Posts Tagged ‘sash windows’

Do It Your Self Sash Window Draught Proofing Will Save The Environment

Monday, August 23rd, 2010

Do it your self sash window draught proofing is a good way to save money on your home heating and cooling bill. Many home owners are wondering how they can save money on their energy bill. You might already take steps like shutting off lights in rooms that are not occupied. This is a good step, but you can also insulate your home to save money.

Also, there might be some tax credits or government rebates for people who take steps to insulate their homes. In this tough economy, people need to look are money savings everywhere.

You can find out if your home needs insulating by looking at lampshades or window shades on windy days or during a storm. If they are moving around, then you should consider insulating your home. If you house is made of brick, then primarily you need to check windows and doors for escaping air. If your home is made of timber, then you will have more areas to look for air going in and out.

You can find many draught proofing kits at your local supply store. The kit will have weather strip which you can install yourself. The materials are made to block the areas around the windows.

At first you might think it is of little consequence to block the small gaps in your windows and doors, but this will make a big difference over time on your home energy bill. You will also be helping the environment by insulating your home. When you insulate your home, you will not be using as much resources, which saves you money of course, but also helps keep the earth clean.

There are two basic weather proofing strips. The compression seal is used for gaps between fixed and moving edges of doors and windows. The wiper seals are used for sash windows and sliding doors. Wiper seals may also be used for hinged openings.

You will have to find out the size of the gaps you are trying to block with the draught proofing strips. Before going to the supply store, measure the width and height of the window. You have to know this measurement in order to buy the proper sized weather strip.

The sales people will be a great help if this is the first time you have done this work. There are also books in the library and information on line to help you with your insulation job.

We all need the finest company to do a great job in insulating our homes and when it comes to windows, we know the right company to pick. You will find that the sash window company makes sure they do the job right. They also make sure the sash window draught proofing is done right.

Ways To Save On Energy Costs By Draught Proofing Your Sash Windows

Monday, August 23rd, 2010

If you are a home owner, you may find an easy way to reduce your energy costs by draught proofing your sash windows. Homes lose a third or more of their heat through preventable leaks and drafts, and sash windows are often a leading culprit. Here are some things to consider when addressing this problem.

Sash windows commonly cause a great deal of a home’s heat loss. They are usually older and less technologically advanced than other window designs. There are a number of ways you can try to reduce or eliminate heat loss from sash windows, and they all have advantages and disadvantages.

One quick and easy solution to drafty windows is to use thick curtains, blinds or drapes. Drapery helps reduce heat loss, but it is less effective than other more comprehensive measures. Also, drapery requires cleaning, possible repairs, and replacement, all of which presents costs to off set any savings in energy costs.

Another possible solution is to simply replace the windows entirely. You can get energy efficient, double-glazed windows installed in place of your old drafty sash windows. Total replacement is not cheap, and you may have to give up the design integrity of your window units unless you are prepared to add even more to the cost by having the windows custom made.

Another lasting solution, especially for older windows, is to have the windows re-glazed. This could allow you to improve your old panes while allowing you to retain the original sash design. Accompanying this with a complete overhaul and re-fitting of the windows with upgraded parts, fixtures, and seals will ensure the best protection against heat loss.

The process of upgrading your sash windows may be costly, but in the long run the savings on energy costs will be more than worth it. Furthermore, resealing the windows will help abate outside noise. Also, upgrading the windows in this way can prolong the life of your windows generally because of the replacement and repair of worn parts and fixtures.

You should do all you can to improve the energy efficiency of your home. But one of the most effective ways to do this is to address leaks and drafts from your window units. It may seem expensive at first, but ultimately you will find the benefits will far surpass the costs when you reduce your energy costs by draught proofing your sash windows.

Locate the right sash window insulation company to use by searching online. There you can find secondary glazing London and other areas to consider using. Go online today and learn more.

