Monday, 27 May 2013
Sunday, 19 May 2013
Preventing Costly Sash Window Repairs
Old houses may frequently need sash window repairs if you had not maintained them properly in the past. If you are up to date with maintenance, you would not have to do too much home improvement work on your home. Keeping your wall openings frequently conserved will prevent expensive and major renovations in the coming years.
It is easy to keep your wall openings looking great and even add some pizzazz to their appearance. This kind of frame style has been in existence for a long time. You can find them in many houses in various nations around the world. Many of them can be found in England though especially in places like Chatsworth House and Kensington Palace.
If you have these wall openings installed in your home, you must make sure to keep them in pristine condition. By making sure that these fixtures are properly maintained there will be less heating loss in the winter. Another good thing about keeping the framework well preserved is that you can also keep noise out. The homes that have these decorative features are known to look very charming and cozy.
There are different versions of this window style that you can see in many traditional European residences. When you are renovating your home, it is best to choose something that matches the architecture and structure of the building. You can opt to add these dressings as a way to perk up the overall look and bring added value to it.
A simple pane of glass is used and then a wooden frame is added onto it to make the sash. You have three options to choose from when deciding which dressing you think would match your house more. There is the single-hung, the double hung and lastly, the horizontal sliding frames. The frames are created in a way that they can move either up, down or side to side.
The oldest design is the single-hung version which only allows the lower part of the frame to move. The original frames had a pulley and weight system that allowed you to be able to open and close them. The doubled hung style has the flexibility to open both upper and lower panels. This will allow the hot air to leave through the upper opening and the cool air to come in through the lower one.
There are a number of advantages to using this kind of wall opening. It adds quaint curb appeal to your house and even enables you to open the panels to get some fresh air in the house despite rain or snow. This improves ventilation during cold months when you would otherwise keep all the openings in the house closed.
Before deciding on your home renovation design, seek advice from an expert. This minimizes the chances of sash window repairs and redesigning in case the type of frame you get is not suitable. You should also get qualified contractors to fix any damages on your old frames to preserve the look of your classic frame design.
For More information on repairing sash windows why not visit London Sash Services here today?
Tuesday, 14 May 2013
How Can Double Glazed Wooden Sash Windows Increase The Value Of Your Home?
It is becoming increasingly common for people to replace
their double glazed wooden sash windows with industrially manufactured plastic
windows in the mistaken belief that the latter is a more economical option.
Rare and little knows problems such as rotten timber, uneven window frames,
accumulating rust and dust on window sills and fastenings and other such
problems due to poor maintenance. Learn the reasons why double glazed wooden
sash windows can increase the value of your home and property. A double glazed
wood window in particular the traditional box sash window consists of two glass
panes that have a space in between them which is compressed with air or gas
like Argon, Krypton or Xenon. This acts like insulation. It is a sort of leak
proof material that has thermal properties to insulate the room from the
exterior temperatures.
By having period looking traditional box sash windows in
your house makes the house an architectural wonder and will ensure that your
home, especially if in a historic area such as London fits in with the local architecture.
The house becomes a model of the 18th century period. Many people install
timber windows (hardwood windows and doors) in their houses. This uniquely
identifies the house. Your house becomes one of a kind. After the installation
of timber sliding sash windows, the overall worth of the property increases. As
the times pass, the value of the house increases. Soft furnishings and window
dressings can be used with the windows that further add to the uniqueness,
style and appeal of the windows. This create beautiful, if not the main, focus
points internally and externally. The windows do not break or damage easily.
There are many myths associated with the maintenance of
timber screens. The fact that they are easy to maintain is little known.
Specialist skills and knowledge is not required for general restoration or
repair, but where the job is a bit more complicated it is cheap and easy to
find professionals and materials. In actual fact, there is no better tip than
to revamp and restore old wooden windows rather than replacing them with
plastic ones. Timber windows if cared for will last for a very long time; in fact
it has been proven that wooden windows can last over one hundred and fifty
years! It may stay still centuries with good maintenance. Window Repair, restoration and renovation must be done on a semi regular basis for long lasting results
this should preferably be done every 5 to 10 years. With proper care they can
be a beauty of your house for a long period.
