Sash windows

12 Feb

sash window repairs in London

When it comes to sash window repairs in London, this is a fairly common undertaking. It’s fairly common that over time your sash window starts to develop wear and tear, but this doesn’t necessarily mean your window needs to be replaced. Instead it could just be that you need some refurbishment and repairs did to the window and/or sill.

Sash window repairs in London are not the easiest thing to fix but they can be done by a professional with the appropriate skills and tools in order to offer competent London sash window repair service. With stuck or broken windows repairs can be done by yourself or with the help of a contractor. Sometimes windows can be a source of heat-loss in many homes. They can stick and refuse to open if they have swollen from humidity. If you have blinds on the inside of your window they may refuse to work correctly. There are many things you can do as a homeowner or business owner to ensure that your Mortice & Green window work properly.

One of the biggest issues that people face is windows that refuse to open. The wooden windows north have a higher risk of getting stuck especially in older houses. Many times this is caused by a window which has recently been painted and the paint seals around the window and keeps it closed. In this instance the solution is an easy one: all you have to do is break the paint seal and clear all of the tracks from debris. Once this is done all you have to do is lubricate the tracks and they will work right fine.

If this does not fix the issue then you need to check the tracks. The tracks which are located above the sash window may be blocked as a result of paint build up. You can take a hammer and a chisel and use them to remove any of the paint that has been left behind on the tracks. You can cut out the paint that has tried thickly but be careful not to make a gouge in the wooden tracks. You can then smooth out the window tracks using sandpaper. Once this is done you should spray it down with lubricant.

Should this not work to repair the issue then you can use a pry bar from the outside of your sash window. Start with the flat end of the bar and insert it beneath the sash window. If you need additional leverage, then you can set scraps wood underneath the bar. You should then pry at the corners gently and move toward the center of the window. Be careful because too much pressure can cause damage to the window frame as well as the sash. Once you have opened the window you should clean off the tracks and apply a silicone spray to lubricate the tracks. If the problem persists, then call upon a carpenter for London sash window repair service in order to fix it instead of trying to force it open.

By sash window repairs London, Sash windows , 0 Comments
Read more...
18 Jan

Why Installing Double Glazed Sash Windows Is A Better Option Than Single Glazed Windows

If your home has single glazed sash windows, you may have already noticed that your rooms feel hotter in summer and colder in winter. Aside from the room temperature, noise pollution can also easily enter the home and the glass can be broken with one single knock. Due to these problems, many homeowners opt for double glazed sash windows rather than single glazed ones.

Double glazing is the best way to create an insulating layer between two glass panes. This type of frame works better in keeping the cold out and retaining the heat when compared with single glazing. Many older homes with sash windows tend to be single framed, however, as more and more people are realizing the benefits of these frames, they opt to install them in their homes.

Although thermos-pane or double-glazed sash windows are somewhat more expensive than single-paned ones, you can increase the value of your property by opting for these frames. The reason they cost more is because you will need to fit entirely new units rather than simply fitting a second sheet of glass to single glazing units.

In order for these units to be effective against cold and hot weather, the gap between the glass panes must be airtight or filled with a vacuum. When every window in your home needs replacing, a window specialist will come to your house and measure the panes before installing them. Make sure you choose the most appropriate frames to match your sash panes as you will want to retain the character of your home.

One of the biggest benefits you will gain by replacing your existing frames with thermos-panes is the increase in your home’s energy efficiency. These types of frames stop the heat from escaping from your home and therefore, end up saving you money on utility bills. This is especially true if you opt for oak frames as they last up to 20 years or more. This hardwood material will complement your sash window nicely and retain its character.

Thanks to the airtight construction of these frames, optimal thermal insulation is created. As a result, the flow of incoming and outgoing heat is reduced and less energy is consumed for warming or cooling the rooms. To increase the insulation of your sash window, you can always add a third layer of glass for maximum protection against heat loss. This will obviously need to be carried out by sash window specialists.

