The traditional 'cord and balance' mechanism feature, which ensures the sliding sash stays in position when the window is raised, can deteriorate and prove a difficult item to replace. And, of course, virtually all timber windows are painted or stained and require periodic maintenance...stripping, filling, sanding, priming, re-painting.
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. |