Wood does not require processing like plastics do, thus
significantly reducing the amount of harmful and toxic chemicals used during
manufacture. Couple this with the fact that wood is a material that makes
wooden sash windows eco-friendly, having a compounded effect in reducing ones
carbon footprint. They also protect your inner area from heat and cold effects.
It is hard to understand why one would voluntarily replace a natural,
beautiful, unique and genuine interior fixture with a more polluted, mass
produced substitute. Therefore it is a wiser option to get them installed in
your house.
Wednesday, 8 May 2013
Sash Window repair advice - Prior to re-painting
Old sash windows are still considered strong to date and there is no any compelling reasons of replacing them with something that will not even last for a decade before needing replacement again. The scenario of sash window repairs can save you a lot of money, time as well as energy in most instances. The wood used to construct this type of window is naturally seasoned aged timber that was painted with lead based paints over a hundred years ago to create a strong window that is still as resistant to damage today as it was when first installed as compared to the ones we have today that may well end up rotting in as little as five years.
Old houses which still have original hand-blown glass is an indication of how old the windows may be. The glass used in older windows might look to be rippled, scattered and bubbled and, therefore can be quite an attractive quality as it shows the age of the house and indeed the uniqueness of your "antique" windows. Despite the fact that windows are unique in design and style, replacement contractors will often try to sell you the idea that replacement sash windows is the way to go, but this is not actually necessary as most old windows can be restored to look as good as new for similar of not less money than replacement windows.
For this reason, if you are in search of glass for your old unit, start by checking it with the salvaged contractors as they will be more than glad to release it. Alternatively, you can also consider checking it with traditional glass companies, there are a few still left that can create hand blown glass to recreate the vintage look. This is to say that, the pane materials are available and accessible from anywhere.
The main structures of the pane often are do not need repair unless severely affected by moisture. This is because they are usually strong and solid, and that is why you will find most manufactures nowadays constructing a ready to fit frames. As a result, you will always find that frames get damaged at the grains, but the good thing is that they can be cleaned and repaired easily by craftsmen.
If severe damage has occurred, it is most likely going to involve the sashes especially the lower ones. If the rot is minor or localized, a fix is required, and if the rot is at the bottom rail or broken a replacement is recommended. Note that only when both the bottom and both sides are missing do you consider it beyond fix. it is true to say that there is a company called London Sash services that carry out sash window repairs in west London at very affordable prices.
When disassembling the interior design a lot of care should be observed. Removing old glass without breaking it is a tiresome process most of the time, therefore, needs cautions. If you find the old putty is loose then use a suitable nudge with a paint scraper to get it off, and in case the putty is dry and hard you may need technical tools to remove.
After the glass is out of the frame and safely kept, the next thing is to remove the old lead paint. Often are the times old windowpanes will have at least a single layer of lead paint. If there are numerous panes that require repair and removal of lead paint then consider taking them to professional paint scrapers where they can be safely removed.
After completing all the necessary things for repair, you can now reassemble the panes. The pane is then treated with a generous coating preservative, usually homemade. Therefore, spend a little time and spend less money by using the services of a reputable sash window repairs company, who understand the technicality and the role played in window repairs.
Saturday, 30 March 2013
Sash window repair and other wooden window related information
Wooden Windows, Sash Windows
and quite possibly…
Everything you need to know about sash window repairs and restoration!
New construction has been
using these types of windows in wooden frames as upgrades for added value and
appeal. Because of the use in older and historical buildings, the look becomes
more classic and traditional in the use of many paned sashes. Historical
repairs and updates would insist on their use to maintain the original
appearance and historical significance.
Several different
architectural styles have traditionally used the many paned type. The number of
panes, or lights, can greatly change the look of the home. Adding taller or
more windows to the plans could enhance the exterior, while providing a nice
source of natural light for the interior spaces.
The single frame variety only
has one moving panel while the other frame stays put permanently. Typically,
the lower frame is the one that can be moved up or down while the panel on top
is permanently fixed to its place. The older variations of this frame used to
have a pulley made of cords and weights to make them close and open. A simple pane of glass is
used and then a wooden frame is added onto it to make the sash. You have three
options to choose from when deciding which dressing you think would match your
house more. There is the single-hung, the double hung and lastly, the
horizontal sliding frames. The frames are created in a way that they can move
either up, down or side to side.
