Sash Window Restoration Or Renewal Which Option Is The Best
Saturday, December 31st, 2011
Many owners of older houses need to consider sash window refurbishment or replacement which option is the best for home owners. There are several aspects to consider before coming to a final decision.
Taking a quick look at your sash windows will give you a starting point. Check whether they run true, and if the counterbalance mechanism is working properly. A worn track will cause windows to wobble in a strong wind with associated noises.
If your windows jam, this may be an indication that moisture has swollen timber work or there may just be too much paint on the frame and rails. It is easy to determine whether these can be easily rectified or whether partial or complete replacement is required. Sometimes the cord in the counterbalance mechanism detaches from the pulley and gets stuck on the pulley spindle.
The other problem of never staying put is caused by the counter balance, usually a lead bar, detaching from the rope holding it to the pulley and window. Over time the rope wears and snaps.
To repair, first remove the trims. A flat chisel and hammer is great to pry the trims off without causing visible damage or breaking them. If unsure get in a carpenter or builder. This gives access to access to both the frame and counterweight mechanism. A competent handy man should have no trouble repairing or refurbishing them.
When sashes are refurbished, the counter weight mechanism and pulleys are replaced, and the timber brought back to a near new look. Replacing with new sash windows provides a new look quickly and eliminates the problem of damaged joinery and finding a match for what can be old joinery profiles.
If upgrading from timber to aluminum, then replacement is the only choice. If you can not do the work yourself, often the cost to refurbish timber frames is similar to the cost of replacement. The deciding issue often comes down to authenticity versus warranties on new windows.
If the house design and features scream out authenticity, then refurbishment is the only choice. Modernization versus keeping with tradition can only be decided by how the owners feel. But either way, the best long term solution is to engage professional craftsmen to do the work.
When it comes to the crunch, sash window refurbishment or replacement which option is the best relies on the choice between new and existing. This is a personal issue which has no right or wrong answer. The only issue would be whether the house is subject to heritage or historical orders which may then prevent installing new frames and glass. A good solution to this dilemma is speak to a professional window company who can refurbish or replace. They can give sound unbiased advice on either option.
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