If you live in an older house with sash windows it's sort of a mixed blessing. The windows may be beautiful and since they have been around for decades (or centuries) they are no doubt steeped in tradition and character. But they are also old and have probably lost some of their efficiency and functionality. With new advancements, however, it's become amazingly easy to reduce your carbon foot print with sash window draught proofing.
Many owners of older homes have received advertisements from residential window replacement companies touting the wonderful qualities of the new, hi-tech windows on the market. Their job is to try to convince you to replace your 'old, inefficient, non-functioning' windows for their low-E, thermo-paned, gas filled, vinyl-framed units to 'up-grade your home and increase energy efficiency'. Your job is to not fall for their line.
The fact of the matter is, your windows are worth saving at almost any cost. When facing the choice of whether to repair or replace, the best advice on older windows is to repair if at all possible. It is easier to do and the results will be more pleasing to the eye and to the wallet.
Your older windows were built to last as long as the house and the house has not fallen down yet, right? But if they are old they are also tired and worn and they need some attention to get back into form. Your windows may have never worked for you the way they were meant to work but they can with some proper maintenance.
It could be something as simple as scraping away a few dozen coats of paint. More likely the sash cords need to be replaced or the counter-weights are out of balance. The single most beneficial thing you can do for your windows, however, is to draught-proof them.
It is easy and cost-effective to reduce your carbon foot print with sash window draught proofing. Not only will a proper job stop the draughts but it will also minimize dust and noise. It will even help eliminate rattling of the panes. It will help the heat stay in during winter and stay out during summer. It's a very sound strategy.
Many owners of older homes have received advertisements from residential window replacement companies touting the wonderful qualities of the new, hi-tech windows on the market. Their job is to try to convince you to replace your 'old, inefficient, non-functioning' windows for their low-E, thermo-paned, gas filled, vinyl-framed units to 'up-grade your home and increase energy efficiency'. Your job is to not fall for their line.
The fact of the matter is, your windows are worth saving at almost any cost. When facing the choice of whether to repair or replace, the best advice on older windows is to repair if at all possible. It is easier to do and the results will be more pleasing to the eye and to the wallet.
Your older windows were built to last as long as the house and the house has not fallen down yet, right? But if they are old they are also tired and worn and they need some attention to get back into form. Your windows may have never worked for you the way they were meant to work but they can with some proper maintenance.
It could be something as simple as scraping away a few dozen coats of paint. More likely the sash cords need to be replaced or the counter-weights are out of balance. The single most beneficial thing you can do for your windows, however, is to draught-proof them.
It is easy and cost-effective to reduce your carbon foot print with sash window draught proofing. Not only will a proper job stop the draughts but it will also minimize dust and noise. It will even help eliminate rattling of the panes. It will help the heat stay in during winter and stay out during summer. It's a very sound strategy.
About the Author:
Sash window repairs London experts complete make your older home more energy efficient and attractive. A sash window renovation is a good choice when upgrading your home or business structure.
