Wooden window frames have a natural beauty that is hard to be matched, even if manufacturers produce such products as woodgrain uPVC in an effort to persuade homeowners that they can have the best of both worlds.  Other advantages windows such as timber sash windows include the fact that they can have a much longer life than uPVC windows, are stronger in the framework and are more suited in buildings that are of interest architecturally.

However before you select any window you will want to consider their safety features and this also applies to a timber sash window.  There are various safety features that can be incorporated into double glazed timber sash windows and if you are interested in windows from a manufacturing company you can insist on these features being included.

Safety Window Stays: These ensure that a window that is opened accidently or if the person opening the window loses his grip, then the window will not open more than 45 degrees.  This is important as it helps prevent injury if a heavy window opens suddenly.

Window Cam Catches: In addition to sash window locks these help prevent a potential intruder from gaining access through the window.  Cam catches have been developed to a high degree and can be obtained for use by both persons who are left or right handed.  As a high percentage of home burglaries are perpetrated through accessible windows, it is important that these security features are considered for your sash timber windows.  These catches can be used on traditional sash windows or on timber sliding sash windows also.

Limit Stops: These are a very important safety feature and are especially appropriate for rooms that children may occupy unattended, such as their bedroom.  They comprise small and unobtrusive stops that will not allow the window to be opened more than a certain distance, perhaps 100mm.  It is important that not all of the windows in the home are set up in this manner as there has to be escape routes from the home in the event of an emergency.

If you are considering purchasing sash timber windows, ensure that the above safety and security features are built into the particular windows that you are interested in.  If they are not listed in the quotation discuss the matter with the manufacturers and see if they will include the omitted features.  However if you are looking at quality timber sash windows, then it would be surprising if these features are not already listed.

Related posts:

1. Replacing Original Double Glazed Sash Windows
2. The Advantage Of uPVC Sash Windows.
3. Replacement Sash Windows Come Of Age.

These new windows that are vertical uPVC sash windows look like they have wooden window frames and act in the same manner as vertical timber sash windows have always acted.  By integrating the traditional design with modern technology the manufacturers have created a window that will pass as a timber window and yet has the maintenance-free attributes of a uPVC sliding sash window.

uPVC or vinyl windows have always had the advantage of not requiring painting every 5 – 7 years, which is in contrast to their timber counterparts.  Having to re-paint windows has always been an issue that owners of homes with sash windows have always found irksome, as sash windows are particularly tricky to paint, given the fact that they often have 6 over 6 panes of glass and an inordinate amount of framework.  In addition to this uPVC  double glazing window frames simply need a wipe down with a soft cloth in order to look fresh and very little further maintenance is required apart form some light lubrication of moving parts.

An Elegant uPVC Sash Window

While uPVC sliding sash windows look as if they operate the same as  traditional sash windows, they have the added advantage of being able to tilt inwards and this helps the homeowners to clean the glazing without overstretching and putting themselves in danger.

Security in uPVC double glazed windows is on the whole much improved in uPVC sash windows also.  In addition to traditional sash window locks, quality uPVC windows have multi point locking systems built into the frames, which makes it much more difficult for an intruder to gain access via the windows of the home.  Old timber sash windows in the main had simple window locks that were and are easy to force.  As a rule uPVC double glazed sash windows will have tougher glazing, usually double or triple glazed, and this is difficult to break also, without creating a lot of disturbance.

Since the introduction of uPVC windows, many different styles have been brought into production and it is quite easy for a homeowner to   find a sash window style that compliments their home and other existing glazing such as in an existing conservatory.  The range of colors that is available for other styles of sash windows is also available for uPVC double glazed sash windows and these include wood grain effects.

The best place to commence your search for uPVC sash windows is online, as it offers the greatest range for you to choose from, all from the comfort of your own home.  Compare prices and the different features available, check out the ‘R-value’ of different window units  (their resistance to heat loss) and take shipping costs into consideration before you confirm your purchase.  Get several quotes for your new windows and do not be rushed into making a decision.  uPVC window  prices are usually very competitive and with some research you should be able to find cheap upvc windows that are of excellent quality.

