Sash Windows Colchester Essex (CO1): Bringing style, charm and aesthetic appeal to any house in Colchester, sash windows can even increase your home's value. If you are living in a listed building, a period property or your house is located in a protected conservation area, sash windows might be your only replacement choice due to local protocols, and contemporary sash window replacements will be every bit as accurate as the originally fitted windows.
To ensure that your new sash windows fit your precise needs and comply with any restrictions relating to listed building and conservation area considerations, a professional Colchester window company will custom build your sash windows in the traditional way. Skillfully fashioning your brand new windows, a qualified craftsman will use sustainable types of hard or soft wood which are renowned for their resilience and anti-rot characteristics, and are guaranteed to last for years to come. Of course, you might prefer a more modern aluminium, composite, uPVC frame to integrate your sash windows seamlessly with your style of property.
SASH WINDOWS VERSUS CASEMENT WINDOWS
The primary distinction between sash and casement windows, is that sash windows do not use a hinge to open, they slide instead. Two window panels are involved with one, or both, being able to slide up vertically behind the other. To keep the window in place there are sash cords and counterweights which allow the window to be opened by any amount for varying ventilation needs. The classic sash windows did not move in any other direction, but modern versions allow for horizontal or vertical movement, along with offering tilting designs for easier cleaning.
One of the major advantages that sash windows have over casement windows is that they are much more efficient for room ventilation. When both sashes can be moved it's possible to leave a gap both top and bottom, which generates a convection air flow within the room with cooler air entering through the gap at the bottom, and warm air escaping through the higher gap. This can help to improve your personal comfort levels and is especially useful in the sunny summer months in Colchester.
Increased security for traditional sash windows provides peace of mind for any homeowner in Colchester, by the installation of stops, locks, reinforced or double glazing and threaded bolt screws to stop any potential intruder from opening your windows. A reliable form of security for a sash window in Colchester is the fitting of a frame to frame sash lock. Stopping either sash from being opened, this sort of lock involves the fitting of a bar or bolt which fixes the bottom frame to the top sash. It increases security even further because it is not accessible from outside by any potential burglars.
REPLACING OR RESTORING SASH WINDOWS IN COLCHESTER
If your home in Colchester has sash windows fitted and they have become damaged or no longer work effectively (sticking in place, not opening etc), it is time to think of either replacing or refurbishing them. To determine whether it's worthwhile to refurbish your current windows, or swap them for nice new sash windows, you should seek the expert advice of a local Colchester sash window installer.
If a full refurbishment is the decided course for your sash windows in Colchester, then for this work to be undertaken successfully, they'll need to be taken out of their frames. Some sash window repairs may not be that difficult and might just involve scraping off several layers of paint that have accumulated throughout the years, or perhaps the frame may require to be tightened up in a purpose built jig if the window glass is rattling and draughty. You'll most likely find that your local sash window company in Colchester will offer a assessment of your frames and windows to verify any issues, come up with solutions, and give you an estimate for the work. Whether your sash windows are suffering from shattered glass, rotting frames, defective mechanisms or frayed sash cords, there's a fairly good chance that they can be successfully refurbished. Nonetheless, you must weigh up the pros and cons when it comes to what is possible and what's genuinely worth undertaking from a cost viewpoint.
There are a range of sash window mouldings on offer for anyone in Colchester making a sash window or doing repairs on an existing one. This is perfect for repair work as you can purchase the exact parts that are needed. The most widely available sash mouldings are bottom rails, sash bars, ovolo glass beads, glazing bars, staff beads, stiles, parting beads, step cills, transom drips, sash stiles and top & bottom meeting rails.
TYPES OF SASH WINDOWS IN COLCHESTER
Looking at all of the various different kinds of sash windows which are available on the internet and in sales catalogues can be a little bit bewildering. It is simpler to think that there are just three principal designs: Victorian, Georgian and Edwardian. Each of these three designs has their own individual variants which can be modified for the style of your property in Colchester.
Georgian - With traditionally six separate panes in the top sash, over six separate panes in the bottom sash, the "six over six" Georgian sash window is easily recognisable. The Half-Georgian is an adaption of this style with a single pane in one half, and 6 panes in the other, while another Georgian-variant sees a window that can have different sizes of pane in the lower and upper, as long as one half of the sash window consists of six panes.
Victorian - The Victorian style sash window features a 2 over 2 design with a centre bar, asymmetric (2 over 3, or 3 over 2 etc) variations are also possible.
Edwardian - Fairly similar in style to a Half-Georgian, the Edwardian sash window features a six over two arrangement.
It's much easier to ask your your local sash window installation company for their advice on the best style to suit your property in Colchester.
All these window designs can be made for different types of windows, i.e. couple or bay windows, as well as for any window sizes. The Yorkshire Sash is the 4th and final main style of sash window. This style of sash window slides horizontally, and can include any of the variants and principal elements of the other three.
TRADITIONAL SASH WINDOWS AND PROTECTED BUILDINGS
Sash windows up until recently, only had a single pane of glass. It might be necessary to replace your existing sash windows with a similar arrangement if you live in a listed building or your property is located in a designated conservation area. Modern developments permit toughened glass with superior thermal attributes over the original glass, to be used. This will permit you to retain the all round look of your property when replacing your sash windows.
A professional sash window installation company in Colchester will be able to offer advice about ways to comply with the local legislation for your area, while offering the correct and most economical materials on the market. When existing materials have to be refurbished, thanks to requests by your local authority or conservation official, a window by window inspection report may be necessary to minimise any negative impact on the structure. An experienced company will happy to do this inspection and prepare the report along with any technical drawings, required by the planning officer, including the full details of your restoration scheme, and if any replacement works are needed.
It might be possible to upgrade your sash windows in Colchester by investing in secondary glazing. This enables you to reduce noise levels, improve your thermal efficiency and stop condensation by adding a vertical sliding secondary glazed pane to the inside of your sash window. The installation of secondary glazing helps to retain the integrity and authentic character of the building and can typically be accomplished even where you're restricted by planning regulations on a listed building.
CHOOSING A SASH WINDOW INSTALLER IN COLCHESTER
If you want sash windows which will last for many years to come, there are a number of companies in the Colchester area who will be able to supply you with professional sash window installation. Ask relatives and friends for recommendations, and ensure that you obtain a minimum of 3 different price quotes for the job . To guarantee a company's skills and competence in sash window and glazing installation and refurbishments, check for registered membership of either the Glazing Arbitration Scheme (TGAS), the GGF (Glass and Glazing Federation) or the Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme. There are numerous benefits to be gained by hiring a sash window installer in Colchester who's a fully-fledged member of one or more of these trade associations, including warranties in case of poor craftsmanship and methods of getting mediation in case of legal procedures due to substandard products.
Sash window installation can be done in Colchester and also nearby in: Horkesley Heath, Parsons Heath, Maypole Green, Fox Street, Lexden, Highwoods, West Bergholt, Ardleigh, Greenstead, Aldham, Crockleford Heath, Mile End, Braiswick, as well as in these postcodes CO1 1BQ, CO1 1SN, CO1 1EY, CO1 1SZ, CO1 1TP, CO1 1NH, CO1 1SG, CO1 1QE, CO1 1RR, and CO1 1LE. Local Colchester sash window fitters will likely have the telephone code 01206 and the postcode CO1. Checking this out should make sure that you are accessing local providers of sash windows. Colchester home and business owners can utilise these and various other related services. Click on the "Quote" banner to obtain sash window installation price quotes.
Colchester Sash Window Maintenance
One of the best ways to protect a home's sash windows is to take care of them regularly. You should have your windows inspected at least once a year by a qualified professional. A specialist will be able to assess the condition of your windows and make any necessary repairs. You should also make sure that you hire a professional who has experience in restoring sash windows. Unskilled contractors could cause damage to your windows.
One of the most basic maintenance tasks for sash windows is to check the sash cord. It's located in the frame and should be loosened if the window is in an open position. Otherwise, it might cause the sash to rattle. If you've recently repaired a window with a sash cord, make sure to replace it with a new one made of stainless steel or brass.
Another important part of sash window maintenance is to check the weather-stripping. If it's cracked or scuffed, it's time to replace it. You may also notice signs of water leakage, mould or mildew. You should also check the window screens for damage. During the winter, they may get damaged by snow and ice. Therefore, it's best to remove the screens during winter to extend their life.
