Posts Tagged ‘timber’

Details Regarding The Beginnings Of The Sash Window

Tuesday, August 31st, 2010

The sash window, or a window that opens and closes by sliding panes of glass over either horizontally or, more commonly, vertically, originated most likely in Great Britain in the 17th century. While the origins of the sash window aren’t precisely known, we do have a good idea of where it cam from and when it was most popularly in use.

It is thought that the original design came to Great Britain from either France or Holland. It was used more often in Great Britain as well as its colonies in the Americas. The window moves on strings or balances that made it easy to slide the wooden framed glass open or closed. By the late 17th century the style of window was increasingly popular in both Great Britain and the United States.

While the sash window is most recognized now as one that opens and closes vertically, the horizontal style also qualifies as a sash window, and was probably the original style of a sliding window. The vertical version would come later.

The oldest existing windows are found in the Ham House in Great Britain and they were put into place in the 1670s. However there are earlier mentions to the windows which can be found the 1658 Vermeer painting of the Milkmaid and the writings of an Brit in 1589 where he refers to them.

The windows did not become common until the seventeenth century, and about three centuries later they were the most common window to be found in England and the United States, though at that point they began to fall out of fashion. Georgian architecture especially is known for having a great number of them.

A window of two glass panels by three glass panels in each of two sashes is the most typically seen design. It’s not the only one, however; there are many variations of the model. One common way to refer to them in the United States is the “double hung sash” which refers to two mobile panels in the window both being able to slide to open and close the window. A single hung sash has one static sash and one mobile one. In some instances of very high windows, you’ll find triple or quadruple sashes.

The origins of the sash window aren’t exactly known but we know they date back to common use in England in the mid seventeenth century. They’ve been around for many centuries, and their functionality and beauty can still be seen today.

We know some perfect sash window companies in London. They also offer sash window draught proofing service. Are you interested in them?

categories: Windows,construction,property,office,business,house,home,diy,building,wooden windows,double glazing,sash windows,timber,glazing

Some New Modern Manufacturing Processes For Wooden Sash Windows

Friday, August 27th, 2010

If you are looking for all the character of yesterday together with the new technology available today, look no further than wooden windows. The modern manufacturing processes for wooden sash windows allow for high performance without getting in the way of style and tradition. All the benefits of modern technology married to the traditions of history are available in wood.

Wood is a very sustainable material to use in construction. It not only literally grows on trees, but it is possible to recycle it after use into something new. It uses very little energy to process and is an efficient insulator. Wood is an environmentally sound choice.

Compare it to artificial alternatives. Wood windows are made from hardwood timbers with a very high-quality paint job that will last for years. Maintained correctly, they keep their value while increasing the resale value of a home. PVC, by contrast, doesn’t take paint as well and won’t keep its value over the years.

You want a window that is fully weather sealed, and wooden windows offer that. The sealing is hidden, however, so you won’t see it but you will feel the extra warmth. Modern windows are available with an array of locks, from the stylish Espagnolette to high-security Chubb systems. They can be fitted with child proof locks, too, if you require them. The best manufacturers include brass locks and stays without extra charge.

Double-glazed to meet stringent building regulations, high end windows can even be filled with Argon gas, increasing their insulation performance. If you miss the old fashioned putty beads, but don’t miss applying them, wooden windows are an excellent choice. They can arrive from the factory preglazed. It looks like putty!

You can design any window you want. Create something fanciful or match your current decor. The choice is yours. There is no substitute for wood.

With timber, you get the keep the appearance of traditional windows. And you don’t have to compromise. You can also have all the benefits of modern design and technology.

Check with your local planning company. Sometimes, they will require that your house use wooden sash construction to maintain the aesthetic of the neighborhood. It would be a shame to get a letter from them instructing you to remove your brand new plastic windows!

The thought that wooden windows are drafty should be banished from your mind. These modern windows are a serious consideration for any renovation project. Even for new construction, wood is the material of choice.

Wooden windows may not be everyone’s choice. But with modern manufacturing processes for wooden sash windows, they can be your choice without reservation. Get the best of both worlds with wooden windows!