Older homes tend to suffer from excess moisture and condensation. Moisture can lead to mold formation and adversely affect your health. It can also make the room feel colder and force you to turn up your heating. Two-glass panes prevent the air between the glass to escape and stop the formation of condensation by blocking moisture.

The other major advantages of thermos-panes include sound insulation. These types of frames improve sound insulation by forming a barrier between the outside environment and the home. What is more, such frames are harder to break than single paned ones so they maximize the security of the home. By ensuring the gaps are sealed tightly, it will be tougher for burglars to break them open from the outside.

Secondary glazing can minimize damage to furnishings and prevent too much heat enter the room. Too much exposure to sunlight can cause damage to your carpet, furniture, and other objects in the rooms. Once these furnishings are damaged, they cannot be repaired. This is the same case with two-paned frames. You must therefore, ensure that the seals are airtight as condensation can occur between the panes. Since the frames are already sealed, you will not be able to pull them apart and fix the problem. You will have to replace the entire window.

A traditional home with character and architectural style should not have PVC window frames as this look will be somewhat mismatched. Most homeowners with older homes opt for sash frames that are made from oak.

Oak frames can also be fitted as two-paned units without the need to opt for PVC. There are many specialist companies that can refit these types of frames on older homes. Oak is a type of hardwood that will last for up to 20 years as long as it is regularly stained and treated.

Two-paned units cost more than single glazing units, however, you should consider the amount of energy savings you get in the long term as well as many other advantages that have already been mentioned. To ensure that you get the most out of your two-paned units, look for the following:

Make sure you choose frames that come with a thermal or plastic section in the middle. These are made from an insulating material such as wood. If you opt for hardwood, it is less likely to attract condensation as long as it is pre-treated in the factory. Oak frames generally tend to lose less heat than aluminum frames. When you compare the two frames, you will notice that aluminum frames can break easily and lose heat by 20 percent.

The low E glass or low-emissivity lets light and heat in but it reflects draught back inside the room. With low E glass cuts cause less heat loss by up to 30 percent. The multiple layers of good quality seals keep moisture, draughts and noise away. You must make sure the joints between the glazing unit and the frame is properly sealed.

The spacers used to separate the glass panes should be made of stainless steel or plastic rather than aluminum. This will reduce moisture and heat loss from the edges of the glass. Gas filling such as argon is an excellent insulator than plain air as it minimizes heat loss by up to 10 percent. It is therefore, best to avoid two-paned frames that are air filled.

Look for Energy Star window units. These are a step up in energy efficiency and performance. In fact, you will enjoy a drier and more comfortable home. The energy star frames minimize heat loss by more than 20 percent so they are worth considering for older homes. To weigh up all your options, look for a reputable window specialist company in your area.

By Sash windows 0 Comments
Read more...
18 Mar

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!

By Sash windows , , , , , 0 Comments
Read more...
19 Feb

Sash Windows Restoration Tips and Tricks

A home with beautiful sash windows is something for everyone to be proud of. However, if a window develops problems, it may not be a simple repair. Plus, older windows may need restoring and there is a trick to doing this kind of job right. Here are some helpful tips for sash windows restoration from your London window professionals.

54abcb 79be970851b94a6c8bdad68efd00cb8d

The first thing to do is protect your flooring. Place some kind of cloth, plastic sheathing, or old newspapers on the floor. This will catch old paint, dirt, and other debris that may be inside the walls or window frames

To properly restore old style windows, you must dismantle them. This can sometimes be harder than you think. Plus, with this kind of job, you may need to disturb the walls around the windows, and redoing the walls afterward, may be a good idea.

You may need to cut out some of the wallboard to get to the sash assembly. If this is the case, you must be very careful and make a clean cut. If not, redoing the wallboard may no longer be an option, it may be mandatory.

Remove as much paint as possible (that is covering the trim and facing). Take your time when removing window facing, and use a sharp utility knife to cut through old paint. Next, carefully remove the facing, making sure it stays intact.

