I have just had a quote to replace my existing windows with wooden sash windows throughout which came in at 11k. To do the same job with upvc casemnet sash look-a-likes the quote was 6k.
Please can anyone recommend any well priced suppliers in London/surrey?
Many wooden sash windows have lasted for over a century but need regular painting and maintenance,no manufacturer of uPVC windows will give you as much as a 50 year guarantee but most of them seem to be an excellent alternative. Most future buyers of your home would prefer not to have a regular painting bill or the chore of doing it themselves(usually badly and in the case of sash windows wrongly). However if it is a heritage building or you prefer wood - go for it, you may pay a bit more but you will add value to your property.
Totally disagree with Greyfriar. Buyers will pay a premium for period features and this includes having the original windows where possible. If the originals are in such poor condition as to be beyond redemption then you should try to have faithful copies made in the original material, i.e. wood. You could ask the local estate agents for their opinion but I will guarantee you that they will tell you that putting in upvc will devalue your property regardless of how so-called 'realistic' they are. If I were you I'd get some further quotes from joiners as I'm sure you can do better than 11k. I had wooden sashes and casements made and fitted at an Edwardian property in north London for substantially less than that.
In my opinion uPVC windows can totally spoil properties unless they are new builds. Think of sash windows as an investment, and shop around for prices. I'm sure you could find a lower quote - if your windows are a fairly standard size try Screwfix - their wooden windows are the same price as plastic.
I hate sash windows, I haven't seen one yet that isn't draughty, rattles, or sealed up with bits of newspaper and sellotape, and when the chord snaps it is a major job to dismantle the frame to replace it, ditto with bare floorboards.
Originally posted by keithb: I hate sash windows, I haven't seen one yet that isn't draughty, rattles, or sealed up with bits of newspaper and sellotape, and when the chord snaps it is a major job to dismantle the frame to replace it, ditto with bare floorboards.
Obviously only seen original century old sash windows - I dread to think the state uPVC windows will be in in 2108!
Something often overlooked about sash windows is you can (fairly) easily take them out to get furniture into the room that couldnt otherwise be negotiated through the door & round the hallway.
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