South London's Love of Sash Windows is Older Than You Think

South London’s Love of Sash Windows is Older Than You Think

Looking for sash window repair in South London? Read on to find out more.

With a history stretching back over 2000 years and many generations of cultural influence, London has seen its fair share of architectural developments over the centuries. From the Romans to the Stuarts, Victorian innovations to Georgian ornamentation, the city™s architecture is simply brimming with history.

But did you know that London also saw some of the earliest examples of sash windows? In this article, we™ll be exploring how sash windows have remained popular in the South London area for over three hundred years and why their popularity continues to this day.

Early Sash Windows

While the original inventor of the sash window is broadly disputed, some credit the design to English scientist Robert Hooke who lived and worked in London for the majority of his life.

In the 1670s, South London™s Ham House saw some of the UK™s first sash windows installed. Borrowing from earlier French designs, Ham House™s sash windows were operated with the use of weights and pulleys. Over the following century, the design caught on more broadly and many examples, including those of Ham House, still survive to this day.

That being said, although an incredible innovation for their time, these older sash windows had some notable flaws leading to the need for South London sash window repair and maintenance.

A Classic Design Meets Modern Materials

Wooden window frames always had their fair share of problems. Changes in temperature cause the wood to expand and contract which can distort the frame and even damage the glass in extreme cases. Plus, the damp weather can also lead to rot which, if left untreated, can spread throughout the building, causing further damage.

Of course, these days we have solutions to these problems. Draught proofing and maintenance can go a long way towards mitigating the problem while, in some cases, people choose to replace their old wooden frames with uPVC or vinyl ones.

That being said, this is very much a case-by-case basis as some windows are more susceptible than others. Furthermore, there are many restrictions in place about the correct repair and maintenance of sash windows in listed buildings.

South London Sash Window Repair

Here at Mortice and Green, we™re proud to offer high-quality South London sash window repair and replacement services. Our skilled team knows everything there is to know about sash windows, combining traditional and modern knowledge for the very best result. 

If you™re looking for outstanding South London sash window repair, then get in touch today by contacting us at 020 7118 9191 or by emailing morticeandgreen@mail.com.

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4 Tips For Keeping Your Old Sash Windows in Good Condition

4 Tips For Keeping Your Old Sash Windows in Good Condition

Here at Mortice and Green, we provide expert sash window restoration in Wimbledon. Over our decades of experience, we™ve seen how, with the right treatment, old sash windows can continue to function in perfect condition for many years before needing restoration.

Today, we™ll be sharing our top 4 tips for looking after your sash windows and what to do if you want to keep them in perfect condition.

1. Regulate Your Indoor Temperature

Did you know that your house™s indoor temperature can influence the long-term durability of your windows?

Many old sash windows were built with wooden frames which expand and contract along with changes in temperature. While they can withstand a lot in terms of seasonal temperature change, sooner or later, problems can build up.

Although there™s nothing you can do to control the weather outside, your indoor heating habits may have a significant effect. Try to maintain a consistent temperature inside your house – especially throughout the extremes of the year. This will help to prevent expansion/contraction, minimising any damage that may occur.

2. Keep an Eye Out For Mould/Damp

Another important reason to keep your house well-heated throughout the winter months is in order to avoid mould/dampness. As the name suggests, damp can build up as moisture gets into the house. That moisture will evaporate before condensing on the cool glass of the window, causing the water to pool on the sill and ultimately encouraging mould.

If you see mould and damp building up around your window then you should take immediate steps to rectify the situation. The best thing to do is to keep your house well-heated and well-ventilated as well as regularly wiping down your windows. If mould appears to be a recurring problem, you might also consider using anti-mould paint.

3. Fix Any Peeling Paint

Speaking of paint, if you see the paint around your window beginning to peel then it™s good to repaint as soon as possible. Paint seals the wood, minimising the aforementioned temperature problems and helping to keep your windows in good long-term condition.