Sash Wooden Windows Or Plastic Windows Which Give A Better Impression In An Office Environment

Sunday, August 22nd, 2010

People often think, wooden sash windows or plastic windows which option gives a better impression in an office environment. There are lots of different types of office environment, and to decide which type of window works best depends on the people inside, the look of the exterior, and the products on offer. Each type has its place, but which one goes where?

Think of those windows you get in old style houses, that slide up and down and don’t intrude into or outside of the window space. They are sash windows. Wooden ones have a delicate, refined and rustic appearance and often are broken up into smaller sections. With these types of window, it is easy to get a good breeze from the outside, but harder to stop bugs and insects flying in!

Think now of a purpose-built office block, like those you find on industrial estates, or in city centres. These are the ones that are often made to non-Fibonacci standards, and have strange or unique shapes. Plastic windows might suit better here, crisp, white and shiny. This would fit well into the decor of a modern and fashionable office, usually decorated white to connote cleanliness and space.

Of course, plastic windows often open from the side, meaning that if the wind is blowing in the right direction, the office workers will get a good breeze. If it is not, the office will need a good air conditioning unit to compensate!

There are many other buildings that fit into neither the ‘old, antique’ style, or the ‘new, modernistic’ style. So which type of windows should these have? The question here is what kind of product is the company selling, and what kind of image do they portray?

Think about a company, for example, that decorates gardens. They want to look homely and inviting. They are trying to say to their customers ‘we will make your garden look pretty and coax in wildlife’. Sash windows may work best here, especially the wooden kind.

How about a modern construction and interior decorating company, that just so happen to have come into an old manor house in the sticks? Well, they want to let their clients know they are modern, up to date, and fashionable. So they would probably put plastic windows in, bright white and scrubbed daily by their cleaners no doubt!

In conclusion, wooden sash windows or plastic windows which option gives a better impression in an office environment? What the business needs to know is, who are they targeting, and what would ‘fit’ best in the building they have purchased to run their company from?

A double glazed sash window company has the knowledge to make your older windows look new again. Sash window renovation keeps the style of the original but improves energy efficiency.

A Snapshot Of Changes In Modern Manufacturing Processes For Wooden Sash Windows

Sunday, August 22nd, 2010

The modern manufacturing processes for wooden sash windows are a far cry from even just the recent past. During the last century, mass production required days of retooling if new specifications were introduced. Of course, even those time consuming factory procedures were an enormous improvement on the time it took to make window sashes by hand

Each sash was handmade and required hours of work and hours of training. Usually a single master craftsman would pass his skills on to one or more apprentices. They in turn would practice the proper construction and carving of the sash. It was a lengthy process.

Today, a cutting edge, modern factory can change sash specifications in a matter of minutes. Just a few key strokes can reprogram dozens of robotic stations to perform the same tasks that would have required hours to set up in factories only few decades old. Now employees learn computer programs rather than how to sharpen a cutting tool.

Mechanization has evolved rapidly. As early as 1900 there were mass production lines that tried to increase the production of sashes. They became increasingly automated as the century progressed. And now can include more robots than human workers.

Of course the need for handmade sashes exists in various niches throughout the world. Any restoration of an historical nature may frequently require craftsmen who can reproduce the fixtures of the past. Putting a mass produced sash on any window of a house on the National Registry of Historic Homes would hardly be seen as appropriate. The cost of individually produced sashes is of course much higher than the mass manufactured product.

Changing a sash profile is one of the most time consuming issues that modernization has be able to reduce. Instead of closing down a manufacturing line for days, a computerized program can shift the movable cutting knives in a modern plant in minutes. The entire production line can be ready in just a few hours or sometimes even less.

The facilities for construction have evolved over time as well. Vast automated factories can cover acres of ground. The efficiency of these behemoths is greater as well, lessening the need for waste handling. With robotics and other modern processes, as-needed shipping is becoming the norm. Gone are the guild halls when it comes to quality control.

It is clear that modern manufacturing processes for wooden sash windows have indeed come a very long way. From single blades handled by one master craftsman, the manufacturing process has evolved and changed. The flexibility and efficiency have transformed the availability and cost of the modern day product to something quite different.

