Timber Windows

Timber Windows in UK Homes - What to Look for in Replacement Sash Windows

Buying replacement timber windows is a major expense for most UK homeowners. If your windows let in drafts, dirt or outside noise, your home might be a good candidate for wood replacement windows. Other reasons you might want to consider timber replacement windows are that your current windows stick; don't open properly and aren't secure. Here's some information about quality timber sash windows.

Look for Accreditation

Many manufacturers of timber frame windows subscribe to trade associations and independent entities that test and certify their products. An example would be the TRADA Q-Mark High Performance Timber Window Scheme. In order to earn a TRADA Q-Mark certification, a window product undergoes stringent testing on an annual basis. There's even a certification for window manufacturing plants available under ISO9001:2001. So, when considering a specific brand of uk timber windows, be sure to ascertain that they carry these or other certifications or accreditations.

Environmental Concerns

First and foremost, quality timber windows should have an energy-saving design that's environmentally sound. For example, if the panes are double-glazed, it's better to fill the space between them with argon gas rather than air. The glass itself should be low E, which means that it has an ultra-thin metallic coating that reflects heated or cooled air back to its source, rather than allowing it to dissipate. Look for windows with a low u-value. U-value measures how much heat will escape through a material. In other words, the higher the U-value, the poorer an insulator a material is. Single glazed windows have a U-value that approaches 6.0 while double glazed windows have a U-value of about 3.0. In addition, some timber windows and doors receive accreditation from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and may be endorsed by organizations like Green Peace and/or the World Wildlife Fund.

Construction Details

The best wooden windows are made using a combination of modern techniques with traditional craftsmanship. For example, the old-fashioned cord-and-weight system that assists in opening the window has been replaced with a more efficient counterbalance system that not only assists in opening and closing, but also prevents the window from jamming or slipping. The wood used in some timber frame windows what's called "engineered," meaning that it's a wood product made by gluing wood fibers together under pressure and heat. Also called fiberboard, this product is generally more affordable than solid wood while being highly durable. Finishes are also high-tech, sometimes involving a four-step process with a hard, clear finish coat. For security, wood windows can be fitted with keyed locks. Another available security feature is an installed stop that limits how much a window can be opened. The best timber windows conform to the BS7950 standard for "enhanced security performance. Finally, quality timber sash windows should be designed to withstand harsh weather conditions while retaining an attractive appearance.

For UK homeowners looking for a traditional look with modern features, engineered timber windows are an excellent choice.

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