4. Hire a Professional

Last but certainly not least, if you™re experiencing any serious issues with your windows, don™t hesitate to hire Wimbledon sash window restoration. After all, these issues have a tendency to build up over time, so the sooner you attend to the problem, the smaller the issue will be.

Sash Window Restoration in Wimbledon

Are you looking for the best in Wimbledon sash window restoration? If so then contact us today at 020 7118 9191 or head on over to our website.

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Nine Questions And Answers About Sash Windows

Nine Questions And Answers About Sash Windows

In the ever-changing climate of the UK, where sunny spells can swiftly turn to biting wind and rain, windows play a pivotal role in our daily lives. 

Replacing old windows with new double-glazed sash windows might seem straightforward, but the wide range of options available can make it a complex journey. At Mortice and Green, we pride ourselves on simplifying the process for our customers. 

Here, we answer ten crucial questions about sash windows to help you make an informed decision if you are thinking about upgrading your sash windows.

What Is Double Glazing?

Double glazing, as the name might suggest, involves two panes of glass separated by a gap filled with insulating gases like argon or krypton. This is a highly effective method for reducing heat loss, hence the popularity in the UK.

What™s Wrong With Single-Glazed Sash Windows?

Back when sash windows were first popular, the technology for double glazing didn™t exist. So, many original sash windows feature only single pane glass. Single-pane windows do serve their purpose, but there are downsides. 

Inefficient single glazing can lead to energy loss, making it challenging to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Noise pollution is another concern, impacting your well-being. Additionally, improper insulation can result in dampness, condensation and cold spots in your home.

Do I Need Planning Permission for Double Glazing?

In most cases, installing double or triple glazing doesn’t require special planning permission. However, listed buildings and conservation areas pose some special challenges. Listed buildings may have restrictions, sometimes allowing only like-for-like replacements, so it is worth doing some investigation before you book in the work.

What Is Triple Glazing?

Triple glazing follows the same principles as double glazing but incorporates three panes of glass instead of two. This offers even better energy efficiency and noise reduction, but comes at a higher cost.

Is Triple Glazing Better Than Double Glazing?

Triple glazing offers better noise reduction and insulation, making it a great choice if it fits in your budget. However, double-glazing is also a worthy upgrade from single-glazing, if this option fits better in your budget.

Should I Choose Triple Glazing or Double Glazing?

Choosing between triple and double glazing depends on your location, needs and budget. Noise-prone areas may benefit from triple glazing, but in some areas conservation restrictions might limit your options, making double glazing more suitable.

What Frame Options Are Available?

You have a range of sash window frame options, including timber and uPVC.

Timber: Offers a natural appearance, good insulation and durability and eco-friendliness. Ideal for listed buildings, timber frames come in various hardwoods, factory sprayed with micro-porous paint and certified by The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

uPVC: Known for easy maintenance, longevity, excellent insulation, versatility and cost-effectiveness. uPVC can mimic the appearance of timber windows, providing aesthetic flexibility.

How Much Money Can I Save with Double or Triple Glazing?

Energy-efficient sash windows, according to the Energy Saving Trust, offer significant savings on energy bills. The amount depends on the energy rating and type of property.

What Questions Do You Have?

We’ve answered eight of the nine key questions, leaving room for your queries!
If you’re contemplating double or triple glazing your sash windows, we welcome your questions. Feel free to get in touch if you would like to pick our brains.

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Quick Fire Facts About Sash Windows

Quick Fire Facts About Sash Windows

Sash windows are a common sight on period properties around the UK. These windows are made up of 2 sliding panels (or sashes), that slide up and down. The panels are held in frames and are moved up and down using a pulley system.

How Did Sash Windows Begin?

We have seen evidence of sash windows dating as far back as the 17th century, although no one is quite sure exactly when and where they were first created.

The oldest living examples exist in England, dating as far back as 1670. Some people believe Robert Hooke, an architect, is the inventor of sash windows. It is thought that he came up with the sash window design when rebuilding the City of London after the Great Fire of 1666. Other evidence suggests that sash windows might be a Dutch invention. We might never be sure!

