Wednesday, April 4, 2012

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

By David Parsons


Traditional wooden sash windows contribute much to the appearance and elegance of many period homes, especially those dating from the Georgian and Victorian eras. Nevertheless these old units often suffer from many signs of ageing, and cause problems such as draughts, condensation, and rattling on windy days. Owners who wish to have a more modern and energy-efficient window, while retaining the elegant appearance of the originals, can now choose double glazed wooden sash replacements. This article explains 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.

Refurbishment projects deal with many problems such as rattles, draughts, and lack of modern security locks, but the window is still a single glazed unit. Although low E laminated glass is much better than the original glass, and other options such as secondary double glazing can be considered, the solution will never match up in energy efficiency to a UPVC double glazed replacement.

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.




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