Posts Tagged ‘double glazing’

Details On The Beginnings Of The Sash Window

Tuesday, January 17th, 2012

The origins of the sash window, or a window that is opened and closed by moving its panels up and down or side to side, date back to at least the seventeenth century. They’re most common in British and New England style architecture dating to around the twentieth century, but there are surviving examples that go back much further than that.

It is thought that the original design came to Great Britain from either France or Holland. It was used more often in Great Britain as well as its colonies in the Americas. The window moves on strings or balances that made it easy to slide the wooden framed glass open or closed. By the late 17th century the style of window was increasingly popular in both Great Britain and the United States.

We most commonly think of a sash window as one that opens and closes by sliding the panes vertically, however a one that slides horizontally goes by the same name. It is suspected that the horizontal design came into use before the vertical one.

The earliest example of these windows can be traced back to their installation in the Ham House in England in the 1670s, but there have been older recorded histories. These include the Vermeer painting done in 1658 entitled “The Milkmaid” where they make an appearance, and also written accounts of the windows in England in as early as 1589.

The windows weren’t regularly used, however, until the late 17th century and by the 20th century they were the most commonly found window in both Great Britain and the States. At that point in time, however, they were not so stylish as they once had been. They were most popular during the Georgian period of architecture.

A window of two glass panels by three glass panels in each of two sashes is the most typically seen design. It’s not the only one, however; there are many variations of the model. One common way to refer to them in the United States is the “double hung sash” which refers to two mobile panels in the window both being able to slide to open and close the window. A single hung sash has one static sash and one mobile one. In some instances of very high windows, you’ll find triple or quadruple sashes.

While the origins of the sash window aren’t precisely known, the surviving early examples we have and the references to them in paintings and literary works have proven that they have been around for many centuries. A beautiful and neat design, their functionality has lasted a long time.

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Sash Window Replacement Wood Or Plastic? Which Is Better To Save The Planet?

Friday, January 6th, 2012

Sash windows have been used in houses for many years. In fact, they have been used for over 300 years. If you own a house in which you need to replace the windows, which should you choose? For sash window replacement, plastic or wood is your most important decision. In order to care for the environment, you should consider each option carefully.

If only one or two windows need to be replaced, then you may not have a choice and will have to stay with the same type of window throughout the house. But if they all need to be changed, then, you will have to do some research. It is now thought that wood is a cleaner type of material to use than plastic.

But wooden windows have their downsides, whether they are real or perceived. Wood is thought to be more expensive. It is thought that using wood is worse for the environment because we need to preserve the forests. Also, it is thought that uPVC provides better insulation, and is easier to look after than wood. Also, it is thought that plastic windows are safer because residents can lock them safely.

In fact, all these assumptions are false to some extent. In terms of overall outlay, although good quality wood windows may be more expensive, they will pay for themselves much earlier than plastic ones. This is because of lower maintenance costs over the years.

Plastic uses up our valuable oil reserves to make. Wood can be taken from sustainable sources. Plastics must also be disposed of in a way which will not harm the environment, whereas wood will break down more easily.

In the end it is up the the householder to look at the pros and cons and to examine all the up to the minute evidence. At the moment, on the face of it, wood is a far better option if the environment is being considered, but it may be that in the future, composite plastics prove to be a far better bet.

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Beginning A Business In Sash Window Repair

Tuesday, November 16th, 2010

Renovation is a very popular subject now. Many people are taking this to heart. They are starting their own business. One such business is Sash Window Repair.

Like any business venture, beginning this type of business takes time. You will need to take a few steps in order to ensure that your business takes off, and becomes as successful as it can be.

One of the first things you will want to do is take a few classes. Classes such as small-business management, finance, and home repair might be some classes to start with. If you want to get even further, try your hand at entrepreneur courses. All of these will help you get some where.

The heart of your business is going to where ever you set up shop. Having a dedicated office space is going to become important. Many people who start out begin in the home. They use one room just for their office supplies. As the business grows, they may have to move to a larger rented office space.