Why Are Sash Windows Such Different Sizes?

Walking around London you will see sash windows of all sizes. You might notice that the first and second floor have huge windows, whilst the top floor windows are less than half the size. This is because, in Georgian Times, it was custom to have the owners living in the bottom half of the house and the staff in the top half. The owners would benefit from huge windows that created a sense of space in the rooms, whilst the staff weren™t treated to this decadence. 

If you look even closer you might notice many period properties in London have windows that have been bricked up. Between 1696 to 1851 there was a window tax levied on homeowners, the more windows a home had the richer the owner was believed to be, and so the more tax they were made to pay. To avoid this, many homeowners bricked in unnecessary windows.

Why Do Different Windows Have Different Pains Of Glass?

Sash windows have been popular in British homes for a large period of time. However, they have undergone many style and design changes as each era has gone by. If you are looking to renovate your sash windows, it is important to match the right style to the age of your property. 

A sliding sash, with six smaller panes of glass per sash, held in place by thin glazing bars, is conventional for Georgian properties. 

The Victorian-style sash window features a centre bar, with two larger panes of glass on either side.

In an Edwardian home we see six smaller panes in the top sash and two larger panes in the bottom sash. 

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Thinking Of Getting Rid Of Your Old Sash Windows? Here’s Why You Should Think Again

Here at Mortice and Green, it should come as no surprise that we love sash windows. Not only do they have a beautiful, old-fashioned charm, but they™re also a gorgeously elegant design. That being said, in recent years, many people have been considering getting rid of their old sash windows and replacing them with more modern window designs.

But sash window replacement doesn™t have to mean going for something completely new. In this article, we™ll be talking about your options for sash window replacement and how you can combine modern and traditional window design to have the best of both worlds.

Modern Materials

One of the major downsides to old sash windows – and the reason so many are opting for sash window replacement – is the materials they were made of. Put simply, old sash windows tend to use single glazed glass in a wood panel frame.

When they originally caught on, it™s worth saying that this was a highly durable and long-lasting design, but by modern standards these materials are quite lacking. Not only is single glazed glass far more fragile and terrible for insulation, but the wood panel frames expand and contract as the weather changes, slowly cracking the paintwork and making the mechanism stiff.

Sash Window Replacement

With all that in mind, it makes sense that people would want to replace their old sash windows with modern UPVC, double glazed windows. Unfortunately, some people are choosing to throw the baby out with the bathwater and this, we think, is a real shame.

While sash windows certainly aren™t as common today as they used to be, they are nonetheless a perfectly viable choice and, using modern materials, are just as sturdy and resistant to weather changes as any other type of window. Furthermore they have an iconic paneled style that™s recognisable even at a glance.

As a side note, it™s also worth adding that not all old sash windows need replacing. Even if your sash window is badly damaged, repairs and modifications can be made to help preserve the original frame if that™s what you™d prefer.

The Real Benefits Of Modern Sash Windows

In terms of practicality, modern sash windows are just as viable as any other modern window design, but their real benefit comes from their gorgeous traditional style. If you want windows that will compliment and preserve the gorgeous architectural heritage of your building then you need high quality sash window replacements.

For more information about high quality sash window replacements and repairs, contact us today at 020 7118 9191 or fill out the email form on our website.

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Wooden sash window

All you need to know about Box Sash Windows

There isn™t just one type of window you can have in the home; there are many. One of the most popular options are sash windows, which have always fared well with homeowners for their general ease of installation and maintenance, and their all-around performance. On this page, we™re going to take a closer look at what exactly sash windows are and what™s good about them. By the time you™ve finished reading, you might just decide that this is the type of window that you want in your home.

 

What is it?

 

Sash windows might sound a little complicated, but they™re not really. They™re just confusing because the meaning isn’t instantly understood by the name. A sash window is just a window that has two frames. They™re divided in the middle, so you can open one without opening the other — the window could be half-open. They™ve actually been around for centuries; they were invented back in the 17th century in England, but they™ve come a long way since then. Modern sash windows can add a lot of character and performance to a home.

