A Guide to Traditional Timber Sash Windows

If you are looking for an ageless design for new windows for your home, you might be considering traditional timber sash windows. Sash windows look right at home in properties ranging from stately period to modern residential, Victorian, Georgian, Regency or anything in-between. Thanks to our expertise, you get the help required to choose the perfect solution for your home. So, if you are thinking about installing sash windows in your home, check the following guide to find out more.

Throughout the guide, we are going to take a look at the following aspects:

·         How sash windows work

·         Why choose timber sash windows;

·         Sash window styles – Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian etc.;

·         Maintenance of sash windows.

How sash windows work

A typical window opens outwards by using a handle, unlocking the window, pushing and/or tilting the window open. However, the sash window differs in that it opens by sliding the whole of the window frame up or down to allow in the required ventilation.

It does this via a clever and innovative pulley system which includes a hidden sash weight within the window frame. This is not visible to the eye, so does not detract from the aesthetics.

Each of the panels of the sash window is split into panes; the amount of panes is dependent on the style of window chosen, for instance, Georgian or Victorian. However, regardless of the style, all sash windows work in exactly the same way.

To open the window and allow air into the room simply pull the whole of the window frame up and it will slide up. To close the window, just pull it down again.

Why choose timber sash windows?

There are many different types of window to choose from so why should you choose traditional timber sash windows?

Some of the many benefits of having timber windows are:

·         Wood is durable and long-lasting;

·         Timber offers a superb tactile effect that PVC cannot match;

·         Wood is a great insulator, therefore offering better thermal efficiency than plastic;

·         Timber window frames usually have a longer warranty than PVC;

·         Timber frames help to retain the value of a property or add more value than PVC;

·         Wood helps to retain the authentic and traditional details of your property;

·         Many types of finishes, stains and colours to choose;

·         Many different styles to choose from to ensure the perfect match for any period property;

·         More secure than PVC thanks to sash locks and stops;

·         Environmentally friendly;

·         Reduces noise by up to 45dB.

If you live in a period property and wish to replace old sash windows, it goes without saying you will want to retain the aesthetics and style of the property and traditional timber allows you to do just that.

Our specialists will provide advice about which timber is best for your windows with choices being such as pine, mahogany, oak, larch and more.

If living in a more modern property but love the timeless design of sash windows your options are more open thanks to a huge variety of paint and varnish colours, plus hardware choices.

Of course, one of the biggest advantages of choosing timber for sash windows is the environmental advantages. The timber we use for our windows comes from sustainably managed forests. This means less environmental impact.

Plus, did you know that you can timber-framed windows are not just single glazed? You can have sash windows in wood and benefit from having them double glazed to help keep the heat in and the noise out.

Sash window styles

Your new sash windows should reflect the era in which your property was built unless of course, you are installing the windows in a modern property and then the style is solely down to personal preference.

This type of window is made up of small panes of glass and astragal bars and the period of the property reflects the design, with the main eras being:

·         Georgian;

·         Victorian;

·         Edwardian;

·         Queen Anne Revival;

·         Venetian;

·         Regency/gothic.

In the Georgian property, the window panes will generally be in the style of six over six. However, some Georgian properties have been known to have larger windows with eight over eight panes.

The most popular styling during Victorian times was two over two panes. However, there were exceptions to this, including just single panes and/or side panes.

Six over two panes was a very popular type of style for sash windows during Edwardian times, but again, there were variations to the styling.

The Queen Anne Revival style was made up of many panes in the top sash with only one or a couple in the lower portion.

The Venetian style of windows consisted of a sliding sash in the centre with two fixed panes to the sides.

During the Regency and Gothic periods, sash windows featured arches and it was common to have sashes that slid horizontally instead of vertically.

Are timber sash windows high maintenance?

Being out in the elements, any window frames are going to require maintenance to keep them like new.

Unlike PVC window frames, traditional timber does not yellow with age, nor does it fade or discolour due to exposure to the elements. The beauty of timber is that it can quickly be brought back to its former glory with a new coat of stain or paint. Providing good quality paint or stain is used upon installation, you may not need to worry about maintaining them for between five to eight years.

Contact us for your traditional timber sash window installation

Green Home Glazing has many years of design, construction, architectural and environmental expertise to help you choose the perfect timber sash windows for your needs.

