Why Wooden Double Glazed Sash Windows Will Increase The Value Of Period Homes

| Thursday, April 5, 2012
By David Parsons


Double hung sash windows were most likely invented in England around the year 1700. The design was soon exported, first to Holland, which was a major trade partner at that time, and then around the world to British and Dutch overseas colonies. Many sash windows still exist today in homes built in the 18th and 19th centuries. These units are sometimes showing their age, and owners may feel that they are due for replacement, but they may also feel a desire to retain the simple elegance of the original design. This article will show why double glazed wooden sash windows can increase the value of your home.

Original sash windows provide a great deal of the elegance and beauty of many period homes, although many owners are plagued by problems such as draughts, rattles, condensation, and inadequate security features for modern standards.

Research has shown that retaining original features will often add to the value of a home, and make it easier to sell. In addition many period homes are located in conservation areas, and local authority regulations may prevent original features, such as sash windows, being replaced by more modern features, such as UPVC double glazing.

Those who would like to fix the problems they have with their old windows, but do not want UPVC replacements, often have two choices. They may either choose a refurbishment project, or they may choose replacement by modern double glazed wooden sash units, closely matching the originals in style.

In a sash window refurbishment project the sash units are dismantled, problems such as loose joints and damaged wood are rectified, glazing may be replaced with more modern low E laminated glass, pulley mechanisms are serviced, and hardware such as catches and handles can be refurbished or replaced. Additionally the owner may choose to have more modern locks fitted.

Although a refurbishment project deals with many of the problems such as draughts, rattles, and lack of modern security, the unit is still single glazed. The low E glass, together with possible options such as heavy curtains or secondary double glazing, provide better energy efficiency than the original windows, but still will not match up to UPVC double glazing.

Owners who wish energy efficiency to be comparable to UPVC can choose double glazed wooden sash windows. These are authentic traditional designs, matching original styles, and built with engineered softwood or hardwood, but providing high energy efficiency just like UPVC double glazing.




About the Author:



0 comments:

Post a Comment