Comparing New Sash Windows With Their Counterparts From A Bygone Time

| Monday, April 25, 2011
By Kris Colwell


Since the mid sixteen hundreds sash windows have been an integral part of constructing gracious and stately homes and buildings. The idea and manner of making them has proved itself beyond redemption to the point where many are still in fine working order today. New frames made nowadays are using the same design with only modern technological changes.

The carpenters who made the original frames would certainly have felt a sense of pride if they had known that those windows would last for centuries and would only need normal up keep and maintenance to still be in good working order.

Cleverly designed to allow the two sashes to move past one another along timber runners these windows were able to be opened at the top and bottom to assist continual cooling air movement in a time long before air conditioners and electric fans.

The heritage site brochures one reads are filled with old manor houses that boast their original sash window fittings. Restorative work and up keep is overseen by governing bodies who ensure that there are no radical changes to original designs. Being made from wood does represent a problem as it weathers badly if over exposed.

The many years of being battered by rain, poorly maintained, irregular restoring and painting has caused some of these frames to deteriorate to a point where they are beyond saving. There are however numerous competent and well known firms who specialize in draught proofing and rehabilitating and are able to restore them to their former glory.

Work is done one site except where frames are badly damaged they are then taken to the factory for full refurbishment. Windows that resemble the originals are being manufactured and many heritage councils are giving the go ahead for these to be used in listed buildings where the frames are damaged beyond repair.

New products that have the classic looks of an old sash window but with the modern technological advances built in such as easy to use, low maintenance, energy efficient and shut securely can now be used to give any property a look of old world charm.

If one is aiming to create a haven of gracious living from a bygone era then these fixtures may be the ones to choose. Installing sash windows made from new timber frames will add a touch of timeless elegance to one's home.




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