We offer a full service from start to finish, including obtaining approvals required on your behalf, something which is essential for a period or listed property renovation or repairs.

Give us a call on 0207 118 0388 or fill in our quick and easy online form, telling us what you require and one of our experts will get back to you to discuss your requirements.   

5 Kitchen Extension Ideas to Wow

Are you considering extending your kitchen to make it into the room of your dreams? If so, check out our five kitchen extension ideas to wow your relatives and friends and maximise your space.

1.    Bring the outside in with sliding doors

Why not bring the outside into your kitchen and dining area and one great way of doing so is with sliding doors. Sliding doors can be completely slid out of the way to open up the room fusing the outside and interior.

In the summer months, sliding doors can be slid open allowing plenty of fresh air into the room. During winter, they can be kept closed but plenty of light is filtered into the room and you still have a great view.

2.    Get more height with a pitched roof

If your ceilings are low, you might want to consider gaining more height by including a pitched roof in your kitchen extension design.

The pitched roof not only provides more height in the room, if you have skylights installed into it, ample light filters into your new kitchen.

3.    Go open plan

Why make just the kitchen larger? Have you considered going open plan and opening up the entire downstairs area?

By removing a wall and adding on a kitchen extension, you can create a light airy and modern look with the living room flowing effortlessly onto to the dining area and kitchen.

Meanwhile sliding doors and skylights will allow plenty of light into the room and bring the outdoors inside.

4.    Make the most of your garden or view

This is one of our great kitchen extension ideas for those lucky enough to have an exceptional view.

Most kitchens back onto the back garden but you might have an exceptional view, such as the ocean beyond to look onto.

Whether it’s your flowers and garden or crashing sea waves, you can make the most of the view from your new kitchen and dining area by incorporating sliding or bi-fold doors. You might also want to consider glass panels instead of a standard wall to make the most of that view.

5.    Have your own island

While you might not be able to afford to buy your very own tropical island, you can own an island. That is a kitchen island. Kitchen islands not only look great as a central point, but they also provide excellent additional work surfaces and can even be used as a breakfast bar.

Ask your architect and designer about having a kitchen island in your new kitchen extension design. Depending on your tastes, you might go for an industrial look, cottage look or a more up to date look. Whether you go for reclaimed wood, stainless steel or something in-between, you can show off your island for that wow factor.

Contact us

GOA Studio has many years of experience in the transformation of kitchens. Contact us to find out how we can help you design your perfect kitchen and obtain more kitchen extension ideas that will wow. 

 

Side Return Extensions: A Quick and Easy Guide

Side return extensions are one of the best ways to improve your home, whether it is a semi or terraced property. This type of extension can add space and bring light flooding in. However, there are some factors to consider before rushing in, so here is a quick and easy guide to some of the main concerns people have.

Side return extensions – what are they?

You might already know what this type of extension is and how it can benefit you but if not we will answer that question right here.

While you could essentially have this type of extension added onto any room, most typically it is installed in the kitchen area of your home. The extension is perfect for installing along the side of the property to open it up and bring in light.

By adding on a side return extension, you can expand a small kitchen into your dream kitchen. Alternatively, you might add in a dining area, which can be flooded with light thanks to roof windows and skylights. You can turn a drab unused piece of side land into something special, add on another room and add value to your home. 

The major changes when having a side return extension

Some major changes have to occur with any type of extension and this one is no exception. However, with specialists installing your extension you don’t have to worry as everything is explained and all questioned answered.

Some of the biggest changes when undertaking work to install the extension include:

·         A new wall will have to be built so if you have close neighbours this has to be taken into consideration;

·         The sidewall of the room you have chosen to expand will have to be knocked down, or partially knocked down, depending on your chosen extension design;

·         A new floor will need installing for the extension and many people choose to have the entire floor covered instead of just in the new extension, to tie it all together;

·         A new roof will be installed over the extension so you have to decide what type of roof you want in your new room. If you want to let more light into the property you might choose fully glazed or skylights. You might also choose windows that automatically open and close based on temperature or glazing that cuts down UV rays.

Which types of doors?

Another consideration for side return extensions is the type of door. Three of the most popular types of doors are bi-fold, folding and sliding.

This is a matter of personal choice. However, if the doorway leading outside is on the small side you might be better off with either folding or bi-fold. If the doorway is large, sliding doors often provide a wow factor.