For many homeowners who have been frustrated with a lack of development in regard to uPVC sash windows, the wait may be over.  They can now look forward to a highly insulated window product, which requires little maintenance, but which retains the traditional elegant style of their present timber sash windows.  uPVC sash windows are here to stay!

Related posts:

1. Replacing Original Double Glazed Sash Windows
2. Timber Sash Windows With Safety Features
3. Replacement Sash Windows Come Of Age.

Now many manufacturers such as Marvin Windows, Anderson Windows and Senator Windows and Munster Joinery, to name but a few, are huge players in the business markets and produce many different types and styles of windows, that home owners can install themselves if they wish.

However, as many environmental questions hang over the issue of uPVC production, there are disadvantages to uPVC windows and as the timber window manufacturers have started a spirited fightback,  the pros and cons of each are being debated with renewed vigour.

• With regard to the life span of the products, both camps make claims for victory, with the uPVC window suppliers claiming that 25 years is a good life span with minimum maintenance and the manufacturers of timber windows saying that given the improvement in timber protection products (not environmentally friendly by the way), that timber windows, with proper care and attention could have a much longer lifespan that their counterparts.
• The  wooden window frames fan club, The WWFC, ( just kidding!), claim that whereas a handyman can and will carry out repairs to a wooden  window frame, the same cannot be said for the complicated moulded and sealed system that is employed in the manufacture of uPVC windows.  If your uPVC window frame or locking system breaks, call the installer.  An added point to this is that in the event of a break in to your home, the damage that may be done to your uPVC window frame may be impossible to repair.
• It is a law of nature that all products deteoriate over a period of time.  In several years, when your timber windows lose their lustre, or when you get sick and tired of that fashionable pink colour you painted them, you need only grab your paint scraper and wirebrush and clean them down and repaint them.  With uPVC windows however, you cannot do this.  In fact, you can do very little, besides keep them clean.  Manufacturers of uPVC windows say exactly, and that is why so many of their customers are happy – there is little upkeep and maintenance involved, and little temptation to change the look.

• The Environment:  Timber is a renewable and a sustainable resource.  Here the uPVC camp are on to a loser, as uPVC is a non-natural resource which create toxic products during production and which cannot be easily disposed of.  The argument being put forward by those in favour of timber window installation is that to install a timber window frame is to help reduce your carbon footprint.
• Many Planning Authorities are raising question marks with regard to the over use of uPVC sash windows in older residential estates and in character buildings.  The manufacturers of uPVC windows say that they, in turn, have made huge inroads into providing a wide range of finishes to their product and that often quality made uPVC windows sashes are indistinguishable from timber sash windows for example.

In this article we have not even started to talk about the possible benefits or disadvantages to an aluminum window!  If you want to find out more about either uPVC, aluminum or wooden window frames and want to narrow down your search to a certain geographical location, then you can do an online search under the heading ‘wooden window frames U.K.’ or Ireland depending on which country you wish to get results from.

Related posts:

1. The Advantage Of uPVC Sash Windows.
2. Cleaning uPVC Doors And Windows.
3. The Advantages of Installing uPVC Windows

• A uPVC window gives you very good insulation around the frame and employs the usage of thermal breaks. A uPVC window frame helps to keep cold out during the winter and conversely keeps the property cooler in the hotter months of the year, more important if you are living in an area which is affected by such extremes.  An obvious advantage to this, apart from your personal comfort, is the savings you can make in your heating and cooling bills by having uPVC window frames and glazing fitted.
  

