A Summary Of Woes And Answers For The Plague Of Plastic Windows In London
May 8, 2010 by: Archie CampbellThe plague of plastic windows in London seems to be more of a scourge on the beauty of once-proud manses of eras gone by. Anyone can see that cheap plastic windows do NOT fit in with the majestic, and occasionally creepy, gargoyles that flourish on the rooftops of many Victorian buildings.
Here are some details on why many Londoners are battening down their wallets, and opting for plastic frames for their majestic homes – along with some alternative materials and tips that work with the original windows – so they can stay with the house like they’re meant to:
Consumers are told by companies that make – and therefore promote – double glazing, that the windows are an altogether better deal as far as buying and replacing goes. The aged wood on the beautiful wooden sash windows are more complicated due to their intricate craftsmanship, and are therefore, notorious for sporting a hefty price tag when they require repairs.
Even though historical conservationists are quick to point out that having the wood frames repaired instead of trading them in for cheaper quality, actually saves a person more money in the long run, most home owners are still taking the advice of the double glazing businesses, and purchasing the plastic product – preferring to deal with unexpected replacements when they happen.
In addition, environmental committees are extolling the virtues of double glazing in stopping carbon emission leaks from inside heat that can get through openings between the frames and wall, and further pollute the air.
However, historical societies, who are lobbying for the return of antique wood sashes to the homes, have named several cost-effective alternatives for weather and emission proofing that work just like double glazing – and can be used in conjunction with the original frames. One way is to draught-strip the edges of the frames with brush stripping to create a seal. And for those who say that’s too expensive – tubes of rubber or silicone are available at a very affordable price, and do the same thing.
Another good way to seal and proof is to install shutters that completely cover the windows. If you can’t afford them, you can substitute some very heavy curtains to drape over the windows instead, and this does wonders in containing the heat to the house – as long as the windows remain completely closed. And still another workable choice is an actual secondary glaze – provided by a unit on the inside window – that performs like double glazing.
So there are some of the arguments for – and against – the plague of plastic windows in London these days. Although it’s easy to see the story does, indeed, have two sides – both are sure to agree that one common solution needs to be found that allows for continued use of those fine old windows, AND affordable protection to both the home, and the outside environment.
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