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New
Windows
Very often our brief
is to make sash windows so that they look as they would when your building
was originally built. This is usually quite simple to do. Copying the
timber moulding details, the horn details, the profiles and timber widths
is all something that we would expect to do as a matter of course.
If you want a standard,
single glazed softwood box sash window made and fitted then we can do
that.
However, there are
a number of important considerations that you really need to take into
account when purchasing new windows.
Glazing
Single glazed, double glazed, toughened, laminated, clear, obscure, patterned,
decorative, insulated. The glass needs to be carefully considered to ensure
that you not only get the look that you want but also to make certain
that it is safe, secure and complies with any relevant legislation.
Timber Detailing
Traditionally box sash windows were made of softwood. Very occasionally
the sills were made of hardwood.
Generally our windows
are constructed of carefully chosen softwood except the sill for which
we always use hardwood (the sill always bears the brunt of the weather
as water runs down on to it!).
It is possible to
have the window made entirely of hardwood if you prefer.
Draught
Proofing
Draught proofing is fitted to all windows that we manufacture unless a
customer specifically requests a single glazed window made to exact original
specifications.
The draught proofing
system we use is unobtrusive. With box sash windows the draught proofing
is not totally effective but is much, much better than windows that do
not have draught proofing.
There are also additional
benefits: no rattles, smoother action, easier to use, reduced noise from
outside.
Fittings
We use a variety of fittings and always fit a centre catch and sash lifts
to the bottom sash. We always use good quality pulleys and waxed sash
cord.
You can choose from
antique brass, polished brass, polished chrome, satin chrome and white
fittings.
You can elect to have
additional security window stops fitted (these permit the window to be
opened 150mm for ventilation while still preventing entry).
You can also choose
to have D handles fitted to the top sash that will make use of the top
sash much easier.
Trimming and Making
Good
Box sash windows are traditionally finished with small internal window
boards and architraves. These are included in your quote. Almost inevitably
some of the plaster may be damaged and the cost of minor reinstatement
to damaged plaster and rendering around the window is included.
Occasionally, when
existing windows are removed, it becomes apparent that large areas of
the wall plaster or external rendering is "tired" and needs
to be replaced. If this should be the case then there may be some additional
cost. No additional work would be undertaken and no cost incurred without
first seeking your approval.
Decoration
New and newly restored windows need to be decorated with good quality
paint if they are to last and function well for a long period of time.
We start the
process properly by ensuring that all joinery that we make is treated
in our workshops with wood preservative and primer.
It is important that
once we have finished our installation work that either you or your decorator
completes the decoration of the windows within 2 months. If you do not
know a local decorator we can recommend one to you.
Guarantees
We guarantee all windows that we make for 10 years against any defect
caused by poor workmanship or materials. We also guarantee the windows
against rot for 10 years provided they are redecorated every 4 years using
a good quality paint system. The guarantee is given in addition to your
statutory rights.
Building
Regulations
The building regulations were changed in April 2002 in order to make sure
that all new windows comply with enhanced standards of thermal insulation
(protection of the ozone layer). If you are fitting a timber window it
needs to achieve a U value of 2. In simple terms this usually means that
you have to have double-glazed sashes that are 24mm wide overall (2 panes
of 4mm glass with a 16mm gap. To include one pane of low e glass ). There
are exceptions, particularly if you live in a listed building, but you
need to be aware of this issue as it could create a problem when you try
and sell your property later on.
Planning
Permission
If you live in a flat or a maisonette you will almost certainly need planning
permission if you want to change a window. If you live in an old house
you may well be in a conservation area. Even if you don't think you need
planning permission it is always best to check.
If you would like
help dealing with planning or building control issues we are happy to
manage this for you.
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