 

What™s good about it?

 

If you think that a window is just a window, then, well, you need to think again — this is positively not the case. There™s a reason why sash windows have stuck around for centuries, and continue to fare well: there™s plenty to love about them. They let more air in, for starters, which promotes better airflow in your home. You get to choose how much the window is open, too, so you can get let in as much air as you like. That™ll help to keep you cool in summer, but sash windows are also great during the winter too. They can be fitted with double glazed windows, which will help to retain warm air in your home. The other good points about sash windows are that they™re really easy to install and they™re highly-durable, so you can rest easy that you won™t need to think about your windows again once you™ve got them in your home.

 

Different types

 

Sash windows are also pretty versatile too. This is because there are so many variations to choose from — this has stemmed from their popularity. Since so many people wanted them, inventors have gotten creative and put their own spin on the classic. The most common type of sash window will be double hung, though certain house types — such as Victorian and Georgian homes — use different styles.

 

How to stay on top of maintenance

 

If you™re going to invest in sash windows London, then you™ll want to ensure that they look as good in the future as they do on the first day of installation. The good news is that this is not so difficult! Sash windows only require a little bit of maintenance. It can be as little as a lick of paint, though things can always become damaged during heavy storms, at which point the windows will have to be professionally repaired by an expert.

 

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What Double Glazed Sash Windows Are And Why They Are So Amazing

A lot of consumers are well-familiar with the value, beautify and all-around benefits of sash window designs. These products have been making waves throughout the architectural and construction industries for many centuries. The first sash window is believed to have been installed in 1670 and these options have been around in different incarnations ever since. Sash windows that feature double glazing technologies represent the latest innovations in these amazing products. They are the perfect blend of old, architectural ingenuity and recent advancements in energy-efficient design. If you have been wondering why double glazed sash windows are so good, keep reading to find out.

Sashes themselves are among some of the most energy efficient designs available. In fact, rather than being the result of any new or recent technological or construction advancements, this is a feature that is simple inherent of this popular window style. This is because the best of these designs are comprised of high-quality hardwood, which is an excellent, naturally insulating choice for the construction of window frames. Wood is a very poor conductor of heat and thus, it is great for assisting in the creation and the maintenance of ambient temperatures indoors.

There are other factors that help make sash window styles a tremendous boon for homeowners when it comes to lowering their carbon footprints and their regular energy costs. For instance, these units provide some of the best ventilation among all window styles. It is only necessary to open them a very small amount in order to generate a comfortable cross-breeze. This increased air flow can have a very positive impact on the quality of the indoor air by helping push contaminants and stale air out, while allowing fresh and far more more healthy air to flow in. For homes that regularly have a stagnant and musty smell and feel, the addition of these window styles can be a very good idea.

People are also impressed by the fact that windows such as these can actually be locked into a fixed position, while they remain open. This is not something that even the latest options in aluminium and vinyl windows are capable of boasting. This results in far higher overall levels of home security, even for homeowners who regularly enjoy falling asleep with their windows open. People cannot gain unauthorized access to homes with locking sashes. In fact, even if a single pane breaks out, the glazing bars and the restrictions of a diminutive opening will still keep intruders out. This is true with all sash windows, even more dated, single-pane designs.

Double glazing technologies have recently taken the world by storm. While sash windows are efficient all on their own, the advent of this new window manufacturing technique has definitely increased their capabilities in this particular area. Double glazing features the use of two separate panes of glass within each, individual glazing section. Moreover, rather than having these panes positioned absolutely flush with one another, they are instead installed with a significant amount of space between them. Furthermore, argon gas is then pumped into and sealed within this space to create a very formidable barrier between the actual living environment and the outside elements.

