Over time, wooden windows are susceptible to rot, decay and general wear and tear. Sash windows are no different. But that doesn’t mean you need to replace your beautiful original features. Far from it.
With a professional sash window refurbishment, you can restore the character of your fixtures and add value to your home in the process. However, even for the most impressive properties, cost is always a factor.
In this post, we will take a look at the factors that contribute to the cost of sash window refurbishment – from the type of repairs to the quality of the job. We will also discuss why a full refurbishment might not be the best option for you.
Consulting the experts
Before starting any project, it’s important that you first receive a consultation or survey from an expert surveyor. This allows you to gauge the size and type of work you need to repair and refurbish your sash windows.
The survey will take into consideration the age, style and type of window you have in your property. Once the windows have been assessed, your surveyor can explain your options and inform you of the best plan going forward. Experts will also be able to provide an estimated cost, which is tailored to your specific needs.
Restoration over replacement
Sash windows are a beautiful original feature in many older, period properties. Over time, however, windows can become run down in both function and appearance, because of wear and tear, extreme weather conditions and previous shoddy workmanship.
Signs of specific damage may be hard to pinpoint, which often leads to people replacing the full window and frame. As you can imagine, this can be an extremely costly job – not only causing major disruption, but also taking away from the character and heritage of your property.
We believe sash windows are worth saving. Instead of a full replacement, a professional window expert can identify and remedy the problem – restoring sash windows to their former glory.
What is involved in a full refurbishment?
For many homeowners, the primary question is: what is actually involved in a window restoration project? From a single sash window on a private property to multiple windows on a listed building, the amount of restoration work you require may vary. This could include a combination of services such as repairs, restoration, draught-proofing and painting.
Naturally, the price may also change depending on what supplies and expertise you require.
Sash window repairs
Sash windows are complex structures, which require expert craftsmanship to restore and refurbish. The repairs required on these windows come in all shapes and sizes – from internal condensation to rot and decay.
To rectify these problems, experts can repair the bottom rail, the window frame or the construction joint tearing. If the damage is too far gone, individual parts can even be replaced with a new, hardwood section that is in keeping with the aesthetic. This is a far more cost-effective option than full window replacements.
When making crucial repairs, it’s important to combine modern materials with traditional carpentry skills to get the best possible results for your money. If quality materials aren’t used, you risk windows becoming damaged and decayed again, sooner rather than later.
Draught proofing
When deciding if your sash windows need a complete overhaul, it’s important to take their functionality into consideration. One way to avoid replacement and improve the practicality of your windows is with draught sealing.
This process uses modern methods to achieve up to 80% of the energy performance of a double-glazed unit. Fully-sealed windows prevent future damage from occurring and help eliminate draughts, adding longevity to the windows in your property.
Painting
Another factor to consider when weighing up the cost of refurbishment is painting. Whilst the wood itself may seem the like the main issue, layers of old paint can actually cause serious problems for sash windows. When it builds up, old paint can restrict the movement of the sash. It can even cause sashed to stick shut when poorly applied. This prevents the window from working and takes away the benefits of draught proofing.
These problems can be rectified by expert craftsmen, who can either strip the paint or remove timber from the sides of the sash to increase the space. Decorators can then use high quality paints to ensure your windows look good as new, whilst in keeping with your specific style.
Save money with repairs
Once repairs have been made, the immediate benefit is having beautifully restored windows. However, the positives don’t stop there. Whilst the costs of full replacements can be steep, more manageable repairs have a long list of benefits, including:
Reduce noise & draughts
Noise pollution from busy streets, construction sites and loud neighbours can cause quite the headache for property owners. Using industry-leading materials for repairs, such as noise reduction glass, you can improve the noise and heat insulation in your home.
Lower energy bills
By restoring the functionality to your sash windows, you can also improve the energy efficiency in your property. Removing draughts means you no longer have to rely on artificial heating during the colder months. This can save you money by lowering your heating and energy bills.
Add value to your home
Restoring original features, such as sash windows, can add significant value to your home. That’s not just because of their sought after appearance. Sash window refurbishment can improve functionality, removing draughts to improve your property’s energy rating, for instance.
Talk to the experts at Fortis & Hooke
Whether you’re a private homeowner or a building manager for listed properties, the experts at Fortis & Hooke provide cost-effective, long-lasting sash window repairs.
Our team have a passion for refurbishment, avoiding costly replacements wherever possible. By using the latest modern materials and traditional carpentry expertise, we complete all the necessary work to restore your windows to their original, beautiful best. To find out more or arrange a free consultation, get in touch with our friendly team today on 0800 313 4688 or info@fortishooke.co.uk.