Sash Window Repairs, Renovation and Replacement.
Repair and Renovation
Sash windows are both pleasing to look at and through as well as being very functional. However, being made of wood they need maintenance and often repair. As many owners wish to, or are obliged to, retain the original design and size then sympathetic repairs are specified. Sometimes, however, new sashes and frames have to be made, since they are unlikely to be stock items at a builders’ merchant.
Renovation could be a complete operational overhaul of the window: removal of sashes; joints strengthened, if required; replacement of decayed timbers, parting and staff beads; re-balancing; re-cording and a full set of window furniture and locks in brass or chrome.
If necessary, I can make like for like replacement sashes, single or double- glazed, for installation in the original box frames. If the box frame is to be replaced traditional joinery methods and quality timber will be used to match the original. All this work can be made to comply with all current regulations and includes making good any plastering and paint work.
Draught proofing
It is often expedient to invest in a draught proofing system once repairs are underway. Modern plastic and fibre extrusions can be fitted, almost invisibly, not only reducing draughts and consequent heat loss substantially, but also making the sashes slide more smoothly. There are a number of systems that can be fitted unobtrusively. Usually, the staff and parting beads are replaced with new to match existing detailing incorporating the new draught proofing system. Other seals are fitted to the top, middle and bottom rails of the sashes. At the same time sash cords can be replaced, sashes correctly balanced and adjusted, as required.
Sealing the gaps through which cold air enters, saves money on heating, and improves the energy efficiency of a home, as well as cutting down the ingress of noise, dust and air-borne pollutants into your home.
Double-glazing
Fitting double-glazing has obvious benefits of thermal insulation, noise reduction, and improved security. Although it is possible to fit replacement plastic sash windows that are double-glazed and well sealed they are often a poor visual match to existing wooden frames. A well-made wooden sash window will have narrow sash frames and glazing bars and this is not easy to match in plastic extrusion. It is possible to fit double-glazed glazing into some traditional sash windows if the glazing bars and sashes are deep enough. However, this will necessitate removing the original glass that often gives such a distinctive and attractive reflection and distortion.
Completely new sashes can be specified to fit the existing frames. These wooden sashes can be double-glazed with energy-efficient glass.