People who upgrade to double glazed window designs in any living environment can automatically experience a rapid and remarkable decrease in their ongoing energy costs. These options are much more efficient when they are additionally paired with sash window design. For people who are concerned with controlling their carbon footprints, upgrading to these options is definitely the right decision. In fact, products like these provide benefits to the natural environment from the very construction process all the way throughout their lifespans. Moreover, they are long-lasting and guaranteed to provide impressive returns on investments.

There are a number of consumers who have invested in historic homes. In their efforts to remain true to the authentic and original architecture of their abodes, these individuals want to restore the existing sash windows. Opting to have these upgraded instead by infusing them with double glazing, however, can be infinitely more beneficial. With these enhancement, property owners will get the stunning aesthetics of conventional sashes as well as the advanced efficiency of modern window technologies. In fact, they can even opt to have additional features included in these purchases such as the use of advanced UV coatings. These coatings keep harmful UV rays out of homes and off of building residents, even as they keep indoor decor from fading due to sun exposure.

When assessing the benefits of products like these it is definitely worthwhile to consider the impact that they will invariably have on property values. For owners of historic properties, these make it possible to both build sweat equity and retain the existing monetary value that is the result of historic appeal. In all homes, these options provide the best increases in overall marketability, given that they feature both the old and the new. This means that it will be easier to sell your home in the future, if you should ever decide to part with it, and you can additionally increase your sales price when doing so. Given that these options are built to last, you can rest assured that you will recoup your investments on this improvement and then some.

Consumers who align themselves with reputable sash window manufacturers can gain a variety of additional advantages as well. For instance, the can rest assured that all of the materials for their job have been sourced sustainable. Moreover, the very best of these businesses are committed to making sure that absolutely every aspect of this process is handled by their own, in-house teams. This allows for excellent levels of quality control from start to finish. This is rarely true for double glazed windows that are made from other materials and in other window styles. With these lesser options, a vast majority of the work is handled by third-party companies and quality control suffers as the result. Businesses that specialize in sash windows are absolutely passionate about what they do. As such, they are known to consistently produce truly superior products that are the perfect representation of both the old and the new.

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Tips On Choosing The Right Company To Handle Your Sash Window Repairs

Despite having a reputation for being extremely durable, sash windows are also vulnerable in a variety of ways. Their weighted pulley systems can break down on either side or individual glazing sections can get broken out. There are times when sash windows get stuck and instances when severe wood rood rears its head. If you need to have sash window repairs performed, then you should start by finding out how to identify the best professionals for the job.

One large part of knowing how to choose a good sash window repair company in London is understanding the nature and nuances of your job. The more involved that this project is, the more skillful you want your providers to be. In some instances, the entire window will need to be taken out and rebuilt. This is often the case for windows that are several decades old and that have succumbed to the ravages of moisture damage. If you have recently purchased existing construction and own a historical home of the Georgian, Victorian or Edwardian variety, you may need a full on sash window restoration as opposed to a limited repair.

In instances like these, the absolute best companies to work with are those that specialize in the design and manufacture of brand new sashes. This is because whenever the basic framing materials for these windows has been compromised by moisture, termites or other pests or elements, the window must be rebuilt from start to finish. A company that is only adept in performing minor maintenance and repairs will not have the supplier relationships, equipment or know-how for tackling a job of this magnitude.

Another important thing to consider when you hire your provider is whether or not this entity is committed to helping you preserve the historical value and authenticity of your property and these building features specifically. In instances in which sash windows must restored or rebuilt entirely, companies that are truly passionate about what they do will go out of their way to make sure that as many salvageable elements that can be retained will be preserved. This way, once the work is complete, the unit will look like it once did, when it was initially installed, and it will still have all of its original hardware and other elements.

When implementing repairs you might want to take the opportunity to upgrade to entirely new type of window style. For instance, sashes are now no longer featuring weights and pulley systems. Instead, many companies are installing these units with a combination of pulleys and springs. This makes them safer, longer lasting and much less likely to come crashing down as the system starts to show any significant wear and tear. A lot of homeowners are looking to make this transition given the increased level of durability and reliability that these upgrades are meant to supply.

