Monday, February 18, 2013

Strategies For Checking Sash Windows When Buying A House

By Andrew Brentford


Double hung sash windows can have a great look, but they also present poor thermal performance when compared with modern double glazed units. Therefore, when doing your purchase there are a few things you need to keep your eyes open for. This will ensure that you achieve good performance and have a more durable unit.

The main advice property agents should consider is whether the cords are still there by trying to pull them. If they are in a perfect condition, then you will notice some weight at its end. If you do not feel this, then you need to replace them. To repair them, you will have to remove the closing bid first. It is not a lot of work, but it can be quite fussy.

Open up the unit and confirm that it stays up firmly. If it slips down, then this is an indication that it was re-glazed with a glass that was thicker than the one used before. It is important for the initial weight to be maintained during home improvement in order to counter balance the unit. This problem should also be noted when you are making repairs and maintenance.

Check for any revealing signs of condensation. This is common with single-glazed than double-glazed units. Any problems need to be corrected early enough to avoid further compression. Any looseness may cause water or cold to pass through and hence reduce the efficiency of the unit. This means that you will spend more on energy.

Ensure the ironmongery is all present. You should test the unit if it is free running and has not been painted while shut. Poor maintenance may cause wooden windows to get loose and interfere with the catches. Be sure that they have not been adjusted using cardboard, lolly sticks, or any other solutions.

Have a look at the sill, the frame and the painting. You should be able to notice signs of decay as a result of poor maintenance. Jab a screwdriver or a key into the wood. If there is wet rot, then it will need to be cut out and replaced. Check out for metal L brackets on the edges and for scarfed-in pieces of timber.

Ensure the glazing is above 600 mm. Nowadays, there are safety requirements and the glass may be toughened as well, unlike in an old house. Experts strongly recommend that you add fall protection or change the pane. You can also adjust the requirements to suit your needs and taste, but remember to stick stay the federal guidelines.

Ensure that the glass has no cracks. Any damaged parts must be removed and replaced. You should also confirm whether the putty is fixed well. If you repair these areas, then you may have to do some DIY decorating on the external face. When replacing the units, you have to ensure that the local building regulations are followed.

Make sure that you have enough cash before you start repairing your sash windows. However, the cost of the maintenance will depend on the location and the size of the units. Therefore, you have to make sure that everything is in order before you procure your new house.




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