The oldest design is the
single-hung version which only allows the lower part of the frame to move. The
original frames had a pulley and weight system that allowed you to be able to
open and close them. The doubled hung style has the flexibility to open both
upper and lower panels. This will allow the hot air to leave through the upper
opening and the cool air to come in through the lower one.
The horizontal sliding frames
are the most versatile of the designs because they slide sideways instead. It
is also called a Yorkshire window because this style is usually found in that
part of the UK .
This particular variety is not as common as its other counterparts. Prior to making a decision
about your home design and wall opening, consider taking some advice from sash
window repairs specialists. This will help you avoid mistakes once the panels
are fitted in. An expert can aid you in choosing the best kind of frames for
your home that will need less fixing and renovating later on. This will lead to
fewer unnecessary expenses in the future.
When doing home improvement,
the final decision is dependant on the scope of the trouble one is facing as
well as available budget on hand. If simply broken cords that are in need of
replacing then it perhaps look at doing the DIY way as it may be a lot easier
than one might imagine. However if faced with a more complex problem where the
wood is weak or rotten it is certainly best to obtain quotes from some
reputable businesses.
One professional repairer in
particular lists some very noteworthy experience built up over 20 years of
work. The listed services are detailed and leave no one in doubt as to what to
expect. Firstly the whole window is taken for renovation; any wood rot is
removed or replaced with new wood if necessary.
These are the initial steps
when needing to merely replace broken cords, a sample of which should be taken
with in order to make sure the right one is bought. While the mechanism is
exposed add some oil to the pulley itself as well. When the cord is attached to
the weight and pulley, put everything back in place that was removed and that
will mean the end of sash window repairs. Should you not trust your own skills,
another option is to get a professional out to get the job done for you.
Everything you need to know about sash window repairs and restoration!
Wooden casement and sash
windows often become prone to draughts and rot with time. Regular maintenance
carried out on them however, as well as prompt repairs may very well preserve
them. One can easily undertake renovation of wooden sash windows by following
several important steps. The challenges dealt with here include rattling, stickiness
and rotting.
Rattling of wooden casement
panes is caused usually by some ill-fitting lever fastener, which may be rather
corrected with ease. If this fastener gets worn out, replace it using a new one
or carry out plate resetting on window frame into which it has been fastened.
Those sash windows which have become old are quite notorious in terms of
rattling.
This action is occasioned by
sash at the bottom fitting in rather loose manner into frame. To combat this
problem, remove inner staff bead then replace it with long one. Such action
facilitates close fitting against sashes. Do ensure that the rattling effect
does get cured. Perform this by sliding such fitting up and down before driving
the nails in and fixing the problem.
Rubbing candle wax on both
the sliding surfaces of the sash windows will help lubricate the running
movement of each window and should also stop any squeaky noises too. If the
sash on top rattles, pack it out then adjust the position of catch pulling
sashes close together. Fit Brighton catches or
Fitch catches alternatively, Brightons in my opinion are better for security
reasons. You may also bind sashes together via dual screw through lock stop
bolts, security bolts can help with the windows rattle as they effectively bolt
the windows in place.
Traditional casement windows
made up of wood swell on occasion owing to wetness and can stick tight.
Sticking might result from this and render it very challenging to operate a
window. Poor interior design work done on these structures or improper
stripping might also become a huge problem though it may be handled well by
drying warmly. It is also important to consider that the windows may well have
up to 30 or 40 layers of paint on them, this increases the depth and thickness
of each sash window to such an extent that this alone can cause major problems
with any windows function.
Employ clear wood preserver
as well as paint in such case. Persistent sticking action might be arising from
paint building up on window. You could in fact find a structure glued onto the
frame due to wetness. Avoid this situation by appropriating professional house
and home maintenance practitioners such as The wooden window workshop or sash
window draught proofing London , they are three very good companies in London
who work together you can visit them both here:
Free such sticky window
carefully using scraper or even thin knife in the middle of window and frame.
