Sash windows add charm and character to homes both old and new. For a more authentic appearance choose wooden windows. The fine grain of timber adds an elegance that is missing if synthetic frames are used. By using timber as a decorating feature, your home will look smart and stylish.
These are very practical in hot weather. As half the window slides open, there is a large space which allows plenty of fresh air into the room. Because of the large opening, cleaning is relatively easy. The panels can be cleaned from inside simply by sliding the panes up or down.
Frames are available in hard or softwoods or in synthetic materials such as PVC. The latter is easy to maintain. However timber looks more authentic and adds character. Properly treated and maintained timber, either hardwood or softwood, will have good durability although hardwood is generally considered a superior and therefore preferable option. As a home improvement project, these will increase the attractiveness and value of your house.
You can choose from a number of attractive timbers. Meranti, oak, ash, redwood and Siberian larch are some of the stylish options available. Triple laminated frames will be stronger and have better durability. If you enjoy the challenge of DIY projects, these are not hard to install by the average do-it-yourself handyman.
Wooden frames do require a certain amount of ongoing maintenance. They have a tendency to warp and rot. To help prevent this, sashes are often pressure treated. This increases resistance to damage both from rotting and from insect attack. Before purchasing new frames, ask about the warranty. Should old frames decay and need repairs, it is not a difficult job to replace them.
When the time comes to repair or replace existing frames, ask your hardware merchant about advances in technology. You may be able to use safety or security glass. Coated or tinted glass will save on energy. Traditionally, these windows open and close through a mechanism of cords and weights. A spring balance may be a more efficient and durable improvement.
Sticking can be a problem. This is usually due to high humidity. The moisture in the air causes the wood to expand and swell. This makes them difficult to open and close. You will need to get the window open before you can fix the problem. Using a putty knife, try to force the blade between the window-sill and the sash frame. Do this on both sides of the window until you are able to free it.
If this method doesn't work, place a pry bar under the window near the sill. Place a lump of wood under the bar. This will protect the sill from becoming marked. Move the bar along until you are able to loosen each corner. Remove any paint build-up and debris from the channel. Wrap some 80/100 grit sandpaper round a block of wood and sand the channel at the point where it sticks. You can also run a piece of wax back and forth along the channel to allow freer movement. Sash windows are an easy way to improve the appearance of your home. They also add value.
These are very practical in hot weather. As half the window slides open, there is a large space which allows plenty of fresh air into the room. Because of the large opening, cleaning is relatively easy. The panels can be cleaned from inside simply by sliding the panes up or down.
Frames are available in hard or softwoods or in synthetic materials such as PVC. The latter is easy to maintain. However timber looks more authentic and adds character. Properly treated and maintained timber, either hardwood or softwood, will have good durability although hardwood is generally considered a superior and therefore preferable option. As a home improvement project, these will increase the attractiveness and value of your house.
You can choose from a number of attractive timbers. Meranti, oak, ash, redwood and Siberian larch are some of the stylish options available. Triple laminated frames will be stronger and have better durability. If you enjoy the challenge of DIY projects, these are not hard to install by the average do-it-yourself handyman.
Wooden frames do require a certain amount of ongoing maintenance. They have a tendency to warp and rot. To help prevent this, sashes are often pressure treated. This increases resistance to damage both from rotting and from insect attack. Before purchasing new frames, ask about the warranty. Should old frames decay and need repairs, it is not a difficult job to replace them.
When the time comes to repair or replace existing frames, ask your hardware merchant about advances in technology. You may be able to use safety or security glass. Coated or tinted glass will save on energy. Traditionally, these windows open and close through a mechanism of cords and weights. A spring balance may be a more efficient and durable improvement.
Sticking can be a problem. This is usually due to high humidity. The moisture in the air causes the wood to expand and swell. This makes them difficult to open and close. You will need to get the window open before you can fix the problem. Using a putty knife, try to force the blade between the window-sill and the sash frame. Do this on both sides of the window until you are able to free it.
If this method doesn't work, place a pry bar under the window near the sill. Place a lump of wood under the bar. This will protect the sill from becoming marked. Move the bar along until you are able to loosen each corner. Remove any paint build-up and debris from the channel. Wrap some 80/100 grit sandpaper round a block of wood and sand the channel at the point where it sticks. You can also run a piece of wax back and forth along the channel to allow freer movement. Sash windows are an easy way to improve the appearance of your home. They also add value.
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If you wish to learn more about a reputable sash window company London area, check out this site. To save money on services go to The Wooden Window Workshop at http://www.sashwindowrepairs-london.co.uk/sash-window-company.html today.
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