Learn How Period Sash Window Restoration Will Boost The Sale Value Of Your Property

Sash windows are an important part of the heritage of our towns and cities. The character of many buildings depends on the retention of the doors, windows and other fittings which the architect designed for them. Keeping original features such as sash windows is also not just a question of taste. It can make economic sense because the windows were originally made from the highest quality wood available, and real estate agents agree that the retention of original features adds value to properties, and helps them to sell more quickly. This article explains how sash window restoration can increase the sale value of your property.

The first sash windows were a single-hung variety, probably invented in France. This style was imported into England during the 17th century, where the double-hung variety then seems to have been invented, some time around the year 1700. These new windows allowed more varied and subtle ventilation than the earlier side-hung casements, which they quickly displaced from new building designs.

Until about 1700 many windows used native oak, and other hardwoods, but as these woods were becoming rarer and more expensive, they were replaced by what joiners called deal. This included various softwoods from fir and pine trees.

Many old windows remain in quite good condition because the original builders used high-quality heartwood, that is wood from the center of the tree. The modern practice is to use the much cheaper sapwood, which is rather inferior.

During any sash window repair project it is important to use the best quality wood. If top-quality heartwood is not available, then use sapwood which has been thoroughly treated with timber preservative. Despite the popular belief that all softwoods are of inferior quality, there are many top quality woods available from well managed forests in Scandinavia, North America and the UK.

When sash windows are being repaired it is possible to introduce modern improvements such as weather seals. These are fitted into grooves which can be machined into the sashes. They are both discreet, and effective at eliminating draughts and rattles.

There are also modern glasses available which provide better thermal and noise performance than the original window glass. Security, plus safety for young children, may also be improved by fitting more modern varieties of lock.

Get inside info on how sash window restoration can significantly increase the sale value of your property now in our comprehensive review of sash window repairs and sash windows london .