Once this is done, strip old paint at the place where window edges meet frame,
after which do then apply fresh paint cover. Before undertaking this, one might
also require to plane the edges slightly to enable window fitting without
causing scrapes.
No problem ought to arise
when sticking wooden sash windows. Stickiness does not happen unless painting
is done in shut manner or in cases where staff beads are poorly positioned.
Make certain that your house structures are examined for rots on regular basis
with screwdrivers.
At bottom, window frames get
susceptible to rotting in particular. Soft, spongy areas rot up and need
repairing done. Remove any wood chunks that are in decay while employing a
scraper or chisel. Undertake softening of wood repair compound required for
kneading before pressing this into area where damage has been done to achieve
smooth surface.
So much of what is pleasing
to the eyes or other senses is personal. When choosing an interior design firm
to help make a comfortable and aesthetically agreeable home, some elements have
a timeless appeal. Wooden sash windows are being included in the architecture
of some of the top end home construction because of the elegant look and
workable features that may add comfort and beauty to convenience.
A seventeenth century
inventor and architect presented the world with sash window technology. There
is little surprise that this type will be found in all manner of buildings,
both public and private. The most common type of sash window is one that has
divided panes of glass, set in a frame that was historically wooden.
Refinements have been made in both materials and operations.
The inventor designed the
panels to stay up through a pulley system with weights, built into the frame
itself. The pulley and weights are not visible. Some problems with operating
these windows have to do with the wood swelling or rotting. Painting or
staining the wood can protect from rot, but care should be taken not to paint
grooves or joints. Additionally, the weights and cords in the window may
deteriorate and become disconnected from each other, so that the window
wouldn't stay open from the bottom panel without a prop. These windows slide up or
down in grooves in the frame to allow ventilation. Modern ones may be constructed
of metal, with metal runners. These modern counterparts may use springs instead
of weights in construction. While some have a fixed upper panel, an added
benefit for both panels being movable is that by opening both top and bottom at
the same time, a cross draft recycles the air in the house.
Many home improvement
projects under consideration could create a high quality look using wooden
windows. They can be retrofitted into each opening, as needed, by construction
firm. There are many ways to get a new look to an older property using this
design technique. Whatever the owner's intent
or purpose of adding sash windows to the property is, there are choices to
make. Some of the newer construction had used metal frames and runners, rather
than wood. Other types use springs instead of weights and pulleys. There are
options that an interior design firm or construction company could provide more
information to allow whatever vision for the property the owner has, become
reality.
Old houses may frequently
need sash window repairs if you had not maintained them properly in the past.
If you are up to date with maintenance, you would not have to do too much home
improvement work on your home. Keeping your wall openings frequently conserved
will prevent expensive and major renovations in the coming years.
You can keep your wall
openings looking charming and full of personality with this kind of window
dressing. This style of frame has been around for centuries. They are found in
homes in different countries with many of them in England . You can even find them
gracing old houses of nobility and British royalty in the UK such as Kensington Palace
and Chatsworth House.
This frame is made with a
piece of glass in a frame. The panels can be moved upwards and downwards or
from one side to another. There are 3 main framing types: the single hung,
double hung, and the horizontal gliding type of frame. The kind you choose must
be suitable for the design of your house. Think about how your frames should
open or close and if there will be anything that would obstruct them from
moving.
Whether it is glazed,
horizontal or vertical sliding sash window repairs can be a very daunting task
for any home owner. This olden day type window pane is aesthetically beautiful
to the eye but if not properly maintained it could become a total nightmare.
There is nothing worse than a window that will not open or close properly and
these older types are one of the biggest culprits.
Consisting of simple
principles of pulley and weights using cords is what makes this basic mechanism
work. Based on a counter balance type theory, the original inventor is unknown
and the system carries no patent whatsoever. Factually though no person can
deny that it has been in use for a very long period and generally used in a box
type design to hide the system inside inner grooved edges. No matter what ancient
history is attached to these windows, one thing is certain, that most are much
heavier than any modern day design. Therefore when faced with repairing one it
leads to an obvious question of cost of hiring a professional versus the
cheaper DIY option. The good news is that there are many sites that offer
instructions in an easy to follow steps format, which will assist with finding
the problem and repairing it.