It doesn’t matter if the old sash cord is broken or not. It’s always best to replace it, so you do not have to disassemble the window unit again in the near future. When possible, buy all new parts for the window. If you cannot find new parts, remove all the old ones and clean them thoroughly.

Remove the weights from the old cord. If the cord is broken, you may need to tie a string to the part left in the window, to make it easier to install the new cord. Put some silicone on the pulley and make sure it is clean.

If there is no cord in the window, you might have to use a string with a weight (nut or bolt) and feed the string over the pulley and into the wall. You can then use the string to install your new sash cord (by attaching the cord to the string and pulling it through). Replace all the trim and put everything back together.

If the window is in poor condition, you might have to remove it from the wall. Take your time and carefully pull out all the old trim. Do this slowly, so you do not crack or break the trim. Yet, in most cases, you can restore a window without removing it.

This is the time to replace any cracked or damaged glass panes. Make sure to take exact measurements for your glass, as it must be the exact size. Buy quality glaziers putty, so you will not have to replace it very often.

These useful tips can make our sash window repair and restoration a little easier. Of course, the best way to restore a window is to contact your local window service. They take care of all the hard work, clean up, and can give you beautiful new windows in no time.

By sash window repairs London, Sash Window Repair, Sash windows , , , , , , 0 Comments
Read more...
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.

By Uncategorized, Sash windows 0 Comments
Read more...
03 Feb

Sash Window Repairs London but Why?

b

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

 

 

By sash window repairs London, Sash Window Refurbishment, Sash Window Repair, Sash windows , , , , , , , , 0 Comments
Read more...
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!

By Sash windows, Sash Window Repair , , , , 0 Comments
Read more...
01 May

Sash Windows in the Balance

There are many styles of sash window but all have one common denominator, they all have an operation that requires the weight of the window to be supported to allow ease of opening.

The earliest examples of the sliding sash window had an operation whereby the window would slide horizontally without need for the window to be supported but since around the 18th century most sash windows were designed to slide vertically.

Traditional œhung sash windows reply on a weight system with each window connected to sash cords that are strung over a pulley wheel and attached to a cast iron weight inside the box frame. This cast iron weight is approximately half the weight of the sliding sash, with one on each side they equal the same as the sash window. With the weight of the window balanced by the sash weights the window will lift open and stay open in whatever position the user may choose.

Modern sash windows can sometimes utilise a system referred to as the spiral balance mechanism. The spiral balance is effectively a metal rod that runs up the centre of a strong spring connected at one end. The spring and rod assembly is shrouded within a plastic tube to keep it straight and also for cosmetic reasons. The spring is connected to the box frame sash window run by a screw and the spring is tensioned by turning the metal rod against the spring thus creating tension. Much like some cheap weight lifting and fitness machines the spring mimics the action of gravity by the pulling force of the tensioned spring.

Both sash window balance systems work well but neither a failsafe and will certainly require repair and maintenance over the years.

The most reliable system is, as most professional sash window experts will tell you, the traditional weighted sash window system.

The most common issue with a box sash window is broken sash cords but other problems can occur especially if you replace glass. Older box sash windows will have been weighted for 3mm glass, modern glass is 4mm for safety reasons. This means that if you ever need to re-glaze an old sash window the glazier will no doubt use 4mm glass and you will then unwittingly have increased the windows weight by around 25% The window will then require the sash balance weights to be adjusted to ensure the window still functions as intended. The same would go for spiral balanced windows although the remedy would be simpler as you would only need to increase the tension on the spring to account for the twenty five percent increase in the sash windows weight.

If your sash windows seem to drop closed when you open them or if the top sash slide open on its own then it is likely that you will need either sash cord repairs and or sash window make weights added to the existing sash weights.

All the issues discussed in this article and more can all resolved by visiting our home page or by calling us on 020 7118 9191. We take care of all types of sash window repair work including sash cord replacement, spiral balance replacement and window rebalancing.

By Sash Windows London, Sash Window Repair, Sash windows , , , 0 Comments
Read more...