Sash Window Refurbishment May Be Expensive But It Restores Old World Charm

| Wednesday, May 25, 2011
By Nathan Thompson


Introduced in the middle of the sixteen hundreds these elegant sashes have formed part of home furnishings for centuries. Made by skilled carpenters whose work has certainly proven itself as can be seen by the numerous examples still in operation today in heritage homes. However continual usage and exposure to severe weather changes has led to many frames being in need of sash window refurbishment.

Made up of two frames traditionally in a two by three pane combination these windows move freely up and down their wooden runners. Old frames have shrunk and become worn with regular use and are now loose fitting and draughty.

When restoring an old building a person often has to make tough decisions not only for the short term but for the long term cost effectiveness. Replacing bad-fitting frames with better fitting windows can save money by reducing heating bill costs although aesthetically they might not be as appealing.

Numerous firms offer an on site refurbishing service and even frames that are broken or have missing pieces can be repaired. However refurbishing is all done by hand which could prove to be expensive.

New methods of draught proofing and weather strips have gone a long way to improve insulation. Noise proof glass is now also available on the market that one could used to replace old panes to lower noise levels. An inside locking device can be installed which allows a person to open windows slightly for ventilation purposes but stops them from being opened further to allow illegal access. These locking devices are easy and quick to remove in case of an emergency.

Restoration may be costly but once it is professionally done using innovative methods and new types of materials these windows will be restored to their former glory and a person may look forward to years of trouble free usage and low upkeep bills.

To remove or to refurbish is a huge decision to make and one may want to make a well informed assessment before deciding. Removing frames and replacing with something else will change the facade of one's home and result in it loosing much of its fundamental charm.

The cost at first glance may be off-putting and leaves one undecided on what would be the correct thing to do. However if one considers appearance, old style charm and look a person may decide that sash window refurbishment is worth every penny one will be spending.




About the Author:



0 comments:

Post a Comment