Once the renovation is
completed the mechanism is repaired, pulleys are checked, old cords replaced
and weights are adjusted to make sure of a smooth operation. When the wood and
mechanism repairs are finished the reinstallation takes place using special
resin which acts to seal the edges and reinforce the whole system. Sash sections are set in
place by staff beadings, these attached using headless pins. When carefully
taken out the individual sash panes can be removed. This step is necessary in
order to expose the inner workings where the weight and pulley is situated and
be able to take out any broken pieces.
Are you in search for the
right kind of window to boost your home's classic look? Then why not consider
installing sash windows? Why they're naturally charming and admired worldwide
isn't at all that surprising. Throughout history, architects, home decorators
and home owners go for their timeless appea. For homes that exude a
certain vintage or elegant look, timber windows of the sash type is top choice.
The unique graining of wood gives it a certain charm. However, some people
might be concerned about timber's durability. In time, they can rot or break,
especially when exposed to extreme temperatures or weather conditions.
Good thing that when a wooden
part of the window has been damaged, it can be easily replaced. It's easy for a
carpenter to find the exact type of wood used. Likewise, the repair of certain
parts, such as the frame, can be really simple. For the budget-conscious, the
price of a timber sash window may be an issue. But fret not, as those out of
uPVC materials can be a great alternative to timber.
You might be wondering:
"isn't uPVC window, sash or otherwise, look quite tacky?" That was
before. These days, there are windows out of uPVC that are designed to look
like timber. The grains look so natural, that you won't be able to tell the
difference. That is, of course, until you perform a closer inspection.
A great feature of uPVC
windows of the sash variety is their multi-point locking system. Such locking
system is highly effective for keeping at bay break-ins and thefts. Locks may
be purchased at hardware stores for wooden counterparts for added security feature.
If you wish to maintain the window's distinctive classic look, there are brass
locks available designed to look like they're antique.
However, a downside to such
window kind is poor insulation property. If you really want to go for a sash
window but you don't want to compromise insulation, there's a solution. You can
always go for double-glazed windows of the sash kind. They're great at keeping
heat inside the home during cold months. Since you don't have to rely that much
on heaters, you can minimize monthly utility expenses.
Another thing double-glazed
sash windows are good at is keeping noise out. This feature is valuable,
especially if you live near an airport or a busy highway. Installing such
window will provide your home with that unmistakable vintage charm. But more
importantly, you will enjoy the many other benefits of installing them.
Wooden Box Sash Windows and Sash Window Repairs
Sash windows (wooden windows that slide up and down) are a very popular choice for use on
most homes and have been for hundreds of years. The name comes from the fact
that these windows contain panels (called 'sashes') that hold the glass panes in
place. At least one of these panels will be movable, allowing the window to be
opened and closed. Some hung windows contain only one movable panal (sash) but
most will have two. These panels most commonly open from top to bottom
(vertically) but can also be made to operate in a sideways fashion
(horizontally). The glass used in these units has traditionally been
single-paned but recently double-pane and even triple-pane configurations have
been available. When properly installed, extra panes give better insulation and
efficiency.
To make the movement operation of this type of window
possible the weight of the moving panel is counter-balanced by a heavy weight
concealed within the frame itself. These weights are typically made of lead,
cast iron or steel. They are arranged on a pulley system using either chains,
ropes or cables. When older windows of this type begin to fail it can often be
traced back to a problem with this pulley/weight system as they tend to wear
through age and with continued use. It is important to remeber that sash windows are probably the most fashonable window in the world and pretty much EVERY landmark building in the western world will have sash windows including the famous "Buckingham Palace" in London! If sash windows are good for Her Majesty the Queen then sash windows must be good or she would have replaced them all with Upvc by now....can you imagine the out-rage in the British newspapers if she did such a thing.
So, if you are lucky enough to have sash windows in your property then you should not think even for just one minute about replacing them with any other sort of window! Wooden windows London provide a low cost sash window manufacture and fitting service but we would always recomend that you give sash window repairs London a chance first, sash window renovation can bring your old windows back to life and if you take the renovation to the next level and go all the way as it were...sash window restoration includes the full professional redecoration of your sash windows both interior and exterior. Having said that the cost of sash window restoration can in some cases cost you more than replacement so get some quotes. If you have time on your hands then why not give it a go yourself, even changing a sash cord is not that hard if you know what to do...I think that will be my next blog post hint hint!
