Sash windows have been around for centuries and have remained popular to this day because of their aesthetic appeal. They are made up of two wooden panels containing glass inserts. One or both of the panels or frames is able to move, usually vertically, to open or close the window. The weights for this action are hidden in what is known as a Yorkshire light and the earliest example can be seen in Vermeers painting of The Milk Maid, dated 1658.
Ham House, a beautiful old stately home located in England has the earliest known example of sash windows and dates back to 1670. A typical sash window consisted of three horizontal panels of glass set with two vertical panels of glass, creating a horizontal frame that was very typical for the period. Other configurations became widely accepted but this is still the traditional standard.
The typical standard for sash windows in early Georgian and Victorian houses measured about four feet in width and they can be opened vertically as the window slides on two runners set into the frame of the window.
This was done to ensure that the window stayed in position even in very windy or stormy weather. The weights inside the frame were constructed of steel or lead and were balanced perfectly to ensure easy window operation. Two types of sash window are in use today. Double hung sash windows have two moveable panels.
The first was the double hung sash, meaning that both frames could be moved into the open or closed position. The single hung sash frame had one part of its frame permanently anchored while the other was capable of opening or closing. The double hung version is ideal for encouraging good air flow.
Most traditional sash windows are constructed from soft woods and the glass panes are either single or double glazed. Although very beautiful, sash windows are relatively high maintenance. The soft wood is prone to rot and needs regular painting and maintenance of the mechanism. If left untreated the wood can warp or shrink, causing the frames to rattle in bad weather or to stick as they no longer fit properly. Poorly applied paint can also lead to opening problems.
If you are committed to installing them and are prepared to regularly maintain them, you are ensured of having beautiful functional windows that will last many years. Due to their design they are very effective at encouraging air circulation in a room. When both panels are opened equidistant from the frames, air flow is encouraged, drawing cool air in through the bottom of the frame and expelling hot air out of the top.
Sash windows are windows that are beautifully decorated. If you’re interested, you need to check into the sash window company. Sash window restoration London will help you with your window fixed.
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