Once you have your office space picked out, and secured, it’s time to fill it with all of the things you might need to use on a daily basis. You will more than likely need a computer to help you keep your client information organized. In addition to the computer, you may want a filing cabinet to hold client order forms.

Advertising is going to be the most important part of starting your business. You want to make sure that you get the word about your new service. There are a lot of ways to do that. The best thing about is that some of them are free.

Getting the word out by mouth is the best type of promoting you can do. It can start before your business is even made official. In fact, it might be how the idea of starting the business happens in the first place. Friends like your work, and then tell their friends, who will then tell others.

Fliers are another great method to get the word out. This process costs little to nothing if you go to the right place. Fliers should contain basic information about the services you offer. Many office supply stores have small-business discounts you can take advantage of to cut the price down even more. Post these on community boards and around to your friends

If you follow these simple starter tips, your business will be thriving in no time. Whether you are starting a window sash repair company, or something else, these tips will work well for you.

Take advantage of the sash window workshop to learn the information and details about how you can install your own windows. When you are looking for the easy and fast way to get sash window refurbishment, the experienced professionals will be able to help you achieve your goals.

The Historic Development Of The Sash Windows And Their Position In Architectural Business

Friday, November 5th, 2010

The historic development of the sash window is a fascinating aspect of construction. Its design features a couple of panels with one at the upper part and the other at the lower part. In many cases, the sash window is designed with the upper part being movable. Majority of people take the window only as a feature for allowing some light in the room and to some extent for airing the house, but windows encompasses some other essential characteristics that include giving a description of the architectural style, taste, social hierarchy, building economics and most importantly changing times.

For us to be able to appreciate the maintenance of the early sash windows, it is quite important to familiarize ourselves with their historical background. Do not forget that there are many purported home improvement professionals all over, who aim to substitute the historic sash windows with modern ones. This then leads to a reduction on the value of the home.

Primarily you will realize that sash windows were not the first type of windows in history. The initial types of windows were the very small openings drilled through walls called wind eyes. Such openings were protected by use of bars, paper cloth or curtains. These types of windows allowed penetration of very limited light but helped create a future for windows as an element of architecture. The inception of Sash windows in the early 17th century is a good example.

The earlier types of windows had a permanent top sash and a lower one which slid through a groove upwards. They could be held up by using metal catches or pegs. Later, there was the introduction of the double hung sliding sash which is common today.

These types of sash window featured the lower and upper sashes hanging on cords in a counterbalance mechanism and were referred to as double-hung. A single hung type operating with the same mechanism but on the lower part only was also introduced.

For over 250 years, this kind of sash windows has remained unchanged with just its position on the wall changing. Different from the existing windows set not less than 4inches from the face of the wall, the earlier sash boxes were very evident externally, however this trend was abandoned after the great fire of London. This cited the boxes as a fire risk as it could spread easily from a box to the other.

Later on, some few improvements were added especially in installation. For example the box frames were placed at the back of the masonry thus leaving a broader space for the window. The evolvement of the glass pane is also an important part of history. You might think it was dictated by the constant changes in fashion trends, but the limitation of glass manufacture had the most significant effect. After that, glass production advanced leading to the popularity of sash windows. One can therefore say that the historic development of the sash windows has made them a lasting feature in architectural designs

Sash windows were important in historic homes during times when air conditioners were not available. Many of the single glazed historic styles now have been replaced by double glazed wooden windows .

Learn Developing A Professional Sash Window Repair Business

Monday, November 1st, 2010

If you are looking to start your own sash window repair business, it can be daunting. Leaning how to start your own professional sash window repair business is not just about having the skills to fit a window but also in learning how to establish your own business.

College courses are probably best for developing this kind of skill. Ideally you should have a practical aptitude and be good at measuring, so mathematics and design based courses will probably help as a start.