Sash Windows London will give you all of the details you need to increase the value of your home and reduce your energy bills quickly! When you are working with professional Sash Window companies, you will have the benefits provided by knowledgeable technicians.

The Origins Of The Sash Window And Where It’s Found

Tuesday, August 24th, 2010

In order to understand the origins of the sash window one must know what it is exactly and how it’s used as well as how it differs from other types of windows. Another common name for it is the hung sash. A glazed panel is another name for the word sash.

Typically they can be opened one of two different ways. Opening by sliding vertically is one way. Another way, often referred to as the Yorkshire way, is to open horizontally.

A sash weight will be used to balance the weight, or perhaps concealed inside the frame. It is usually constructed from a heavy material like steel, cast iron, or lead. This is essential to balance out the weight of the glazed panels. Without this weight, the window will not be a functioning one.

A type of pulley over the top of the frame will be connected to the sash weight by a cord, string, or chain. The classic version is three panes of glass over two, creating the typical six by six arrangement. However, this can be varied greatly depending on size and preference of the purchaser.

They are most commonly seen in Victorian houses, and also Georgian. They are said to have been designed by Englishman Robert Hooke. He was a well renowned scientist and inventor. The oldest known installed version dates back to the year 1670.

They are most often made from soft wood materials which are pliable enough to mold around the frame. A single or double glaze may be used on the wood. Standard width is around four feet, but can vary depending on the design of the home.

The origin of the sash window can help explain it’s many advantages. One is that it cools the interior of a home significantly. This is done by opening both the bottom and the top portion equally. This allows hot air to escape the room from above and lets in cooler air from outside in the lower portion of the window. Cleaning can be easily done from the inside. Slide the panes to different positions in order to reach the entire piece, inside and out. A few problems can be caused by the natural rot of the wood. This may cause rattling noises and also affect the insulation of a room. While considered to be high maintenance, these are a lovely option for new builders to consider and add to the distinct charm to old homes.

Learn more about the fabulous sash window companies in London today! When you are searching for knowledgeable and experienced professionals who provide sash window draught proofing service, you can locate them easily!

categories: windows,construction,property,office,business,house,home,diy,building,wooden windows,double glazing,sash windows,timber,glazing

What Is The Modern Manufacturing Processes For Wooden Sash Windows?

Monday, August 23rd, 2010

For someone looking to redo parts or all of their home, there are lots of different ideas and steps that you will have to come to decisions about. One of the most important features of the exterior of the house is the choice of window, which can make a big difference. Because of the new, modern manufacturing processes for wooden sash windows, this popular option has become even better for your house than ever before and is certainly something that you should look into.

The window is such a crucial element of the home for a wide variety of reasons, because they encompass both the look and feel of the room and greatly affect both. In terms of looks, this piece can play a major part in setting a theme for the decor and can be visually stimulating, making it a centerpiece rather than simply a necessity for function purposes only.

Secondly, it determines how much light and air gets inside and it protects the inhabitants from the outside elements. For these reasons and many more, you definitely want to make sure that you are getting something good when it comes to your windows.

The modern process for sash windows makes them a number one choice for both of the above categories because they exceed expectations in both areas. Firstly, they are extremely elegant and classy looking and are often chosen simply on the basis on their looks alone because they are much more attractive than most other choices.

They also are usually equipped with a thicker glazed glass, so that less air gets through and they provide much greater protection than a standard sheet of glass. This, combined with the fancy and entrancing look, make them a very well-liked choice that pleases customers to no end.

It is also good to know that the one thing that they were notorious for, which is their tendency to rattle, has now been removed. With the way that they are now custom-fit into a home, any reputable brand that has a certification should not fall into this irritating pattern that homeowners go crazy from.

The modern manufacturing processes for wooden sash windows has truly updated them in terms of looks and quality of function and makes them a top pick for your walls. If you are not yet in the process of redoing your home, this may be something that entices you to start.

Find the best choices for sash Window companies by going online. There you will discover several sash windows London choices that you have to consider. Head online now and learn more.

