How to Restore Your Original Windows | Glaze & Save

Replacing sash windows not only affects the look and character of your building, it is also extremely expensive and potentially damaging to the structural integrity of the building itself.

On top of this, replacing original sash windows can be incredibly wasteful. The high-quality wood that forms the basis of original timber windows is extremely hard to come by these days, meaning that the replacement and eventual discarding of these frames would be an unnecessary waste.

Not only that, but plastic double glazing tends to only have a useful life of around twenty years or so. After this they often end up as landfill, consuming vast amounts of energy in their production to become waste. As we enter an era of ever-scarcer resources and climate uncertainty, reducing waste and energy consumption is of paramount importance.

There are three different options for original sash and case, and single glaze windows.

3 Steps to Perfect Windows

Restoration

The first option is to restore the windows. This involves 1) the replacement or repair any damaged wood in the windows; 2) ensuring that the windows are fully operational and able to open and close, removing, weighing and cleaning the windows, while allowing for cleaning access; and 3) to replace and restore any ironmongery on the frames. Most restoration companies only restore the windows, they do not paint them.

Draughtproofing

The second option is to draughtproof the windows. This involves removing the windows and mitring out a channel around all surfaces of the window, before putting in a draughtproofing brush; then putting the windows back in place and affixing optional beading around the existing window. This is quite an invasive process. It can weaken the base of the window as it involves putting in dowels, and over a relatively short number of years this can make the lower sill weaken and come away.

The second option is to add InvisiSeal™. InvisiSeal™ is a liquid draughtproofing product that dries like rubber, creating an airtight seal around your windows and doors. It’s a non-invasive process which involves no screws or nails, keeping your window frame fully intact and strengthened. This allows you to fully open and close the windows while enjoying the benefits of draughtproofing.

Thermal Efficiency

The third part is to make your windows thermally efficient; this means that the whole window area becomes thermally efficient and repels heat back into the room in the same way that the other surfaces in the room will. There are many different options. The first option is to remove the single glazing and replace it with double glazing; however this must be used with some form of draughtproofing. The second option would be to retain your original windows and install secondary glazing.

1. Restoration

Paint Removal

Over time, a build-up of paint can just your windows to become stiff, or even make it impossible to open your windows at all. By removing the many layers of paint, your windows can experience a new lease of life. Equally, cracked and flaky paints and finishes can cause the wood of windows to become exposed to the elements. By restoring the paintwork, you windows will have a protective finish that ensures they last for years to come.

Cord Replacement

Sash windows are counter balanced with two pairs of weights which run over a pulley system. Over time, the cord that supports these weights can become weakened, or even snap entirely. A weakened or snapped cord will make it difficult to open and close your windows. Replacement of the cord allows your windows to move freely once more.

Repair/Replacement of Rotten Wood

Original windows are features that add period charm to your property. The downside to this is that the original wood can become rotten or otherwise comprised. A thorough restoration service will delicately and sympathetically repair and replace areas of rotten frame, ensuring your window stands the test of time. From time to time, this may include the replacement of the entire window frame, although this is often a last resort.

Ironmongery

The final element of your window restoration is the installation of elegant yet practical ironmongery in keeping with the look of your windows. Standard finishes tend to be in brass or polished chrome. This step can really enhance the finish of your window restoration. However, be aware that some companies will remove your original ironmongery and replace it with shiny new ironmongery: always inform your window restorers if you wish to retain your original ironmongery.

Window Restoration Specialists

There are many window restoration companies out there, so how do you know who to trust? As bespoke magnetic secondary glazing experts, we often come across the work of window restoration companies. The consistency of work and professionalism across the board can vary wildly. We’d always recommend that you obtain testimonials, or better yet, personal referrals.

2. Draught-proofing

Restoration of your original widows is not just about mending your existing windows. Certain additions can be retrofitted to your original windows in order to increase their efficiency, and your comfort. Draughtproofing is one of the most important aspects of the window enhancement process.

Draught-proofing Brushes

Draught-proofing brush strips can be added during your window restoration in order to fill the gaps that surround your windows. These lasting brushes ensure that your windows are sealed while still allowing for adequate ventilation. Adding draught-proofing to your windows and doors can save up to £50 per year; not surprising when you consider that the gaps around your sash windows can be the equivalent of an opening measuring a minimum of ten inches.

InvisiSeal™

InvisiSeal™ is a patented permanent liquid draught excluder exclusive to Glaze & Save. For doors and windows, made from a tough, flexible silicone, InvisiSeal™ protects like silicone with all of the durability and flexibility of rubber. Typically reduces draughts by over 50%. Reduces energy bills by up to 20%.

3. Thermal Efficiency

While window films and draught-proofing brushes are excellent at reducing draughts from your windows, the overall energy efficiency of your windows will remain unchanged. For example, if you have original single glazing, you can expect the U-values of your windows to remain at around 5.5. This means that you could be losing heat up to 16 times faster through your window than through your walls. To tackle the U-value of your windows, while addressing a host of other issues such as condensation or fading, it pays to look into further glazing options that you can add to your windows.

Window Films

Window film can be the ideal inexpensive solution to temporarily enhance the thermal efficiency of your home. Window films can come in a variety of finishes, many with exceptional thermal properties. InvisiFilm™, our convenient and discrete window film, is a stylish alternative to net curtains or patterned glass. Combating a host of window-related issues, whether you require extra solar protection, to changing up those net curtains, InvisiFilm™ can offer up a solution.

Secondary Glazing

Secondary glazing involves installing supplementary glazing on the inside of an existing single-glazed window.

Unfortunately, traditional secondary glazing is expensive giving a long payback time; it uses screws and there is a requirement to redecorate after installation. Ugly, plastic frames go yellow over time and are not always compatible with listed buildings or conservation areas. It can also be potentially hazardous, as the plastic frame become brittle over time, placing the glass in a precarious position. It also ultimately damages the window frame and surrounding area, making it bulky and unsightly.

You can maintain the look and character of your windows by choosing a secondary glazing option which is virtually invisible whilst given all of the benefits (and more) of double glazing. Bespoke magnetic secondary glazing InvisiTherm from Glaze & Save is an innovative polycarbonate solution that reduces heat loss, noise pollution, eliminates fading, draughts and condensation with a guaranteed payback and energy bill reduction of 22.5%.