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For those of you who don’t know about it, a sash window is a kind of window comprised of movable sashes or panels. If there is a frame that holds a few panes of glass together, it is a sash window. Quite often narrow muntins separate the panes.
A few kinds of sash windows exist. Some sash windows have panels that open to the outside; others have panels that slide to open – either horizontally or vertically. The sliding sash windows sometimes are referred to as sliding sash, case, sash or Yorkshire light windows.
The American-style sash window is a traditional variation that has two sashes, one of which rests on top of the other within a frame. This sash window operates with an up-and-down sliding motion. One of the benefits of this window is the ability to remove or tilt the sashes in order to clean them. There are many different configurations, models and shapes to choose from within this class of sash window.
Sash windows were first used in England during the 1670s. Ham House is a famous early house that had sash windows. Robert Hooke is credited with creating the sash window, although there isn’t any conclusive evidence that proves this.
Sash windows are frequently installed in Victorian and Georgian homes. There are two panes up and three panes across in classic sash windows, providing homeowners with six-over-six panel windows. The standard size of sash windows is four feet wide; however, wooden sash can fit almost any size and there is no fixed rule.
In order for sash windows to function, there is panel that is balanced through using a counter-weight made of heavy steel or another material hidden within the window frame.
Usually sash windows are made out of single glazed glass and soft wood, although sometimes double glazed glass is used.
Sash windows are prone to more issues than other window types due to their sliding-motion operation. They require a lot of maintenance as well; however, the extra work involved is worth it since sash windows are very attractive.
In addition to being very attractive, there is another significant advantage that sash windows offer compared to regular windows- they’re more efficient when it comes to cooling a home’s interior when the weather is warm. This is due to the design of the sash window, since it can be opened at the bottom and at the top simultaneously. The room’s warm air is allowed to escape through the top opening, while cool air coming from outdoors is allowed in through the bottom opening.
A new kind of sash window was released recently into the marketplace. They are called uPVC sash windows, and they are attractive like regular sash windows are but are much more energy efficient and don’t require as much as maintenance and painting on a regular basis.
When you decide to give sash windows a try, be careful not to go with the first window installer you find. Make sure to get work samples and quotes from thee different companies at least before you make your final decision on which company you want to have install your new windows.