It is now possible for people to get sash window designs that have double glazing technologies. If you are having your old sash windows rebuilt, this is definitely an upgrade that you need to consider. With a double glazed window, you will get a significantly higher level of overall energy efficiency. Rather than having a historically accurate, single-pane unit, this structure will be comprised of two, individual panes of glass that have argon gas within the space between them. This creates a very formidable barrier between the building interior and all that lies outside. Upgrading to double glazing sash designs is one of the best ways to instantly enhance the all-around efficiency of these structures while dramatically reducing your energy costs.

If this is an upgrade that you are interested in making, take the time to look for a seasoned sash window company that has additionally remained abreast of all the many changes that have recently been made within this niche. Although you want your provider to be well-versed in the different aspects of traditional sash window development, you also want the ability to take advantage of some of the more recent features, functions, glass technologies, and other advancements.

Transparency is a vital factor to look for when shopping for a company to work with. A prospective provider that is worth pursuing will offer clear and easy to understand estimates. This estimate should include a detailed breakdown of all of the necessary costs for materials along with the costs for all labor provided. Moreover, a good estimate will additionally describe any special guarantees or support that the company will be providing upon taking the job. This way, all customers will be able to develop realistic expectations concerning the outcome of these projects and can have a clear understanding of exactly where their monies are going.

In addition to transparency, you also want to hire a company that is absolutely committed to doing the entire project on its own. This is one of the major appeals of these window types. While vinyl and aluminum windows are frequently made in mass-production warehouse environments, these structures are carefully, handcrafted in company workshops. Moreover, there are very few parties involved in these jobs. Rather than outsourcing work to a number of third-parties, a quality company will have sufficient skills, equipment and talent in-house for handling the project in its entirety. This is the best way to ensure a consistently high level of quality control. When this work is passed from hand to hand, quality control is one thing that definitely suffers.

It is important to note that reputable and reliable companies are always eager to help consumers help themselves. Although the majority of sash repairs should only be completed by professionals with sufficient experience with these structures, there are certainly a number of common problems that most homeowners are capable of handling on their own. For instance, you might have one or two sashes that are sticking as the result of an accumulation of excess paint. An ethical company will not schedule a costly repair when issues such as these rear their heads. Instead, they may have helpful, online resources such as blog posts or articles that assist homeowners in completing the work on their own. In this case, a quick wipe-down with sugar soap could be enough to eliminate the problem entirely.

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Learn More About The Durability And Enduring Charm Of Sash Windows

If you want to find window styles that have been around for seemingly forever, look no further than the Ham House in England. This historic property has actually had the same sash windows for a little over three hundred years. Also referred to as sashes, these window styles are incredibly enduring. Moreover, they are also among some of the most aesthetically beautiful options that discerning consumers can have installed in their homes.

Throughout many parts of the developed world, vinyl and aluminum windows have become all the rage. They are relatively low in cost, inexpensive to install, and incredibly easy to maintain. There is no need to refinish vinyl or aluminum and there is obviously no worry of having these structures develop problems with rot. Despite this fact, they lack the beauty, structural integrity, and impressive, practical benefits of the traditional sash. More importantly, they aren’t guaranteed to last long either. Depending upon the window manufacturer and the style of vinyl or aluminum windows that’s chosen, these investments might last up to just 40 years. With a quality-made sash, however, homeowners can expect these structures to last as long as one full century. As such, when people invest in these designs, they are more than assured of getting their money back.

This is also currently one of the most sought-after styles among sophisticated and well-informed property buyers due to its history and its long-standing appeal. For this reason, opting to have new sashes installed or to simply refinish any existing sashes that you have in your home is a great way to boost both the overall value and the all-around marketability of your unit. For property owners who are looking for the right home improvement project for building sweat equity, this could definitely be it.