Contact us to talk about your design preferences for new side return extensions. Our expert architects and designers will provide you with advice and a quote. GOAStudio is an award-winning practice with an approach based on careful consideration of all aspects before then talking over creative ways to make the most of your property.   

 

Foam Freestanding Letters Make Your Company Stand Out

If you are looking for ways to make your business stand out from the crowd and be memorable there is no better way than having your company name or logo stand tall. An easy and cost-effective way of doing this is through 3D foam freestanding letters.

Professionally designed freestanding lettering

When you think about foam lettering, you might consider them to be flimsy. However, you could not be more wrong. Foamcutting.co.uk use only high density expanded Polystyrene or Styrofoam, ensuring lettering is sturdy. Letters are designed using in-house CAD software and CNC computer-controlled programmable machines to ensure an exceptional finish.

The materials are also treated to meet fire safety rules and finished to the highest quality in various finishes. These include:

·         Any colour matched;

·         Faced in acrylic;

·         Glitter faced;

·         Finished with a pattern;

·         Finished with a photograph.

 

Foam lettering is designed by professionals to match any existing company branding or any colour you desire thanks to matching colour codes such as RGB, CMYK, Hex and more.  By using freestanding letters, you can make your company name, logo or any other wording stand out in style.

Freestanding letters can be designed horizontally or vertically, they can even be stacked if space is tight. You can also choose to have individual letters or a single piece.

Uses of foam freestanding letters

Freestanding letters can help your business to stand out in many different ways so let’s look at just three of those ways.

1.     Window or floor displays

Make your brand name or logo, or any other wording stand out in window or shop floor displays alongside products. Foam letters can be any size; if space is limited, smaller lettering can be designed, or you can stack single letters vertically.

You might use the letters to highlight the fact you are having a sale, perhaps tell customers about the name of a new product or anything else you want to get across to customers. 

2.     Photoshoots

Freestanding letters come into their own when used in photoshoots. What better way to show off your products, large or small, than have your company name standing tall in 3D large letters. This is something that established companies such as Aston Martin, Google and many others have taken advantage of in photoshoots and advertising.

3.     Conference and events

Freestanding letters can also be put to good use at conferences and events. If your company is taking to the stage to hold an event, have your company branding or new product name freestanding behind you.

Order your lettering online

Foamcutting takes pride in designing and manufacturing freestanding letters in the UK for a wide variety of businesses on a one-off and continuing basis. Contact us on 01706218554 to discuss your requirements, anything from small lettering for desks and windows to the huge standalone letters for photoshoots or display. We work with you throughout all aspects of the design and manufacture process, providing you with high-quality lettering that makes an impact, is tailored to your company, lightweight and durable.    

How IT Companies in London Can Work from Home Easier

 

Today working from home has become the new norm. Now more than ever it is essential to be able to access your work desktop, including files, data and apps, anywhere. Even in better times, IT companies in London (and other companies) realised how valuable it was to give staff network access to data and apps outside of the office. Having seamless, yet secure access to work assets anywhere boosts productivity and here we take a look at how this is made easy.

It’s all thanks to the cloud

Working from home and accessing all the tools and data needed has been made a great deal easier thanks to the cloud. Not the fluffy white things in the sky, but a set of visualisation tools and services that brings the working environment anywhere you are.

IT companies in London, or indeed any company, can utilise a range of cloud-based services, ensuring ease of access, but more importantly secure access.

The benefits of cloud-based working

The many benefits of using a cloud-based service are:

·         It’s a cost-effective solution;

·         Services can be scaled on-demand to your company;

·         Accessibility from anywhere at any time;

·         Your company receives support;

·         Get access to the latest technology;

·         Staff get access to your specific business tools and apps;

·         Skilled experts transfer your IT infrastructure allowing you to focus on your business.

In the current climate, working from home has become a natural occurrence as people self-isolate and fall under restrictions. However, your business doesn’t have to come to a grinding halt.

Even before these restrictions, trend-setting companies jumped onto the cloud bandwagon to make working from anywhere as easy as sitting behind your desk at work.

The cloud transforms how you work

The cloud transforms how you work. One of the biggest advantages is the boost in productivity. If the staff is relaxed and happy, they work better and harder.

