Friday, January 27, 2012

How Sash Window Restoration Increases The Sale Value Of Any Period Home

By Thomas Clinton


Many period properties in our urban environments have beautiful, elegant sash windows. Often these have become troublesome for the property owners. They can be quite draughty, and they rattle on windy days. They may no longer work as they were originally designed to do. This may be due to being stuck closed after many repeated paint jobs. Other problems may include a lack of security, and poor thermal efficiency when compared to modern alternatives such as UPVC double glazed windows. These problems can be resolved by a sympathetic restoration project, and this article will explain how sash window restoration can increase the sale value of your property.

The owners of homes dating from the Georgian and Victorian eras may often wish to improve their windows while retaining the original character and appearance of the property. Sash window restoration using the best quality materials, and modern timber preservatives and paints, can give good results.

It should be possible to recondition windows, so that they function as originally intended, but without the draughts and rattles which are commonplace. Unobtrusive weatherproof seals can be fitted, and there are various glazing options available, improving security, privacy and noise intrusion.

During a refurbishment project the sashes and the weights would first be removed. Any necessary repair or re-glazing would then be undertaken, loose joints would be secured and filled, and concealed weatherproof seals fitted. The weighting and pulley mechanism can be serviced while the window is dismantled. The original cords can be replaced with long-lasting cords, and the mechanism can be balanced and oiled as necessary.

The hardware such as lifting handles and catches may either be serviced or replaced. Improved lockable window stops can restrict the opening area, deterring intruders and making the home safer for children.

A complete sash window restoration gives owners the opportunity to upgrade the glazing. If the owner chooses to stay with single glazed windows, then an upgrade to low E laminated glass will improve thermal performance and reduce noise intrusion into the home.

Sash windows give character and special appeal to many period properties, but can become troublesome for the owners. Sash window restoration can resolve problems, and improve performance to modern standards. In a recent survey four out of five estate agents said that the sympathetic refurbishment of original features like sash windows added value to properties, and made them easier to sell.




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