  The Series 2900 New Construction Single Hung Window (click on image for details)

• The excellent seals and aforementioned insulation present in uPVC windows means that dust particles and pollen are kept to a minimum in a building.  At high pollen times, hay fever sufferers will be thankful for the extra protection that they receive from this reduction of external allergens entering the home or office .
• During the life span of these windows, very little maintenance is required.  Of course they will look better with the odd wipe or wash to the window frames, but there should be no painting or weather-proofing required.
• Most uPVC window handles are durable and are of excellent quality and upvc windows have a very secure multi-point locking system, which gives a building more security than traditional types of window clasps such as old style, sash window locks for example. It is also very difficult to break through a uPVC frame.  If you are going to undertake security measures such as installing security cameras, or even fake security cameras and a house alarm, having double glazing and good quality multi-point locks in your windows certainly also helps.
• Cost is always a factor when installing such features as windows, doors, guttering, etc.  uPVC is well up there in the cost effectiveness stakes and this means that for a lot of people, cheap uPVC windows will be given serious consideration.  An alternative to both a timber and uPVC  type window with regard to cost effectiveness could be an aluminum window.
• Consumers worry about gas furnace prices when really they should be worried about the cost of their gas bills when their windows are not sealed properly and heat escapes through them.
• As well as keeping heat in and cold out, uPVC windows keep out a lot of sound also.  This is why they are often preferred in locations where sound suppression is of a high priority, for example, close to a motorway or busy road, train track, etc.
• Production of uPVC doors and windows has come a long way from the choices of colours that were available, namely white or white.  They are now available in many different colours, and in addition can be finished in wood lookalike styles with a wood-grain feel, they can also be manufactured with a different colour on the outside to the inside – in short, almost anything is possible!  you can put uPVC windows in most any building.  We have seen plenty of log home builders using these windows for their insulation properties.
• In many cases customers want a product that has the traditional look and style of wooden window frames but with modern operating technology, so products such such as uPVC windows, modern cast iron radiators other quality products and will always be in demand with consumers.

Related posts:

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2. The Advantage Of uPVC Sash Windows.
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• In broad general terms, any part of the uPVC double glazed window that is visible when the windows are closed should receive a wash twice yearly.  This can be done with a warm soapy solution, taking care not to use abrasive materials such as scouring pads, or abrasive cleaning solutions such as ammonia based cleansers. It is always a good idea to remove such items as jewellery and watches, before commencing cleaning work on uPVC double glazed windows as this avoids unnecessary damage (to the jewellery and to the windows!).
• here are also the options of installing windows with self-cleaning glass, such as ‘St. Gobain Bio Clean’ and ‘Pilkington Activ’.
  

  WD-40 Spray Applicator (click on image for details)

• When the windows are open, the remaining parts such as double glazed uPVC window locks, that you can then see should receive a wipe to remove dead insects, cobwebs, old oil or lubricants.  The use of a vacuum cleaner can be helpful in these situations.
• Always keep any drainage holes clear as this will ensure that any build up of condensation inside will be removed.

• All hinges and locking points should be kept clean.  This applies to uPVC double glazing windows and doors also. As with any metal moving mechanism, regular application of a light lubricant oil will help to keep these parts in good working order.  WD-40 spray is ideal for such tasks.  A light application of a product such as petroleum jelly to hinges and moving parts after lubrication will help ensure their protection.  Perhaps avoid heavier grease lubricants and avoid too much application that can result in grease oozing to the frames. It is always a good idea while cleaning to check the tightness of any visible screws at this time. Avoid getting grease or oil on curtains or window valances when you are carrying out this work.
• Clean the gaskets, weather strips and seals regularly with mild non-abrasive detergents.  While you are cleaning, inspect to ensure that all seals remain correctly fitted to the frames.  Many gaskets and seals can be removed and replaced without the complete removal of the window.  If seals or gaskets do need to be repaired, the task should probably be carried out by a trained maintenance person.
• If your frames of your windows suffer a small mark or scratch, repair kits can be available from upvc windows online suppliers, however it is best to avoid damage of the frames, as larger marks cannot be repaired.  Special care is needed if you are installing uPVC double glazed windows yourself.

Related posts:

1. Cleaning uPVC Doors And Windows.
2. Replacing Original Double Glazed Sash Windows
3. The Advantages of Installing uPVC Windows