Passing a health and safety assessment and getting relevant qualifications will not only make sure you get work, but will also be a benefit when promoting your services. Ideally you should be able to get on the job training with a fitter and learn more about what is involved with the repair work. This experience will give you an idea of how the day to day business works and also give you money to save up to establish your own business.

However you may have already achieved that and are now ready to begin your own business. Registering is often the first step, ideally with a local trade association. This will give people confidence that your work is recognised and give them protection in the event of anything going wrong. If you do have problems, you should repair any mistakes without any extra charge.

In some cases, there may be a franchise business that can help you get started. This is a good option if you want some guidance in setting yourself up. It is worth looking online as it is worth seeing what is available in your local area. Like any company, you should check to see what the set up costs are and whether you would be better off sorting them out yourself.

Prompt work is important, as is respect and manners. Always tidy up after your work and ensure the house looks how you left it. This is not only about looking professional, it will also help you get good referrals and testimonials, which will in turn get you more work. Remember as this is your business, you are also responsible for the image of the company.

Remember that success in this kind of business will not happen overnight. You will probably work long hours and it may be difficult initially to turn a profit. However, with the right application, promotion and smart use of your skills and resources you will create a long term business that is worth your efforts.

Have you looked into the sash window workshop? The sash window refurbishment will be there to refurbish your window to your home or office, all you will have to do is ask.

A Quick Comparison Of Double Glazed Sash Vs Single Glazed Windows

Monday, November 1st, 2010

When you are considering replacing windows in your home, comparing double glazed sash windows to single glazed windows will help you to make a decision on which type of windows will best meet your needs and requirements. Because there are Building Regulations regarding new and replacement windows in the UK and Wales, it will be important to visit your local planning office before you begin comparing and choosing windows.

Cost

Single glazed windows are less expensive than dual-pane windows. Single-pane glass is also less expensive to repair if it is broken. But, over time double glazed windows more than pay for themselves your savings on energy bills and will save you money over the long-term.

The Energy Savings

When 2 panes of glass are separated by non-metallic spacers, they have air or gas introduced between the glass. The gas may be Xenon, Krypton or Argon depending of the energy efficiency desired. The dual-panes are sealed within a frame that prevents air from leaking into the room, reduces condensation in the window and eliminates noise from out of doors.

An energy efficiency rating scheme shows the efficiency of the windows which vary depending on how well they stop heat from passing through the window, how sunlight travels through the glass, and whether any air can leak in or out around the window. The highest rating these windows can get is an A which is assurance that the window meets all of the demands required to provide top energy efficiency in your home.

Single glazed glass are made with a single pane of glass which may be clear or tinted. These windows do not have the capability of the dual pane windows to prevent heat from passing through the glass. When a person chooses tinted single windows, they prevent some heat from entering the room, but also prevent some light from entering as well.

CONCLUSION

Once you have determined the regulations for replacing your windows, you will be ready to compare the different windows and their energy efficiency ratings. In some rooms of your home, where energy is not an issue, single pane-glass windows will not impact your overall energy saving efforts.

In rooms in the home where you want even temperatures and insulation from outside noise, having double glazed windows will be able to meet your requirements and needs. For example, a person that recently replaced their single-paned windows in a 196 sq meter home with double glazed windows, received a reduction of over half their energy costs, as well as significantly reduced noise and no cold spots or draughts in the home.

Talking to a professional who has experience window styles and designs be helpful. They will provide you with details and information about the most cost effective choice that will meet your needs and requirements when you are comparing double glazed sash windows to single glazed windows.

You get good circulation with sash windows so you save money in hot weather. When you use double glazed sash windows you reduce heat loss in the wintertime.

The Results Of Comparing Double Glazed Sash Windows To Single Glazed Windows In Your Home

Saturday, October 30th, 2010

Comparing double glazed sash windows to single glazed windows is not done for appearance but to compare energy efficiency. The act of using two or more thicknesses of glass with insulating airspace in between greatly improves the insulation against heat transfer and noise.

