To add character and old-world charm to your home, consider installing sash windows. These give an elegant appearance to a house, particularly if wooden windows are used. As a decorating feature, the grain of timber adds class and style that isn't so easy to achieve with synthetic frames.
These are very practical in hot weather. As half the window slides open, there is a large space which allows plenty of fresh air into the room. Because of the large opening, cleaning is relatively easy. The panels can be cleaned from inside simply by sliding the panes up or down.
Frames are available in hard or softwoods or in synthetic materials such as PVC. The latter is easy to maintain. However timber looks more authentic and adds character. Properly treated and maintained timber, either hardwood or softwood, will have good durability although hardwood is generally considered a superior and therefore preferable option. As a home improvement project, these will increase the attractiveness and value of your house.
Various timbers are used for the framework. Some of the more common ones include meranti, ash, redwood, oak and Siberian larch. Check out suppliers until you find frames that have been triple laminated. These will be stronger and more durable. If you enjoy DIY, you can buy kits and install them yourself. This will save you even more money.
Unless there is ongoing maintenance, wooden frames may warp and rot. Pressure treating helps improve resistance to damage from rotting. Insects sometimes attack wooden frames too. Check the length of warranty on new sash windows. Should softwood frames disintegrate, it is relatively easy to dismantle and rebuild them.
When the time comes to repair or replace existing frames, ask your hardware merchant about advances in technology. You may be able to use safety or security glass. Coated or tinted glass will save on energy. Traditionally, these windows open and close through a mechanism of cords and weights. A spring balance may be a more efficient and durable improvement.
In areas of high humidity, it is not uncommon for timber frames to swell and stick. This can result in windows which are very difficult to open and close. One method of opening the window is to insert a putty knife or something similar between the window and the window-sill. By gradually working firstly on one side then on the other, you will be able to free the window. You then need to ensure it remains free.
If the window still won't open, use a pry bar. Place it between the sill and the window. To prevent the bar damaging the window-sill, place a piece of wood under the jemmy. Work from one side to the other until you can loosen the corners and open the window. Clean the channel of debris and any blobs of old paint. Find the area which is causing the sticking and sand it down with a sanding block and some 80/100 grit paper. Wax the channel for added ease of operation. Timber sash windows will add value and class to your home.
These are very practical in hot weather. As half the window slides open, there is a large space which allows plenty of fresh air into the room. Because of the large opening, cleaning is relatively easy. The panels can be cleaned from inside simply by sliding the panes up or down.
Frames are available in hard or softwoods or in synthetic materials such as PVC. The latter is easy to maintain. However timber looks more authentic and adds character. Properly treated and maintained timber, either hardwood or softwood, will have good durability although hardwood is generally considered a superior and therefore preferable option. As a home improvement project, these will increase the attractiveness and value of your house.
Various timbers are used for the framework. Some of the more common ones include meranti, ash, redwood, oak and Siberian larch. Check out suppliers until you find frames that have been triple laminated. These will be stronger and more durable. If you enjoy DIY, you can buy kits and install them yourself. This will save you even more money.
Unless there is ongoing maintenance, wooden frames may warp and rot. Pressure treating helps improve resistance to damage from rotting. Insects sometimes attack wooden frames too. Check the length of warranty on new sash windows. Should softwood frames disintegrate, it is relatively easy to dismantle and rebuild them.
When the time comes to repair or replace existing frames, ask your hardware merchant about advances in technology. You may be able to use safety or security glass. Coated or tinted glass will save on energy. Traditionally, these windows open and close through a mechanism of cords and weights. A spring balance may be a more efficient and durable improvement.
In areas of high humidity, it is not uncommon for timber frames to swell and stick. This can result in windows which are very difficult to open and close. One method of opening the window is to insert a putty knife or something similar between the window and the window-sill. By gradually working firstly on one side then on the other, you will be able to free the window. You then need to ensure it remains free.
If the window still won't open, use a pry bar. Place it between the sill and the window. To prevent the bar damaging the window-sill, place a piece of wood under the jemmy. Work from one side to the other until you can loosen the corners and open the window. Clean the channel of debris and any blobs of old paint. Find the area which is causing the sticking and sand it down with a sanding block and some 80/100 grit paper. Wax the channel for added ease of operation. Timber sash windows will add value and class to your home.
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