uPVC and Hardwood Sliding Sash windows – Replacement
Vertical Sliding Windows for decaying Box Sash Style Windows
uPVC or Timber Sliding Sash windows – which
do you chose?
The short answer is, it depends on the
style of home you have and your budget. If you live in a period home
then frankly a lot of the time the planners will only allow traditional
materials such as timber. However if you live in a home that is not
listed or subject to other planning restrictions (such as living in
a conservation area) then uPVC (or PVC-U as it is also known) can be
a viable low maintenance alternative. Generally speaking uPVC will
also be less expensive. That said, it should be noted that
sliding sash windows – no matter what the material are usually
more expensive than the more common casement style windows.
Modern
uPVC Vertical Sliding Sash windows can replicate the traditional
features of its long established counterpart, but with the added benefits
that
uPVC provide. Some suppliers even claim to have used uPVC in a number
of period style buildings, including those of listed status, however
that as mentioned above tends to be still fairly unusual. Optional
traditional “extras” that can be added to uPVC Sliding
Sash windows include a decorative ‘horn’ on the top sliding
sash, and a deep bottom sash profile.
Modern uPVC Vertical Sliders have been
engineered to accommodate the vigour of everyday life, while at the
same time being simple and easy to operate. The main difference between
a upvc sliding sash window (apart from the material) and the more traditional
timber box sash window is the means of holding the sashes in position.
Instead of weights, pulleys and a cord, a pair of sophisticated spring
and spiral balancers has taken over the sash retention. Their design
means they can carry sash weights of up to 40kg.
The traditional glazing bar arrangement
may also be replicated by concealing the glazing bars within the double
glazed unit, or by surface mounting the bars onto the external faces
of the double glazed unit.
Modern PVC-U technology and craftsmanship
means no painting is necessary and required maintenance is almost
zero. Each window
is fully double
glazed for
improved thermal insulation, lower fuel bills and less noise
intrusion from outside.
Security includes the latest key locks
and shoot bolts. Brass catches and optional decorative horns can be
added in order to replicate traditional timber aesthetics if you wish.
Timber Sliding Sash Windows
The Timber Sliding sash window of today
has been much improved and upgraded compared to those of say 100 years
ago. Double glazing is almost always fitted as standard (inc options
such as Pilkington K Glass and Low E Glass). In addition modern high
security locking is readily available. One of the biggest advantages
of timber sliding sash windows is the ability to replicate any period
design feature if you wish. This of course does require the services
of a specialist joinery company and is one of the more expensive alternatives.
The above installation of a hardwood
conservatory / sunroom required bespoke sliding sash windows to match
the existing Grade 2 Listed building – a requirement of the planners
before granting permission for the work to be done. |
