Sash windows in the UK are a typical feature of Victorian and Georgian properties, with the distinctive aesthetics and designs considered part of the British building heritage. Sash windows have glazed panels that open horizontally or vertically. They are undeniably elegant and charming and a familiar sight across English cities, towns and villages; however, the downside of these windows is the loss of energy and high maintenance costs.

Image Credit

Across England, more people are having sliding sash windows installed to retain the aesthetically pleasing appearance of their homes, conservatories and freestanding garden rooms. The benefits are as follows:

Energy efficient

Sliding sash windows typically have UPVC frames with low emissivity glass used in double glazing windows. This effectively allows sunlight through while preventing air from leaking in or out of the window. Double glazed windows comprise two sheets of glass with a gap of around 16mm between them. This creates an insulated barrier that keeps the heat inside your home.

An estimate by the British Fenestration Rating Council reveals that by installing double glazing you could save between £95 on C energy efficient rated glazing to £115 when using A++ per annum.

Image Credit

Some windows have gases such as krypton, xenon or argon between the glass. The pane spacers used to keep the glass apart are also energy efficient and contain little to zero metal. While you save on energy, you want fresh air streaming into your home during the summer months, making the case for the adaptability of sash windows clear.

Security

UPVC is known for its added strength and durability. Using an aluminium or UPVC sliding sash window frame gives your home a rock-solid security advantage.

Low maintenance

UPVC is the choice for sliding sash window frames that combine well with double glazed glass and components. Homeowners and renters can use a wet cloth to wipe dirt from a window frame and any glass cleaner. You do not have any other upkeep such as sanding, varnishing and repainting when this type of windows is installed. The lifespan of UPVC is up to 100 years, making it a cost-effective solution.

Alternative options

Sliding sash windows are created for those small areas of your home but if you are looking at replacing a large patio style window or door you may want to consider an Aluminium Sliding Doors Swindon company such as bifoldcompany.co.uk/aluminium-sliding-doors-swindon/ instead. This style of door are used as statement pieces in a home and offer instance access out to the garden area, meaning that you create a garden room by simply opening the doors.

The decision to call a builder for a renovation or new build project is not a decision that can be taken lightly and can be expensive. That is why choosing the right company is very important to avoid costly mistakes and ending up living on a building site for months. Here are some useful tips for choosing the right builder for your property project.

What work do you need?

Many small jobs you might try yourself. For anything bigger or regulated, you want to call in professionals who specialize in that field of work. Make sure the company you contact has the experience and insurance to do the specific work you need.

The cheapest option is rarely the best. Yes, we all like to save but when it comes to serious building work, very low quotes must ring the alarm bell. You could end up with an unpleasant shock further down the line, if they fail to correctly cost for materials or labour. You may end up with substandard quality in the material used for the job or a substandard build.

Image credit

It’s also good to know who you will face every day because a lot of communication is needed during a building project. Depending on the size of the job, the builder can be with you for some time, so a good working relationship is very important. Communication is important in any project, so make sure you know who your main contact is. For Construction Companies In Hertfordshire, visit https://www.ashmereconstruction.co.uk/

Don’t be afraid to ask about parts of the process of which you are unclear – after all, it is your project and your money is funding the work! It’s also important that you understand everything that appears on your quote to prevent unpleasant surprises that can cause financial burdens in the future. Prepare detailed briefs for your builders so they know exactly what you want to spend on certain items, otherwise your budget can get out of control before completing the project.

When making the right decision about which company to use, do as much research as possible. If you can, look for current or previous clients to ask about the level of work and service. Go and see projects that they have worked on before with your own eyes. Read online reviews to see genuine customer feedback and if you find it on sites like Checkatrade, trustatrader, mybuilder.com, and Trustpilot, this should provide lots of information and ensures a level of trust and professionalism. Traditional methods are just as effective, and most companies still rely on old-fashioned recommendations.

Image credit

Finally, make sure you check your builder’s insurance. It is very important that they have comprehensive insurance to protect themselves from personal injury, property damage, and public responsibility for protecting you and others near your property. If they cannot show you these details, then the alarm bell must ring, and you should look for another builder company.

If you’re thinking of redecorating or having a complete overhaul of your décor themes then you might be considering an ethnic vibe. This can be achieved with the clever use of antique or vintage furniture and by choosing the right mix of colours. Depending on the culture you want to emphasise, you can tailor your furniture, upholstery and accessories to reflect that ethnic style. Here are some helpful ideas:

Indian – The use of warm colours is essential for creating an Indian themed décor. Think about different hues of oranges, reds and yellows. Traditional wooden furniture and detailed designs on upholstery are further key features. Indian designed rugs and carpets work well in rooms with a neutral or earthy colour on the walls and the use of throws and cushions with colourful, intricate embroidery is definitely part of an Indian ethnic theme. Introduce some glittery gold, silk curtains, venetian blinds and some luxurious red cushions for the bedroom. Other décor items you might want to incorporate include pendant lights, floor lamps and vases.

Image credit

African – Exotic, exciting and an explosion of colour sums up an African-inspired décor choice. You’ll want to stick with light walls but add in warm colours. Think about plastering or wallpapering walls with textured wallpaper to reflect the clay walls of traditional African huts. Colour-wise – think ochre, yellow, orange, deep red and browns. Dark wood furniture and accessories such as ethical faux animal skins, wooden face masks and ethnic wall prints will all add to the African tribal vibe. Zebra prints, woven rugs and wooden statuettes are further African-themed objects you could incorporate. So too are Bolga Baskets, beautifully woven traditional baskets in various sizes and bright colours. For more information, visit http://www.injabulo.com/

Asian – If you wish to introduce some Zen and serenity into your home then an Asian inspired theme might be where it’s at. Floor cushions around a low table are one of the most obvious signs of Japanese culture and the mixture of dark wood furniture against creamy backgrounds. You don’t have to abandon chairs though but instead opt for slightly elevated but low seating. An Asian inspired décor will be of a minimalist design which can help to make an interior look modern and contemporary. Simplicity and a reduction in clutter is the ultimate goal with zen interior design. Soft rugs, lots of natural light and paper panelled doors are also indicative of both Chinese and Japanese influences.

Image credit

Moroccan – Go crazy with colour, texture and scents when you recreate a bustling Moroccan market within your own home. Create mystical and mysterious vibes with bright colours, geometric patterns, lantern lighting and ottomans. Luxurious, detailed rugs work well on a cream and gold backdrop with greens, reds and oranges being incorporated through the use of scatter cushions, floor pillows and deep red throws. Large mirrors and sparkling mirrored surfaces will echo the flair of Moroccan style whilst providing a bit of glamour and bling to your living space. Consider velvet drapes, introducing arches somehow and any accessories with natural Middle Eastern flair.