Although products like these have attracted attention for centuries, they have a new appeal right now in the age of environmental-consciousness. This is because consumers appreciate the way in which these products are carefully crafted rather than being mass-produced. With mass production, companies often lose sight of diligent, quality control and the ability to practice. Moreover, these entities are often far more concerned with controlling their overall production costs than they are with sourcing the basic and raw materials for their products in a way that is wholly safe and sustainable.

This is simply not so in most instances of modern, sash window production. As an environmentally-conscious consumer, you simply need to look for businesses that truly enjoy what they do. These entities often have onsite workshops that allow for them to produce absolutely everything in-house. Moreover, they usually work with a number of truly reputable companies that obtain wood and other materials from top-rated suppliers. From end to end, you will know exactly where everything is coming from.

When you get ready to consider the environmental benefits of sash window designs, it is important to take a minute to compare them to PVC options. Sashes take approximately eight times less energy to manufacture than do PVC windows. Although many consumers are worried about deforestation, working with a sash window supplier that sources its materials in a truly eco-friendly fashion is generally the best way to protect natural resources.

Buyers should consider the Ham House in London as well. Sash window designs have been around for over 300 years. In fact, the earliest known unit was made in 1670. The options at the Ham House have been in existence for a total of three hundred years. They are the best testament to how long these structures can endure when they are both well-made and well-cared for. This is why many of the best-rated manufacturers are willing to back their products for a period of five decades. The reality, however, is that a well-maintained sash will invariably last much longer. As such, most homeowners will not have to replace their windows within their own lifetimes if they are careful to choose the right companies to work with.

Another vital point to consider is that they last a lot longer as well. This is why the companies that install them are willing to issue such firm guarantees. Some companies will back their products with warranties that span a full 50 years. As incredible as this may sound, it attests to the lasting durability of these products. They are simply unlikely to complete wear down before this time, particularly when they are diligently maintained and repaired. The wood components on these doors should routinely receive touch-ups of the appropriate stain or paint for the local climate. If they ever show signs of sticking, sugar soap can be used in advance of these treatments to removed stubborn build-ups. Routine inspections will allow homeowners to identify small issues before these have the opportunity to have any significant impact on the overall integrity of the entire structure.

One of the greatest benefits that people can gain by opting to install or restore products like these is the ability to maintain the authenticity of historic architecture. If you own a historic home, no other window style is going to provide the same level of aesthetic benefits. This is especially true if your home is Georgian, Edwardian or Victorian. You cannot remove old sashes and replace these with modern window styles without losing some of the market value and appeal.

The good news is that people with historic properties can actually get the best of both worlds. With seasoned and talented installers, they can get all new sashes that have a historic, traditional look but that additionally boast some of the recent upgrades in these technologies. These structures have certainly evolved over the years and thus, they are significantly more efficient and even boast a much higher level of functioning and overall durability. This means fewer draughts and fewer problems with sticking and broken cords. While the original options were made with a counterbalanced system of cords and lead weights, many companies are using cords and springs. To take advantage of upgrades like these, simply talk with a reputable supplier about your preferences.

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Everything You Need To Know About Sash Windows

Although there are many structural features that contribute to the overall look of homes, windows are frequently referred to as the “eyes of the house”. These allow natural light to pour into the abode and they also play the greatest role in determining the overall character and ambiance of both the property interior and exterior. This is why homeowners and any design teams that they work with should have a comprehensive understanding of the different options in window styles. Often referred to as sashes, sash windows are an incredibly popular choice among consumers who want a more traditional look and feel for their abodes.

Windows like these are especially common in Victorian and Edwardian-style homes. Thus, if you own existing construction that is one of these two architectural types, investing in sash window restorations or even the installation of new sashes is almost essential. This is the only way to truly maintain the overall historic integrity of these property designs. The installation of modern, vinyl or aluminum window styles will only detract from the natural, aesthetic beauty of these buildings. Moreover, it could require significant structural innovations given that buildings like these were often designed specifically for the installation of sashes and often have a number of non-traditional window shapes and sizes that might not look well with non-traditional window styles.

