Did you know you can repair, restore and upgrade old timber windows?
In Scotland, many people are fortunate to live in period homes or tenements. Almost all of these homes have beautiful timber-framed sash and case windows or casement windows. Some will have ornate timber designs and others will feature some stained-glass. What they do have in common is that they are becoming very old and with old ages comes some wear and tear issues.
There are many reasons you may be looking at your large bay windows, thinking that you need to buy new windows but aren't looking forward to the expense. The most likely reason that you want new windows is because they are draughty and it is becoming too expensive to heat your home. Perhaps the timber has gaps or damaged sections that let in cold air and water. Or maybe the glazing is so thin that it ices up in the winter leaving your room feeling even colder.
But did you know that is nearly always possible to repair these windows at a far less cost than replacing them. The glazing can even be upgraded to double glazing!
Benefits of Repairing and Upgrading Old Timber Windows
1. Cost
You can save a lot of money by repairing your windows and then maintaining them rather than replacing them for new windows. A good window company will offer a range of services including replacing small parts of damaged wood, adding draught proofing, replacing sash cord and painting the timber.
2. Aesthetics
Old buildings were built by craftsmen and the windows were crafted to suit the aesthetics of the building. You could actually decrease the value of your property by replacing them with cheaper uPVC windows. By repairing the original windows, your home will stand out.
3. Energy-Efficiency
As one of the main triggers for replacing old windows is to feel warmer and to reduce heating bills, please consider what wooden framed windows offer. Timber is a naturally thermally efficient material, keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Once any gaps are repaired the timber will continue to do it's job well. You can increase the energy-efficiency by installing new slimline double glazing units into the timber frames or adding secondary glazing.
4. Environmental Considerations
Why cut down more trees if not required? Or buy a plastic product at a time when we should be thinking more about the environment? By repairing your windows, you are being more environmentally friendly.
So before you pay for new expensive windows, we highly recommend investigating if your windows can be repaired. Even if you buy new timber windows, the timber will never be as high quality as old timber that was slow grown. In Edinburgh, Eco Sash & Case are timber window specialists.
