If you live in an older house with sash windows it's sort of a mixed blessing. The windows may be beautiful and since they have been around for decades (or centuries) they are no doubt steeped in tradition and character. But they are also old and have probably lost some of their efficiency and functionality. With new advancements, however, it's become amazingly easy to reduce your carbon foot print with sash window draught proofing.
Many owners of older homes have received advertisements from residential window replacement companies touting the wonderful qualities of the new, hi-tech windows on the market. Their job is to try to convince you to replace your 'old, inefficient, non-functioning' windows for their low-E, thermo-paned, gas filled, vinyl-framed units to 'up-grade your home and increase energy efficiency'. Your job is to not fall for their line.
The truth is most older windows are worth saving almost always. When given the choice of repair or replacement, repairing is almost always best. Replacement should be used as a last resort. It is more expensive and the results are rarely as pleasing to the eye.
Windows on older houses were built to last as long as the house and it is still standing, is it not true? But old windows require maintenance in order to function properly. As they age, things wear out and need to be replaced or repaired. If you have really old windows you may have never experienced them working properly. But that can be fixed rather easily.
It could be something as simple as scraping away a few dozen coats of paint. More likely the sash cords need to be replaced or the counter-weights are out of balance. The single most beneficial thing you can do for your windows, however, is to draught-proof them.
You can significantly reduce your carbon foot print with sash window draught proofing. Properly insulating the unit using today's advanced methods will not only stop the draughts but will protect the home against losing heat in the colder months. It will also provide a more efficient sound barrier, keep out dust and keep the glass panes from rattling. Window restoration is a great idea.
Many owners of older homes have received advertisements from residential window replacement companies touting the wonderful qualities of the new, hi-tech windows on the market. Their job is to try to convince you to replace your 'old, inefficient, non-functioning' windows for their low-E, thermo-paned, gas filled, vinyl-framed units to 'up-grade your home and increase energy efficiency'. Your job is to not fall for their line.
The truth is most older windows are worth saving almost always. When given the choice of repair or replacement, repairing is almost always best. Replacement should be used as a last resort. It is more expensive and the results are rarely as pleasing to the eye.
Windows on older houses were built to last as long as the house and it is still standing, is it not true? But old windows require maintenance in order to function properly. As they age, things wear out and need to be replaced or repaired. If you have really old windows you may have never experienced them working properly. But that can be fixed rather easily.
It could be something as simple as scraping away a few dozen coats of paint. More likely the sash cords need to be replaced or the counter-weights are out of balance. The single most beneficial thing you can do for your windows, however, is to draught-proof them.
You can significantly reduce your carbon foot print with sash window draught proofing. Properly insulating the unit using today's advanced methods will not only stop the draughts but will protect the home against losing heat in the colder months. It will also provide a more efficient sound barrier, keep out dust and keep the glass panes from rattling. Window restoration is a great idea.
About the Author:
Sash window repairs London experts provide make your older home more energy efficient and attractive. A sash window renovation is an excellent choice when upgrading your home or business structure.
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