It is no wonder that the vertical sliding sash window has
remained a favourite design with builders and homeowners for
centuries. Unfortunately the traditional timber sliding sash
window brings a number of problems.
First, the ravages of the British climate can cause timber
to twist or warp, leading to windows "sticking",
becoming difficult to open and close or, when the winds blow,
the sashes rattle in the frame creating a draughty nuisance.
Second, the traditional `weights, cord and pulleys' mechanism,
which ensures the sliding sash stays in position when the
window is raised, can deteriorate and prove expensive to replace.
And, virtually all timber windows are painted or stained
and require periodic maintenance ... stripping, filling, sanding,
priming, re-painting.
Choice
So it was no surprise that many saw the replacement of timber
sliding sash windows with new PVC-u versions as an easy choice.
But, frankly, these `first generation' PVC-u windows failed
to match the aesthetic beauty of the traditional window. The
frames appeared `clumsy' compared to the elegant sightlines
of period designs.
Yet, one leading British quality window systems company persevered.
It took the latest computer aided 3D design systems, plus
considerable investment to achieve the necessary combination
of a slim, but strong and durable, frame.
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