Tuesday, 9 April 2013

Sash Windows Could Add A Timeless Accent To A New Home

By Angela Colwell


Some interior design visions encompass the modern, while others embrace traditional. All across the spectrum of tastes, there is a need for windows in most buildings to provide natural light to the interior and a pleasant face to the exterior. Sash windows have been used for a long time to accomplish both goals.

The history of sash windows stems from the seventeenth century and can be found in a lot of different architectures. The purest definition of this window is one that has movable parts, or sashes, that make a frame for the panes of glass in the window. There may be two panes or more, but the most common ones have 2 rows of 3 lights in each top or bottom sash.

The inventor designed the panels to stay up through a pulley system with weights, built into the frame itself. The pulley and weights are not visible. Some problems with operating these windows have to do with the wood swelling or rotting. Painting or staining the wood can protect from rot, but care should be taken not to paint grooves or joints. Additionally, the weights and cords in the window may deteriorate and become disconnected from each other, so that the window wouldn't stay open from the bottom panel without a prop.

These windows slide up or down in grooves in the frame to allow ventilation. Modern ones may be constructed of metal, with metal runners. These modern counterparts may use springs instead of weights in construction. While some have a fixed upper panel, an added benefit for both panels being movable is that by opening both top and bottom at the same time, a cross draft recycles the air in the house.

Modern updates for historical homes must stick with the same design to remain accurate. New wooden sash windows can be installed in these cases, with complete compliance. Higher end properties, those that want the aesthetic appeal of many older homes, may choose to have these wooden types included in the design.

While designing a house from older times to these times, changing the look and placement of the openings can define the style. Since sash panels may have as few as two lights or as many lights as are practical, there are many possible ways to differ the facade from any other style. Each opening will present a different look from the outside, and provide natural light for the inside.

Many home improvement projects under consideration could create a high quality look using wooden windows. They can be retrofitted into each opening, as needed, by construction firm. There are many ways to get a new look to an older property using this design technique.

Sash windows have been around for three hundred years. They have been used in homes and public buildings, some of which are now designated historical properties. Wooden window construction firms may be easy to find, as well, because interior designers and architects could specify their inclusion in top end new home construction.




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