In addition to cleaning the sashes and performing regular checks on the cords, sash cords, and weights, you should also check the weather-stripping on the windows. If it's worn out, it may be a sign of excessive humidity inside your home. Also, keep an eye on the window screens and replace them if necessary. (Tags: Maintaining Sash Windows Colchester, Care of Sash Windows Colchester, Sash Window Maintenance Colchester)
uPVC Sash Windows Colchester
For over four hundred years sash windows have been used in Colchester homes. Throughout the British Isles there are still sash windows which survive from the late 17th Century. The customary material for making sash windows is timber and it is only in recent decades that different materials have been employed in their construction. Over the generations oak and ash were the most popular timbers for building sash windows, as they were in all areas of construction. Enduring for years and years when looked after properly, these hardwoods are well known for being durable and strong.
Because their widespread use has caused deforestation across the globe, hardwoods are now expensive. Although modern timbers are supposed to be sourced responsibly, it has been estimated that at least 60 percent of Great Britain's tropical timber imports still come from illegal logging.
For this and a number of other reasons, quick growing softwoods such as redwood, deal and Baltic pine are used for making today's wooden sash windows. Softwoods mainly come from sustainable sources, and are far cheaper than hardwoods. However, softwoods are not as durable and long lasting as hardwoods, especially if they aren't well maintained and regularly treated.
Over the last 40 years or so, different materials have been used in the construction of sash windows. The production of uPVC sash windows began in the mid-80s. From this beginning, these were designed to replicate traditional timber sash windows as closely as possible. The first uPVC sash windows were mostly made in white, but a range of alternative colours have been added through the years.
These benefits can be gained by installing uPVC sash windows:
- Highly weather resistant.
- Simple to clean.
- Improved home security.
- Low maintenance.
- Can be made to order.
- Available in wood grain effect.
- High thermal efficiency.
- No sanding or painting.
Sash Window Locks Colchester
Modern day sash windows are fairly secure, and whilst you can add extra measures it is not normally needed with uPVC and aluminium units. Older style wooden sash windows are a different story altogether, and may have their vulnerabilities in certain situations. If your home or business premises in Colchester has traditional timber sash windows, you will probably want to consider what sash window locks are available to purchase, and also what other security improvements you can try out.
Making certain that your wooden sash windows are well-maintained and working properly is the first step in keeping them secure. There are various measures which can be taken beyond that.
You could fit sash window catches, which permit ample ventilation while stopping access by intruders. You could fit opening restrictors which control how far the sashes open. You can install dual screws that can only be opened with a specific key, and secure the two frames together to prevent opening - these operate on a similar principle to the original sash screws that have been used in the past. You could put in toughened glass which is stronger and more difficult to break.
(Tags: Sash Window Locks Colchester, Sash Window Restrictors Colchester, Sash Duel-Screws Colchester, Sash Window Security Colchester).
Sash Window Related Tasks
There are a whole host of tasks that can be undertaken by your local Colchester sash window specialist including sash window locks, aluminium sash window installation, the installation of sash windows, Edwardian sash windows, sliding sash windows, sash window maintenance Colchester, Victorian sash window installation in Colchester, triple-glazed sash windows, sash window refurbishment, sash window glazing, commercial sash windows Colchester, sash window restorations in Colchester, sash window trickle vent installation, sash window advice, sash window draught proofing, flush sash windows, coloured sash windows Colchester, sash window cord replacement in Colchester, wooden sash window repairs, sash window stops, traditional sash windows Colchester, mock sash windows, cheap sash windows, residential sash windows, sash window installation, uPVC sash windows Colchester, window sash replacement, wood sash windows Colchester, double glazing sash windows Colchester, and lots more. If there are other Colchester sash window requirements that you want but don't see here, you can list them on the QUOTE FORM provided. Listed are just an example of the tasks that are conducted by those specialising in sash windows. Colchester professionals will be happy to inform you of their whole range of services.
Sash Windows Near Colchester
Also find: Crockleford Heath sash windows, Mile End sash windows, Greenstead sash windows, Horkesley Heath sash windows, West Bergholt sash windows, Parsons Heath sash windows, Aldham sash windows, Highwoods sash windows, Fox Street sash windows, Ardleigh sash windows, Braiswick sash windows, Maypole Green sash windows, Lexden sash windows and more. People who are hunting for window fitters, will discover that these services are available in all of these towns and villages. By going here, local home and property owners can obtain sash window installation estimates.
Sash Window Services Colchester
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Sash Windows Colchester
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