Interested In Modern Manufacturing Processes For Wooden Sash Windows

Monday, August 23rd, 2010

Did you know there are modern manufacturing processes for wooden sash windows? The windows are not being constructed with methods that are friendly to the environment. The newest construction methods, for one, do not include lead stabilizers. This is great news.

This is good news for the environment and for the human race in general. Did you realize that buildings were made in years past with material that is now known to be hazardous. Lead paint was the reason many kids grew up with learning disabilities. They would eat the paint chips and suffer brain damage. This was a terrible tragedy that should never have happened.

The major component of insulation was asbestos. This is now considered a very hazardous material. Many suffer respiratory problems because they worked with and around asbestos for many years. The lead that was once used in sash windows would break down and be released into the air. This was a very dangerous situation.

This lead residue could be inhaled and cause many health problems. Today though, sash window manufacturers are using, instead of lead, calcium organic stabilizers. The calcium based stabilizers still offer the same durability as lead based products, but this compound is much safer. This a great development.

In addition to using non lead based products, many sash window companies are using recycled materials in their window manufacturing. This also insures that a lot of dangerous building material will not end up in the landfills and make it into the ground and into well water systems.

Many are interested in saving money on their energy bill. The new sash windows are produced with energy savings in mind. In years that have past, windows were not produced with insulation in mind. But now, windows are insulated so that they will keep warmth in during the winter, and cool in during the summer.

Many people actually receive government non interest loans in order to install energy efficient windows. If you are interested in this program, call your local government office for details and more information. There is a lot of grant money ready to be spent.

Sash windows are the favorite type of many people. Now they are even better than ever. They are safer and more energy efficient. Now is the time to look into these windows for your home.

The popularity of sash windows London area has not lessened over the years since they were invented. Sash window companies continue to manufacture designs that work efficiently and look great.

Do Wooden Sash Windows Or Plastic Windows Impress?

Monday, August 23rd, 2010

Debating the question – Wooden sash windows or plastic windows which option gives a better impression in an office environment? – is subjective, of course. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. However, there is no denying that wooden windows, being more traditional, give an impression of solid worth that plastic has a hard time matching. Even the best plastic blinds are… Imitation wood.

The winning team in this debate will have to convincingly argue that the material they support is superior in the perception of the clients who will come to the office. So let us see what arguments may be made.

Starting with answer number three, is it true that no one will notice? When you walk into a law office, do you find a barren waiting room with a Formica table and pressed polyurethane chairs in primary colors? Does the receptionist greet you from behind a plastic window where she sits in a cubicle filled with metal filing cabinets?

Or do you open a heavy wooden door with a brass knocker, to step into a thickly carpeted foyer with red leather chairs and an efficient looking lady seated behind a gleaming mahogany desk. Subscription magazines are waiting on a polished wooden coffee table, and the great outdoors is screened from view by heavy drapes, enhancing the atmosphere of privacy and privilege.

Of course people notice. Then, if what they notice is plastic, what are they thinking? ‘Hey, this guy is smart, and he knows how to save a buck. His furniture is plastic, so it won’t scratch easy. I bet he saved a bundle by using that composite door and look, vinyl windows! He’ll never have to paint those babies!’ Or are they thinking, ‘This office looks kind of lightweight. I wonder how long this guy has been in business, anyway?’

Even if the impression is fleeting, it may set the tone for the whole transaction. Therefore, if first impressions are important to your professional image, you should look to wooden windows to represent your firm. All companies that want to present themselves as trustworthy, financially sound, and of sterling character use the trappings of fine wood, rich fabrics, comfortable chairs, and subdued lighting.

If wood works so well for office furniture and floors, why would any other material be suitable for the windows of your office? Wooden sash windows or plastic windows which option gives a better impression in an office environment? No contest.

Work completed by a double glazed sash window company makes your windows look and feel watertight. A sash window renovation can reduce energy costs.

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!

categories: Windows,construction,property,office,business,house,home,diy,building,wooden windows,double glazing,sash windows,timber,glazing

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.