The entire workforce can be more creative. Staff can communicate from home easily thanks to the latest technology and collaborate as though they are together in the same room. Whether working remotely using a smartphone, laptop or desktop computer HD video conferencing ensures meetings go ahead as if face-to-face and without a glitch.

During the meeting, staff can access all the tools and data they would as if they were in the office, collaborating and sharing in real-time from any location and on any device.

Work from home easier with our help

We have helped IT companies in London work from home easier thanks to our extensive range of services.

Whether the size of your company, Infiniti-cs can offer a tailored solution that can be scaled on-demand to meet the needs of your business. We have evolved our cloud deployment methodology over the years, supporting customers in the transition to a cloud-based system and we can do the same for you with minimum disruption.

Contact us today through our web form to discuss your needs and find out more about our cloud-based technology and other services.  

 

Vintage Engagement Rings

 

Engagement Rings

Engagement rings have been a symbol of togetherness for at least 500 years and have surprisingly changed little over that time. Typically most engagement rings include precious stones or gems and a fine metal such as platinum or gold bringing to mind the classic three stone diamond engagement ring. In reality any ring can be an ‘engagement ring’ apart from a wedding band or eternity ring which both have a significant meaning.

Along with owning a little part of history antique engagement rings offer a significant incentive over their new ‘brand name’ counterparts, value. For the same cost as a high street retailer a vintage engagement ring is naturally twice as good in terms of size or quality of gems, or materials.

Time periods and their designs can be helpful in narrowing down our large selection of engagement ring styles.

Vintage Engagement Ring

Which styles of Vintage Engagement rings belong to which era ? Find out more below :

Art Deco Engagement Ring

The Art deco movement started in France before the First World War but encapsulates 1920’s to 1930’s glamour and style. Art Deco engagement rings combine expensive materials and quality craftsmanship with a modernist style. Geometric shapes are also part of the style, for example rectangular gems.

Edwardian Engagement Rings

The Edwardian style embraces many of the themes of Gothic and Victorian designs but with the added influence of Arts and Crafts. Floral motifs are a popular theme in Edwardian engagement rings along with a more vivid mix of colours. The period is strictly 1901 to 1910 although is sometimes stretched to c.1890 to 1918. Antique diamond rings are the ‘classic’ Edwardian engagement ring.

Victorian Engagement Rings

Victorian engagement rings are having something of a resurgence due to the popularity of Sapphire engagement rings. The Sapphire is historically a symbol of truth, commitment and romance.

What is a Vintage Ring?

Vintage is a term often misused to mean ‘second hand’ but in its truest form means 25 years to 99 years old. While we do offer second hand engagement rings our second largest collection, behind Antique is of Vintage engagement rings.

Why Choose Crest Whitening Strips UK?

 

We all want a smile to be proud of. However, teeth stains and discolouration can reduce confidence. Fortunately, there are now lots of ways to improve your smiles with teeth whitening. Teeth whitening can occur through laser treatment at your dental clinic, through whitening toothpaste and mouthwash and also whitening strips. One of the most effective options is Crest Whitening Strips UK.

 

What Are Crest Whitening Strips?

Whitening strips, as the name suggests, are long strips that you can apply to your teeth. One strip will cover all of your upper teeth, and another strip will cover your bottom teeth. You simply apply the product to the strip and attach it to your mouth.

 

The Benefits Of Crest Whitening Strips UK

Enamel-Safe – it is important to protect the outer layer of your teeth while also brightening this layer too. Crest whitening products are all enamel-safe ingredients. These are high-quality ingredients that professional dentists would use, so you can be sure your teeth are in safe hands.

 

Effective – Crest 3D White Professional Effects Whitening Strips can remove up to 14 years of stains. This product is one of the most popular on the market for the professional-level results that you can achieve. In fact, it is 25 times better than the leading whitening toothpaste!

 

Easy To Use – Crest strips are super easy to apply and use. Simply apply the strips once a day for 30 minutes. After three days, you’ll see a noticeable difference, but after 20 days you should see full results.

 

Transform Your Smile Today

If you want to whiten and brighten your smile, you can purchase Crest Whitening Strips UK here. Here you’ll find the safe, leading whitening products at discounted rates. So you can enjoy teeth whitening that looks professional and enjoy discounts and savings on the UK’s leading whitening products.