Many look at the old double-hung windows of ‘period’ houses as intrinsic to their looks and value. They should be saved, if possible, in every circumstance and not replaced except as a last resort. It makes sense. These windows have been around for a long time doing their job and they’re probably getting tired! Here’s a bit about how sash windows work.

It was once said by a gentleman who made his business restoring old houses, “Less than half the people who live in older houses have ever seen the windows work as was intended.” He’s probably right. The good news is that a great many window repairs are quick and easy to do and can return the window back to new (or close). Some fixes you might even be a able to do yourself.

Sometimes, all it takes to fix an inoperable sash window is the removal of a zillion coats of paint. If the window has been there for decades (or centuries, even), there’s a good chance it’s taken a few coats of paint. Sometimes one right over the last, right over the last again.

One problem most common to all sash windows is a malfunctioning of the weight and pulley system that’s used in counter-balancing of the sash. After any number of years of operation, the ropes or chains just wear out and need replacement. This can be another DIY for some. The weight system is reached through the removal of a cover plate located on the window frame surface.

The cords (or chains) that the counter-weights hang on will normally break during their lifetime of service, but they can be replaced fairly easily. If you’re handy you might be able to do this one yourself, DIY style. You know, after a hundred years or so those ropes are going to be tired! It’s fairly straightforward to replace them.

Here’s the best advice. Old sash windows should be repaired rather than replaced. They’re already old and been doing their job with little appreciation. They would love it if you decided to fix them up, good as new. You’d love it too. Modern, trendy, plastic windows just don’t look good on an older house.

Here’s a little more advice. If you want to find someone to fix your windows, look for someone who makes that kind of work his specialty. He’ll know how sash windows work and how to fix them when they don’t. Use a specialist. They’re out there.

Learn everything you need to know about how to repair your windows at a sash window workshop now! Discover how you can easily increase the value of your home when you have sash window repairs done as soon as they are needed.

Tags: blogging, builders, carpentry, construction, decorators, double glazing, home, house, property, sash windows, windows

This entry was posted on Monday, April 12th, 2010 at 3:25 pm and is filed under blogging. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.