Do you think much about sash window companies? Sash windows London will help clean your windows and make them squeaky clean.

In Tracing The Origins Of The Sash Window

Sunday, August 22nd, 2010

The origins of the sash window are partly obscured by time, but this type of window is known to have emerged in England in the 1670’s and has remained popular ever since. Widely used in Georgian and Victorian architecture, these windows became popular in America during the Colonial period.

This style, a major innovation that differed greatly from earlier casement windows, is generally credited to a a major scientist and inventor, Robert Hooke. Hooke was an industrious man who coined the term ‘cell’ for the living units of biology he observed with a homemade microscope, discovered many principles of the law of gravity, designed some of London’s most historic buildings, and surveyed much of London after the Great Fire of 1666. He also studied the properties of glass and invented a balance spring which allowed for the watch to be created.

It is easy to match the sash window with the interests of this industrious man, who was very influential in the rebuilding of London after the Great fire of 1666 and was also the architect of some principal buildings. This style consists of one or more movable panels, with a weight, cord, and pulley system to defy the pull of gravity, and a framework of muntins, or wooden strips, to allow small panes of glass to be united in a panel, or sash.

As early as the 1670’s, sash windows were installed in some principal houses in Britain, such as the Ham house as it was remodeled after Elizabeth, Countess of Dysart, married the wealthy Duke of Lauderdale. The frames were made of wood, and the widows were single glazed.

New houses have this style of window as well, although the materials may be more modern. Either soft or hard wood is still seen in many houses, since it gives a traditional look and is a good insulator. Modern commercial buildings and cement block houses may have more informal vinyl or metal windows, often using aluminum which does not rot or corrode. Another durable material is fiberglass, which has the advantage of expanding and contracting the same as the glass panes. It is stronger than vinyl or aluminum, neither rots or corrodes, may be painted, and has a higher insulation rating than metal or plastic.

Newer materials include soft and hard wood, vinyl, metal such as non-corroding aluminum, and fiberglass. All of these materials have variations in insulating factors (wood is best, followed by fiberglass), durability (wood will rot if not kept sealed from moisture, although proper care will extend its life practically indefinitely), and strength.

The origins of the sash window in England may account for its popularity in other areas which were once English colonies.

If you found this article interesting, you can find more information about Sash Window companies in London today! The professionals at a Sash Window draught proofing service will enhance and improve your home fast and easy!

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Paint And Embellish Wood Sash Windows

Friday, August 20th, 2010

If you are looking for a way to completely change the look of your room, painting and decorating wooden sash windows may be the way to go. This is one of the easiest options and can be done on a limited budget. By using a bit of effort, updating your windows can transform your home from dark and drab to a light and bright place that you will never want to leave.

Express Your Taste

There are literally hundred of choices that you can make when decorating your home. For your own happiness and peace of mind, it pays to do a little homework before you jump in to the project. If you’re not sure of the style or look that you’re after, you will need to spend some time thinking about this.

There are dozens of decorator books and magazines available that can inspire you in directions you always dreamed of, but never thought possible. These publications are stacked with stunning images that you can recreate. Also check new building developments in your locale. They are often decorated to the nines and can spark your imagination in an entirely new direction.

When you’re planning the decorating project, it’s necessary to look beyond the selected room and think of the entire property. Multiple windows in several rooms that face the same direction should have similar window treatments to balance the view from the outside of the property. So, the idea is to think about the whole image, not just the details.

Now that you’ve decided on the look of your home, you will still need to examine other considerations. The next item on your list should be your budget for the project. You can spend a boat load of money in a small decorator’s enclave that will cater to your every whim. They can even customize window treatments exactly to your taste. But you will pay for the privilege. For those with lighter wallets, try a large retailer. They offer a good selection at reasonable prices. But, remember you’ll have to do the work on your own.

Doing the Prep Work

Before you apply one coat of paint to the window sash, you will want to tape and cover the surrounding area. Move any furniture that can be moved. Place painter’s tape on the glass paints to prevent smearing. Cover the flooring and any other exposed surface with a drop cloth. Now that you’ve protected the room, you’ll also need to protect yourself. Wear eye goggles to protect your vision from dust or other particles that can fly into the air. You should also use a face mask to prevent fumes or other things from getting into your lungs. It’s also a good idea to clean the window sash. A season’s worth of pollen and dust can accumulate on surfaces. You’ll want to get rid of this before you being painting. Also, if the old paint is peeling or the surface is rough, take fine grade sandpaper and smooth out the surface of the wood. Again, remember to clean way any dust that accumulates as a result.

Depending on how elaborate you make this project, it can be a quick job or a major project. Make sure you leave enough time to complete the work. If you have company coming in a few days, don’t assume you can get the job done in time for their arrival. Always start with the paint. This will immediately freshen the room. Plus, you can’t paint around curtains or blinds. No matter how hard you try to be neat when painting and decorating wooden sash windows, the curtains will inevitably get smeared with paint.

Upgrade the look and feel of your windows by making use of a sash window restoration company. Sash window repairs not only keep the weather out, they make your home look more attractive.

Sash Window Repair Companies In London Are Quite Busy

Tuesday, April 27th, 2010

Sash window repair companies in London are certainly not hurting for business. In fact, there’s more than enough work to go around and the good shops are rushing just to keep up with referrals. London is an area where there’s never an end to older homes in need of window repair.

While some vendors would have you believe that window replacement is the only way to go, don’t be persuaded too easily. They’re probably selling ‘the latest and the greatest’ hi-tech, low-E, multi-thermal-paned, gas-filled plastic-paned replacement windows. That’s the latest thing, anyway. It’s nothing personal, but what looks worse on a one- or two-hundred year old home than modern, plastic framed windows?

In most cases, older sash windows can be repaired and restored to make them like new again. If they were installed when the house was originally built they’re OLD. They probably need some maintenance.

Many people who live in older homes have never experienced their windows working properly. Repairing them might be as easy as scraping away some old coats of paint or as involved as replacing sash cords (or chains), realigning the windows and rebalancing the counter-weights. The pulley wheels may need to be serviced and any faulty putty replaced.

These older windows almost all need the benefit of modern draught proofing techniques. This will not only stop the draughts but also insulate against noise, dust, heat and cold. Old sash windows are known for being draughty due to the methods used in the initial installation. This problem can be easily eliminated.

When facing the choice of whether to repair or replace windows on an older house, the best advice is to replace only as a last resort. These windows have been doing their job for decades… Maybe even centuries. When properly repaired and maintained, they can last just as long as the house. And they look so much better than the newer alternatives. There are numerous top-quality sash window repair companies in London. Try one out.

Locate the right sash window renovation London residents by looking online. With sash window repairs done correctly to make your home look fantastic. Head online now and learn more.

Why Renovating Sash Windows Can Be A Very Rewarding Experience

Monday, April 26th, 2010

There are so many reasons why renovating sash windows can be a very rewarding hobby for homeowners. Sash windows were usually made between mid 19th century to 20th century. If you have sashes in your home then you could own a 100 year old window. Preserving the look of this authentic window could provide problem for the owners.

Usually people who owned sashes at home tend to choose to let go of the window and replace it with modern ones. Some say that they do not like the look of the sashes because they are outdated and old. Others say that these windows could not keep the cold off more effectively than the new ones. Still others, say that preserving them could mean spending a lot of money. These are the reasons they cited why they prefer changing the original sash house windows with modern windows.

The reasons cited may appear to be true but in reality, sashes are still relevant. Even with the modern windows introduced in the market these days. The value of this antique windows could not be quantified. They are part of tradition and history. That alone would merit the need to maintain them rather than replace them. The fact is sash house window renovation will actually cost lesser than buying new ones. You can save money as a result.

Sash house window renovation could be done even for those who seemed to be impossible cases. The window could be made attractive once again. All you need is some time and patience to do it. The hardwood used in sashes are designed to make repair easy. This window was made to last by skilled craftsmen of the period.