Sometimes hinges are included whereby the movable sash(es)
can be locked open and disconnected from the counter-weight system. This makes
cleaning the window easier and can also aid in making a quick emergency escape
if the need arises. Spring balances are also sometimes used in place of the
more common pulley/counter-weight system.
If both sashes are capable of moving this is known as a
double-hung window (as opposed to single-hung, if only one moves).
Traditionally made from wood, these units are now commonly made from other
materials (including vinyl, which has become quite popular). Vinyl (PVC)
windows are usually cheaper to buy than wood and are currently a widely used
option for both new construction and old window replacement. Speaking of replacement, owners of older homes are often
faced with the decision of replacing or repairing existing windows that have
become inefficient or nonworking. If possible, repair is usually advisable to
replacement. It's cheaper, generally looks better and can be made to be nearly
just as energy efficient.
In some areas (conservation areas or in 'listed' homes)
certain sash windows aren't permitted to be replaced by the newer models on the
market. Here, it only makes sense to save the old windows by refurbishing them
to today's higher standards. In most cases, they can be made to function the
way they were designed to do.
Friday, 29 March 2013
Suggestions For Draught Proofing The Home
Draught Proofing The Home - A guide for all savy homeowners
Researching the latest trends is always an integral source of review when completing this process. The household design process that focuses on energy consumption often leads people toward various guides and tips that are affordable and able to offer immediate results. Sash windows and other protective items and efforts are usually able to be readily implemented when considered.
The completion of home
improvement projects is often quite exciting for owners around the world today.
Many owners focus on different parts of their house as part of creating a
beautiful decoration appeal while others are more interested in making sure
that all basic functions of their house are up to par and able to offer the
efficiency and cost saving options they are seeking on a regular basis. Anyone
dealing with this particular need should learn a few helpful tips for draught
proofing the home as part of an all inclusive effort.
Draught proofing is generally
a DIY kind of project that focuses on the source of leakage that allow exterior
weather conditions to impact interior living space comfort. People often focus
more on this process as opposed to installing insulation windows as the
products and services required are much less costly and able to complete much
of the same effect. Various tips are implemented that help consumers successfully
complete this process.
Home owners are often unclear
about whether this type of project should even be considered or not. Much of
the uncertainty that exists in this industry is based on the need to be certain
that all facets of their house are as well coordinated and efficient as
possible upon completion. Focusing on multiple forms of advice is actually
quite helpful when making the most effective decision possible.Researching the latest trends is always an integral source of review when completing this process. The household design process that focuses on energy consumption often leads people toward various guides and tips that are affordable and able to offer immediate results. Sash windows and other protective items and efforts are usually able to be readily implemented when considered.
Another consideration in this
process is making sure they understand what specific issues they are facing.
Many consumers find that only specific windows and doors in their homes are
creating an issue which must be uncovered in order to know what to purchase and
how to proceed with any completion efforts. Owners in various cities are also
required to make extra decisions in regard to the climates that are specific to
their region which should always be carefully reviewed.
Only working on one room at a
time is also considered as being a helpful suggestion. Consumers often decide
to take on more than they can handle at one time which leads to mistakes and
ineffective draught prevention efforts. One window and one room at any given
time ensures that the project is more thorough and able to implement the
results one is interested in.
Any purchases made for
installation in this process should be fully understood and closely followed in
regard to instructions. Most energy saving products are offered with highly
specific instructions as they are designed with particular products and
ingredients. Following all instructions carefully avoids lackluster results
upon completion.
Draught proofing is also
completed by considering any decorative options. The ability to decorate the
interior living space is essential for keeping the home updated in regard to
appearance as well as function. Curtains and blinds are offered with all kinds
of design appeal while still providing an effective barrier from exterior
conditions.
For more information on draught proofing and insulation in particular window draught proofing why not take a visit to Sash window draught proofing london ?
London Sash Services provide sash window repairs in west London and all surounding areas.
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