Sash windows consist of two or more panels, at least one of which slides open to provide ventilation to the inside of a building. Early examples of this type of windows which were invented in the mid 1600s, had many small panes of glass in frames. The inner framing is called muttons, and the panels are the sashes. Sashes usually slide up and down, although some slide sideways. Before this time most windows were casements, which are hinged on the sides and open by swinging outwards.

Glazing refers to the actual glass in a window, although the term is sometimes used as a verb meaning to secure the glass into the frame with glazing compound, or putty. The proper verb is ‘reglazing’, or replacing the glass in a window. Therefore, a single glazed window has one sheet of glass, while double glazing requires two sheets of glass separated by empty space. The space is generally filled with air, although sometimes manufacturers will use a gas like argon to fill this space between the panes.

If the windows of your home are single glazed, you will reduce your consumption of energy by changing them over to double glazing. The increased efficiency will probably entitle you to tax credits from the government, which covers part of the cost of window replacement in this way. Many countries are hoping to help homeowners use less energy with such incentives.

Other ways of insulating windows include draperies, which can cut the amount of heat and light that enter a home, or the heat and air conditioning that escapes, but block the view and the natural daylight as well. Tinting the glass has the same drawback and only works against sunlight; it does not help to keep hot or cold air from escaping from the inside to the outdoors. There are clear, insulating films that may be applied to the glass, but this is a short term fix.

Less expensive models may consist of two sheets of glass per sash, with either no frames or faux frames which are placed over the glass to simulate separate panes. However, windows with many individual panes also can be double glazed, and expert glaziers can even do this in vintage windows.

Comparing double glazed sash windows to single glazed windows will show that the double paned windows are far more energy efficient. The appearance of an older house or building can be preserved if windows are updated. It is a good idea to construct modern homes with double glazed windows to start with.

The utilization of double glazed sash windows helps to maintain energy usage at a lower rate than you would obtain with single glazing. Sash windows are historically a great method to promote natural energy efficiency.

Sash Windows Remain A Perennial Favorite

Thursday, October 28th, 2010

Back in 16th century, glass was not often used, as it was a very expensive item because it was not very easy to produce. Very wealthy people could afford to buy it and live in houses with glazed windows. It was during the same century when the crown glass became very common and that lead to the historic development of the sash window.

In 17th century, sash windows were first used. This glass became extremely popular and people started to use them in thick oak frames or in varnished bars. One of the astonishing technologies of early 18th century was the making cylinders using glass.

The major changes that were brought in this new glass were that it was more delicate and the size of this glass was bigger as compared to the previous glass. It helped to make the glass even more decorative and of lighter weight thus, it suitably fitted in to the period of George.

Sash windows were constructed with a classical touch in line with the architectural fashion of the period. They had a totally different look compared to the drab, leaded casements that were in use in prior centuries.

Sash windows became a much desired fashion for those who could afford it. And this was more so with the advent of plate glass, a little after 1850. This technology allowed even larger sash windows to be made.

The original sash windows were made of two glazed sashes. These slid vertically into a solid timber frame encased in the stone or brick walls. Cords, being balanced by metal weights, were used to support sashes that were raised in an open position.

Using the lighter glass plates, tall windows were produced. The sashes opened vertically, as a group of six or more. Elegant homes or building with large rooms had these windows. The windows frame was made up of hardwood and then it was painted.

Modern sash windows are tapered and sleek and available in a variety of materials. They do not normally have the ornate decorative detail that was standard in the sash windows or earlier ears. This is more a reflection of modern architectural trends and cost considerations than any lack of production ability. Certainly, if required, intricate detail can be supplied on a customized basis. The modern sashes works on the spiral balances instead of the coral system. Sash windows today sare very affordable, durable, dependable but, surprisingly, quite hard to repair. With no doubt, all of changes have occurred in the historic development of the sash window.

When you have double glazed wooden windows installed, you can easily and quickly increase the value of your home. The sash windows that you choose will beautify your home and be cost effective.

