Always opt for having traditional weights and cords rather than springs to counter balance the sashes
. Springs will not last giving you maintenance problems within 5 10 years. Occasionally different types of window openings will leave you with no option other than having springs. If you are having double glazed sash windows insist that putty is not used, timber beading should always be used to glaze double glazed units, along with good quality glazing silicone. Ensure that your new wood sash windows are fully draught excluded; this is an easy process to undertake while the windows are being manufactured, but much more difficult at a later date.
New ironmongery should be supplied with all windows. If your supplier is fitting these windows make sure to ask if the price includes for new internal wood architraves and nosing, also does the price include for any patching to damage or loose internal plasterwork once the window had been fitted. Some companies do not include for this which will leave you to pay for costly plaster work.
Once the windows have been fitted take a good look at the work which has been undertaken, if you have any concerns make up a snag list and go through this with your installer, always be sure to hold back the final payment until all fitting work has been fully checked and you are happy with your new sash windows.
Options before replacing Sash Windows
If you are thinking of having your sash windows replaced it certainly would be worth thinking about what options you have before hastily making a decision. Firstly are you going to replace your existing sash windows with Traditional wood sash replicas or are you contemplating using upvc plastic windows. If you decide to use plastic windows you will not be adding any value to your property and in most cases you will be devaluing your home. Plastic windows have not been around long, but early plastic and aluminums windows are already being replaced by homeowners even after just 10-20 years. Well maintained wood sash windows will last in excess of 60 years. If you currently have wood sash windows there are various options you have which will allow you to keep these traditional sash windows and also benefit from full draught excluding and double glazing. In most cases the existing window box surround can be renovated and brought back to life. Once renovated new draught excluded and double glazed sashes can be fitted into the existing surround, along with quality paint job and replacement ironmongery these windows will look like new, but most importantly add value to your home.
The cost of timber sash windows is more expensive but when they can last in excess of 60 years and add value to your property they are without doubt the most cost effective option available.