Problems that are associated with sash house windows include: draughts, sticking, rotting and rattling issues. To renovate sash home windows, these issues must be effectively addressed so you do not have to repeat the process.

Draughts are fixed by utilizing a proofing that looks like the color of the traditional window. The draught proofed beading can take care of both draughts and rattling issues. With regards to sticking of windows, just apply wax into the channels and sash stile. You can use oil on the top pulleys and buy new sash cord and make sure that the beading is properly seated. Rotting will be removed by a wood hardener to make sure that the window frames are stronger.

Get the right sash window restoration company to do your windows. Look online to find that sash window company London has to offer you. Head online now and find more.

Know More About Sash Windows In Europe

Monday, April 26th, 2010

If the pages of history were to be read and checked for the origins of sash windows, there would be none found. It is a disputable claim therefore of the British, claiming to be the first people using the sash window design. However, if one were to check minutely, trace of sash window would be found in France in the sixteenth century. This gives substance that France would have pioneered sash windows in Europe and has the rightful claim of origins in the historic perspective.

The sixteenth century saw the beginnings of sash windows in Europe. It was glazed windows that were used at that time. Usage of horizontal sash windows was noted by the end of the sixteenth century and in the seventeenth century came the use of vertical sash window also. By this time there is evidence of mechanization of the sash window, and this is supported by the fact that modernization of the jigs and fixtures used by the people then had also occurred.

Colonization was also a major occurrence during this period. While the English people from Britain marched into countries across the world they carried with them the culture, art and architecture of the particular nation. Sash window was also included in this architectural bounty.

This is how sash windows made its entry into Britain from the shores of France. French artisans, skilled in the form of sash windows were taken by the Queen to her kingdom.

It was there in England, thereafter, that these artisans would complete the first major architectural project using sash windows. The claim of Britain to be pioneers of the sash window comes about with this historic project. There is however no doubts that modernization of the sash window like introduction of counter balance etc, did take place in the land of the Queen.

The origins of sash windows in Europe can be well contested due to the ample number of proof that exists of it there in history. It is, however, also a fact that this form of window provides the house a historical touch, even if it is installed on a modern building.

When you are repairing or rebuilding your castle or home, sash window repair company London professionals are experienced and knowledgeable about your sash window renovation. Get professional and courteous help today!

Sash Window Replacement Wood Or Plastic? Which Is Greener For The Earth?

Sunday, April 25th, 2010

Sash windows have been used in houses for many years. In fact, they have been used for over 300 years. If you own a house in which you need to replace the windows, which should you choose? For sash window replacement, plastic or wood is your most important decision. In order to care for the environment, you should consider each option carefully.

Depending on how many of your windows need to be replaced, then you could have several options about what to do. If only one or a few need replacement, then it would probably be best to stick with the type you have already. But if they all do, then you have a real choice. Many people are trying to cut down on the number and types of plastics they use and so environmental researchers believe that wood is a better choice for many reasons.

But many people think that wood is expensive. Also, many people have ideas that this involves using non-sustainable products which end up being more of a burden on the environment than using plastic windows. Also many people think that uPVC may be warmer, easier to maintain and easier to replace if anything should go wrong. Finally, there is the assumption that plastic windows are more secure than wooden ones because they can be locked.

It is known however, that many of these assertions do not live up to the evidence. Wood may be expensive, but good quality plastic windows which are moulded to look like wood can be just as much. The wood windows may pay for themselves in a matter of years because there may be lower maintenance costs involved.

The way it is made, plastic uses petroleum by-products and is much worse for the environment than wood from a sustainable forest. Also, plastic does not degrade in landfill for many years, and when it does, leaches hazardous toxins into the earth. Wood is a completely organic product and is broken down in a matter of years by insects in the soil.

In the end it is up the the householder to look at the pros and cons and to examine all the up to the minute evidence. At the moment, on the face of it, wood is a far better option if the environment is being considered, but it may be that in the future, composite plastics prove to be a far better bet.

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