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Determine Who Invented The Sash Window And What Is Its Origins

Thursday, October 21st, 2010

If you wanted to know who invented the sash window and what is its origins, then we need to give thanks to a person by the name of Robert Hooke, living in London in the 1600s. He masterfully constructed the first sash window. He was an industrious man, always getting his hands dirty will all kinds of inventions. He not only designed the sash window, but was responsible for many other “firsts” as well.

An academic by nature, Hooke also was an excellent biologist and coined the word “cell” meaning a cell within a living organism. He also had great architectural skills and designed many well-known buildings in London. He was a busy person who never sat still. After the Great Fire of London in 1666, he did all the land surveying for the city.

He loved to build watches and soon came up with an ingenious invention namely a balance spring which would be used in clock making worldwide. Additionally, he studied glass and all its properties and was fascinated by its form. This probably led to the making of the first sash window and replacing it with the then inadequate windows of that time.

It was only in 1670 when the first sash windows were actually installed in some stately homes around London. Their frames were robust and heavy and they only had a single pane in those days. Nevertheless, they were heralded as a working wonder. They were so well received that the owners of Ham House in London wanted all their windows to be replaced.

Today sash windows are mass-produced and made from lightweight materials such as hard or soft wood if you want a more traditional look in your home. There are also vinyl frames as well as fiberglass frames that are both said to be more durable as they do not corrode weather like wood tends to do. Fiberglass is mainly used because it contracts and expands with the glass panes which also make them last much longer. These materials give the home more insulation in harsh weather.

We can also find triple, double and single glazing in today’s sash windows which is also said to save us more energy. The air spaces between the glass panes keep out moist air during the winter months, which means lower electricity bills. More glass panels in your window frames will also contain noise levels if you should live on a busy street.

If you delve deeper into the story of who invented the sash window and what is its origins you might find some more interesting facts. However, we will keep that for another time. All that is necessary now is for us to make the decision of when we are going to change over to the cost-saving sash windows for our home.

A sash window company London area provides a selection of parts to replace or fix your windows. Sash window refurbishment London will renovate your old windows quickly and professionally.

Energy Saving Comparing Double Glazed Sash Windows To Single Glazed Windows

Wednesday, October 20th, 2010

There is nothing more important to one’s home than the windows. They allow the sunlight to come in and keep the winter cold weather out. Having the proper windows on the home are very important if one is to realize the maximum benefits available. That is why comparing double glazed sash windows to single glazed windows is so important.

A sash window usually is composed of two or more panes, some of which may be stationary. These panes can be opened and closed for ventilation, some of which are moved either by a sash weight or counter weight which is, in turn, controlled by a pulley. Others can simply be opened by moving side to side. They were used in a number older home construction projects prior to the development of the double glazed window.

There are double glazed windows available that have internal or external glazing. There are different qualities to consider in both cases. Low E glass, on the external pane reflects heat back into the house. When this heat contact the cold air on the outside of the pane it can sometimes cause condensation to appear. They are considered much safer in case of a breakage compared to the single pane.

Double glazed windows can be obtained with internal or external glazing. Each has different qualities to consider. For example, if Low E glass is used it reflects the heat back into the room which, at times may cause moisture to form on the outside glass. This is caused by the internal heat of the glass contacting the cold outside.

Regulations are quite strict regarding the manufacturing of these windows and they must pass all required standards. It should also be noted that there are regulations regarding the installation of any new windows in certain parts of the country and these should be checked before any installation is begun. Usually the company involved will make this determination before any purchase is made.

Manufacturers are very careful when constructing these windows in making sure that they meet all required regulations. The glass used in constructing these windows has a special coating that gives them extra protection against the elements.

When comparing double glazed sash windows to single glazed windows there are many different possibilities. The wise purchaser will investigate both carefully before making a purchase. There are many excellent dealers in these windows who will be more than willing to explain all the details including what is needed, the costs and any other pertinent information.

Double glazed sash windows are becoming popular in the world today. Sash windows will make your home or office look beautiful, just like you want it.