Options like these are comprised of two panels that are movable. These panels themselves are referred to as sashes. Sliding sash window styles are the most common and these are comprised of two separate sashes that move vertically with one position in the front and the other directly behind it. These are then counterbalanced by a relatively simple system of cords and lead weights. This is actually the historic version of these designs, however, more modern versions are reliant upon springs as opposed to lead weights. In addition to being incredibly, visually appealing, they are also highly functional and capable of providing a number of practical benefits.

One thing to note about the earliest and most historically accurate of these designs is that they do not tilt inwards or outwards. There are, however, a number of modern window makers that are capable of producing tilting sashes without veering too far away from the more conventional look of these structures. Moreover, it is not possible to secure windows like these that can swing outwards. Instead, they can be opened at the top, the bottom or at either end. “Sash” is actually derived from a French word that means frame. As such, it refers to either glazing or a single frame.

Conventional options are comprised of a number of very small-sized panes that are fashioned together with glazing bars. This in turn produces a much larger, glazed surface. More than several hundred years old, the initial styles were certainly reflective of the limitations in glass-making technologies. At their inception, these units were comprised of many small-sized pieces of glass, often eight or more. As glass-making technologies advanced and it became possible to produce larger and clearer panes of glass, however, individual sections became much larger and the finished result become clearer and significantly more pleasing to the eye.

These designs are a vital part of the architectural history of Britain. They made their introduction into England’s building and development scene during the latter portion of the 17th century via France. For more than two centuries, these were considered to be the most fashionable options in window designs throughout all of Britain. This is why they are notably present in buildings that still remain from the Regency, Georgian and Victorian periods.

One of the most impressive things to know about these structures is that they are capable of lasting for a very long time. This, however, is only true when they are diligently and properly maintained. With proper maintenance and care, there are actually some sash window styles that have lasted for nearly 300 years. Evidence of this can be seen at the historic Ham House in London.

Among some of the more practical benefits provided by these structures is excellent building ventilation. Designs like these are actually among the very best for promoting optimal air flow. Given their unique construct and the unique way in which they work, even slightly opening these structures can produce a powerful flow of cooling air when needed. This can be incredibly helpful in historic construction that lacks a modern, built-in cooling system. Rather than relying on window air conditioners or free-standing, portable cooling units, building residents can simply take advantage of these highly efficient openings.

The window designs are also capable of providing an impressive amount of security. It is vital to note that these window styles can be locked securely in position, even if they are slightly open. As such, you can continue to keep them open without fear of having unauthorized parties gain access to the abode. This way, if you enjoy sleeping at night with the benefits of a cooling outdoor breeze, you don’t have to worry about break-ins. The glazing also contributes to increased security. Given that each unit is comprised of several different panels, a broken window is not as much of a concern. Intruders would find it absolutely impossible to climb through these diminutive openings while the glazing bars continue to remain intact.

Homeowners should understand, however, that both maintenance and vigilance are a must with these structures. With a weighted, cord system, it is possible to have a cord break on just one side of the unit. While the unit itself will continue to open and close as normal, the loss of the second cord will place an undue amount of stress on the remaining one. This will expedite the breakdown of this remaining cord which could mean that the window will stop opening and closing entirely. Thus, if a single cord is broken, rapid restoration and repairs should be performed. This is all the more true when a home has period sashes or even original sashes. The good news is that most common forms of damage to these structures can often be easy rectified and at a very moderate cost.

Wood rot is an obvious concern given that sashes are largely comprised of this natural and naturally-insulating material. As such, the majority of sash maintenance should involve these surfaces. Flaking paint is a common cause of rot. The best way to avoid this is through the regular application of modern pain or modern pain finishes. Homeowners should note, however, that any buildup of excess paint will invariably lead to problems as well. This can cause sashes to stick, thereby making them difficult to open and close. If people find that their windows are slow to respond to efforts to move them out of their closed positions, they can simply use sugar soap to perform a quick rubdown of these surfaces before applying any new applications of paint or finish.

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