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How Sash Window Restoration Can Increase The Sale Value Of Your Period Property
Posted on January 24th, 2012 No commentsPeriod homes, particularly those built during the 18th and 19th centuries, will often have elegant sash windows. In modern days some owners find these windows rather problematic. They may have become quite draughty, and they may rattle quite a bit. There can also be problems with condensation inside the home, and they may have relatively poor security features compared with more modern window designs. On the other hand they are an attractive feature, adding to the charm of many old buildings. This article will show how modern materials and techniques can be used to carry out a sympathetic restoration of period windows, and will explain how sash window restoration can increase the sale value of your property.
The owners of homes dating from the Georgian and Victorian eras may often wish to improve their windows while retaining the original character and appearance of the property. Sash window restoration using the best quality materials, and modern timber preservatives and paints, can give good results.
It is possible to recondition sash windows, ensuring that they work as originally designed, and removing the draughts and/or rattles which have developed over the years. The refurbishment can include the fitting of discreet weatherproof seals, and there are various options for the glazing, offering improved security, energy efficiency, and reduced noise intrusion.
During the course of a refurbishment project the window would be dismantled and the sashes and weights removed. The glass may be replaced with more modern, higher performing glass at this time. Loose joints in the sashes are secured and filled, and timbers are machined to accept concealed weatherproof seals. The weights and pulley system can be serviced, replacing the original cords, and balancing and oiling the mechanism.
The hardware on the window such as catches and lifting handles can either be serviced, or replaced. There are many options for security locks and window stops which can now be fitted. Security stops, which can be lockable, restrict the opening area. This can be both a security feature and a child safety feature.
Some owners may wish to take the opportunity of a sash window restoration to upgrade the glazing. It is possible to stay with single glazing, and upgrade to low E laminated glass. This reduces noise levels and improves the thermal performance of the windows.
Sash windows are unique feature of many period properties, giving them character and special appeal. In a survey 82% of real estate agents said that original features such as sash windows would normally be expected to add financial value to properties, and a similar number said that they helped properties to sell more quickly.
The restoration and repair of sash windows London area will add to the value of your home. Sash window repairs can be accomplished, using trained and experienced technicians.
Interior Design building, construction, glazing, home, home improvements, House, Interior Design, joinery, mortgages, property, real estate, Sales -
The Historical Evidence About Sash Windows
Posted on May 5th, 2010 No commentsWhen tracing the history of sash windows one is also tracing the history of our civilization. This window, also called a hung sash window, had sashes, another name for one or more movable panels. Pulleys, springs and balances to move the panels and allow ventilation operated these panels.
Over the years, there has been a dispute among Historians as to where the idea for these windows came from. It has been claimed by Holland, France and England. Regardless of who originated the idea it became very popular with the more affluent period of that period.
The first use of these windows, according to research, occurred in England in the 17th century. Considered a high status symbol they were in demand by royalty and wealthy people. A window which could not be opened, called a lead-light window was in use prior to this time. The new window became even more expensive, and thus more valued, when a window tax was introduced from 1600 to the 1880s.
To enhance these windows various adornments were worked around the windows frames. Some of these are still in place with historically preserved buildings in Europe. They were considered the height of fashion and very desirable. In the 18th century, classic glazing was brought onto the scene. This consisted of placing six panes over six panes and was commonly used in Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian houses.
With the event of mass production of steel window casings and solid windows, the sash window fell out of popularity and further development of the aluminum window decreased their popularity. With the development of the double pane window in the 1980′s and the desire to conserve energy sash windows were no longer wanted.
In diagnosing the reason, for the decline of this popular window it was determined that the labor costs did not make it feasible to continue production. The the mouldings used required special treatment and could not be massed produced. Builders, especially, found the later model windows were easy to install and maintain.
At the present time there has been a renewal of interest in sash windows. Renovation of other older houses has brought a desire to replace the original materials. As a result, the history of sash windows continues and will be noted in the recording of future history.
To get more information about the great benefits of employing sash window repairs London visit today. When you want to increase the value of your home quickly, sash window renovation is a fast and easy way to accomplish the task.
Home Improvement carpentry, construction, glass, glazing, home, Home Improvement, House, joinery, sash windows, timber, wood, wooden windows, work -
Historic Wooden Window Repairs And Making The Task Easy
Posted on May 3rd, 2010 No commentsWhen the paint on your old wooden windows is peeling, and the glass is broken, along with the elements having gotten the best of your home, wooden window restoration is a solution to bringing back the life of the windows and your house.
For a modest investment in the supplies needed for this job, and a few hours work, you can restore each window successfully.
When older houses are left vacant for long periods of time, the owners sometimes neglect them or just forget. Your windows suffer, but this can be taken care of with a little bit of care.
If your wood still looks like it is in good shape, perhaps it just needs cleaning. This can be done with scrapers of different types. Just scrape at the old putty and remove it. If there is broken glass, this will need to be carefully removed, as well. Sometimes sanding is needed. It will make for a much smoother surface for your paint later. The new putty will stick better to fresh, clean wood, so you will need to prepare the bare wood for that with primer. It can be water or oil based.
Measure the glass, and add 1/8 of an inch to the length and to the width for clearance. Your glass can be ordered from any home and building center.
The glass is ready to install after the primer is dry. Putty and glazing points are your primary concern at this stage of the game. The putty should be put on in thin beads, and the glazing points will need to be a couple or inches or so on all the sides of the window and near the corners. After the putty is placed on it as well, press gently but firmly to set the glass in place. Scrape off the excess putty, and let your window sit for a few days to let the putty dry. When you are ready to paint, tape off the edges to protect the glass from excess paint, and paint the wood of your window.
So, if you are going to put forth your efforts into wooden window restoration, give thought to maintaining them from then on, as well. In this way, your future repairs will be less costly and time consuming.
Find out how you can raise the value of your home fast and easy with sash window repairs! You can get the best sash window renovation London has to offer today!
Home Improvement builders, carpentry, construction, decorating, DIY, glass, glazing, home, Home Improvement, House, property, sash windows, windows
