Sash windows are an important part of the heritage of our towns and cities. The character of many buildings depends on the retention of the doors, windows and other fittings which the architect designed for them. Keeping original features such as sash windows is also not just a question of taste. It can make economic sense because the windows were originally made from the highest quality wood available, and real estate agents agree that the retention of original features adds value to properties, and helps them to sell more quickly. This article explains how sash window restoration can increase the sale value of your property.
The first sash windows were a single-hung variety, probably invented in France. This style was imported into England during the 17th century, where the double-hung variety then seems to have been invented, some time around the year 1700. These new windows allowed more varied and subtle ventilation than the earlier side-hung casements, which they quickly displaced from new building designs.
Until around 1700 windows often used hardwoods such as native oak, but these woods were becoming harder to find and quite expensive, so joiners turned to softwoods from fir and pine trees. At this time these woods could be imported from the Baltic and from North America.
Many timber windows built in the last 50 years are already in poor condition, yet there are sash windows dating from the 18th and 19th centuries which are still in excellent condition. This is because the old builders used better quality timber. They selected heartwood, which comes from the tree's center, and is superior to the low priced sapwood which is often used today.
During any sash window repair project it is important to use the best quality wood. If top-quality heartwood is not available, then use sapwood which has been thoroughly treated with timber preservative. Despite the popular belief that all softwoods are of inferior quality, there are many top quality woods available from well managed forests in Scandinavia, North America and the UK.
Windows may be repaired using appropriate materials and modern timber preservatives, and the use of modern paints will lengthen the time needed between new coats of paint. There are also improvements such as built in weather seals which can be incorporated during the refurbishment. The sashes are removed and grooves are machined in them to accept these discreet seals, which eliminate draughts and rattles.
Energy efficiency and noise intrusion can be improved by low E laminated glass, or secondary double glazing can be installed. It is also possible to install more modern locking devices to improve security, and safety for homes with younger children.
The first sash windows were a single-hung variety, probably invented in France. This style was imported into England during the 17th century, where the double-hung variety then seems to have been invented, some time around the year 1700. These new windows allowed more varied and subtle ventilation than the earlier side-hung casements, which they quickly displaced from new building designs.
Until around 1700 windows often used hardwoods such as native oak, but these woods were becoming harder to find and quite expensive, so joiners turned to softwoods from fir and pine trees. At this time these woods could be imported from the Baltic and from North America.
Many timber windows built in the last 50 years are already in poor condition, yet there are sash windows dating from the 18th and 19th centuries which are still in excellent condition. This is because the old builders used better quality timber. They selected heartwood, which comes from the tree's center, and is superior to the low priced sapwood which is often used today.
During any sash window repair project it is important to use the best quality wood. If top-quality heartwood is not available, then use sapwood which has been thoroughly treated with timber preservative. Despite the popular belief that all softwoods are of inferior quality, there are many top quality woods available from well managed forests in Scandinavia, North America and the UK.
Windows may be repaired using appropriate materials and modern timber preservatives, and the use of modern paints will lengthen the time needed between new coats of paint. There are also improvements such as built in weather seals which can be incorporated during the refurbishment. The sashes are removed and grooves are machined in them to accept these discreet seals, which eliminate draughts and rattles.
Energy efficiency and noise intrusion can be improved by low E laminated glass, or secondary double glazing can be installed. It is also possible to install more modern locking devices to improve security, and safety for homes with younger children.
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Get inside info on how sash window restoration can significantly increase the sale value of your property now in our super guide to sash window repairs and sash windows london .
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