Wednesday, October 28, 2009

The Particulars Of The Sash Window Restoration

By Nathan Colwell

The sash window restoration is absolutely the more viable option whenever possible. The unique sash window, which is most readily seen on Victorian homes and Georgian homes, is becoming increasingly difficult to find. Restoration keeps these windows in good working order while preserving a special part of history.

A sash window is very much like what many of today would consider a standard window. However, instead of two panes of glass stacked on top of each other, the sash window has six panes (usually) that stack atop of each other. With three panes on the bottom, three panes on top, the pattern is then repeated to the upper window, each panes separated by a thin but remarkably strong muntin bars.

Homes with sash windows generally are easy to spot. These are windows commonly found in home of the Victorian or Georgian design that are authentically designed. The sash window is a panel on panel framework, usually made up of about six panels within a single window. Each panel is then held tightly in place, as well as separated from each other, by a thin piece of wood known as a muntin bar.

Despite this arrangement the sash window is not drafty the way one would think. A good restoration should also remain tight from the wind. There are some customary replacements rather than restorations that have become commonplace. The restoration of a sash window that requires more than have of its panes replaced is often eliminated and replaced with a casement window.

These are not drafty windows nor are they particularly poor at insulating, even when they are in their original condition. You can always tell a high quality sash window restoration by the look and feel of the seal. If there is no seal, air comes in through the window.

While many are starting to replace the sash window with the more restrictive casement window, the full sash window restoration is the gem of the home. These are windows that are becoming uniquely antique, and those homes that have them are particularly fortunate. A window such as this one should be replaced only as a last possible resort. Sash window restoration is a much more viable option for posterity.

About the Author:

No comments: