended lifespan. Moreover, you will be able to pay a lot less each month when your energy bill arrives and can pride yourself in maintaining a very modest carbon footprint. In fact, our draught proofing system won’t just reduce your energy spending and use, it can also play a very important role in noise control by effectively muting noise pollution from the outside area. Best of all, this system will provide further benefits by blocking the ingress of airborne particles like dust, dirt and dander, so that household residents can breather a bit easier and enjoy a significantly higher indoor air quality.

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Sliding Sash Windows Come With Many Benefits

If you are thinking about installing new sash windows in your London home, it may or may not be a good idea. For example, when you already have sliding sash windows, you may want to keep them for several reasons. In fact, this window type has many benefits, and here is a closer look at them, what they are, and why you may wish to keep them.

A sash window usually refers to a unit that opens by moving one of the sashes, usually in a vertical direction. However, some are designed to move horizontally. Many homes in the UK have this kind of window design.

Some of the oldest examples of the sash window date back to the late Seventeenth Century in England, and it is believed that the style was invented by Robert Hooke. You’ll often see the sash or panel window design in Victorian style and Georgian style homes. Many of them contain a total of six sashes in three panels.

ddf689f9ea290f695895907b2d9ce4ddAll sash window designs will either be balanced by springs or counter weights to allow for smooth operation for opening and closing. A special chain or cord is usually connected to the sashes and runs over a pulley. However, in some cases, springs are used inside the window frame. Most frames are made from wood and they contain panels with single panes of glass.

The sliding sash window provides several benefits. For example, to clean the outside bottom glass, one only needs to open up the window. Cleaning the top panes is also simple, as all one has to do is pull down on the top window frame. This is an important feature to have if your house is more than one story high, as you will

not need to get up on a ladder just to clean the glass. This can save a lot of time, trouble, hard work, and possible injury from falls.

Sliding sash windows makes cooling the house easier also. For example, if you open both the top and bottom section of the window part way, you can draw in cool air from the bottom and expel warm air through the top part. This provides efficient air circulation.

The sash window also makes it easy to ventilate the home in rainy weather. For instance, you can open one window a small amount. This will let in fresh air while keeping out the rain. Also, these windows are designed to last for many years when properly maintained. Plus, many older homes have this window type and if you are interested in keeping your home in its original condition, it is best to keep the same window design.

There is no need to replace all your wooden windows if you are restoring an older house. In fact, you should consider restoring and repairing the old units instead. When you contact a professional window company, they can handle all of the restoration and make each window look like new. Yet, they will still maintain their original look.

Nothing is perfect and a sash window does have a few downsides to consider. For example, they do need occasional maintenance and upkeep. Also the wood is exposed to the weather frequently so rotting or swelling is possible if not cleaned and painted regularly. Plus, when they become worn they may begin to rattle or leak air. However, a good window renovation service can take care of problems like these. They can seal and repair your windows and this will give you a more comfortable home interior.

Today, many homeowners are replacing there existing windows for modern double glazed wooden windows purely for the investment potential. For example, it may increase the home value and this could give you a higher selling price in the future. Also, there is the possibility of energy savings over a period of time. Yet, there is much to be said for restoration, and with the right sash window restoration service, your old timber windows can give you all of the benefits of new wood windows while keeping your house’s original look. The top window companies offer free consultations and inspections and they will visit your home and talk to you about all the possibilities available without trying to hard sell you replacement windows. You will receive a detailed estimate for the work and a guarantee on the workmanship.

For all your sash window repair and renovation requirements in London why not give us a call today?Mortice & Green – We repair, we refurbish, we renovate and we replace sash windows throughout all London areas including Surrey, Middlesex, Twickenham and Richmond!

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