May 31, 2010
Wooden Windows
To get a good timber window you must start with good quality timber. It should be sourced from sustainable forests to make sure that this eco friendly prioduct remains replenished and we do not support illegal logging.
Most timber windows are available in the following wood
Softwood
This is normally a redwood or whitewood (Pine) timber. It has knots along its length that can add character but also can have problems and weak spots on the product. The timber is easily damaged but is relatively inexpensive .
Engineered Softwood
Defect free, knot free and 60% stronger than traditional softwood. This is made from layers of timber glued together. All the knots are cut out of the material leaving a knot free product. This is great for painted windows.
Sapele
A high quality hardwood ideal for dark stained windows or paint. The timber is hard wearing and has a high immunity? to rotting. Sapele is a great choice for doors as it does not dent too easily.
Idigbo
This is a hardwood that is ideal for light stains such as pine . It can have a very orange grain and is prone to moving. It is very strong and with the right stain can be made to look like other more expensive hardwoods. It is often referred to as the poor man’s oak
Oak
Beautiful Oak windows - what more needs to be said. It just looks great . If you want a very hard wearing – last a lifetime product that will make everyone fall in love with then Oak in my opinuon is the best timber for windows.
Security should be a top priority
Security of your property is of the highest importance. Ensure that you use Stainless Steel hardware which has been approved by the BBA and is licensed as 'Secure by Design'. All locks and ironmongery should comply with the BS7950n enhanced security specification. If you are buying a door ensure that it has the highest security imaginable.
Energy saving glass
Products such as Saint Gobain EcoClear supply the very best energy savings. EcoClear is a high performance, energy efficient double glazed unit which enables you to save money on your heating bills as well as reduce carbon emissions.
EcoClear double glazed units allow windows to achieve the Government backed Window Energy Ratings (WERs) of A, B and C rated windows and will qualify for Energy Saving Recommended status.
A quality product needs a quality finish.
A great window can be ruined by poor quality paint and stain finishes. Make Sure your windows are fully factory finished with at least four coats of the best quality stain or paint. Microporus paints require little maintenance and some come with a 10 year guarantee. This means your timber windows will not need painting for 10 years – that’s basically maintenance free. In 10 years another coat of the same paint will provide you with another 10 years.
By David Grooms
Managing Director of Vantage Window Systems.
A supplier of high quality timber windows
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