10 questions

In many methods, being a property owner this day and age has been changed by the increase of the home DIY motion, and this also consists of fridge repair work. It’s intriguing because at one time, self-reliance was believed to be a general part of being a house owner instead of an included reward skill-set.

Now, because of the DIY push, peoples’ self-confidence in their capability to fix practically anything in their houses, including their fridge, is high, which is a good idea. The issue is that maybe this self-confidence may be a bit too expensive.

The raised self-confidence might put you in a scenario where you dive deep into a repair work that you’re not ready to take on. There are some DIY supporters that have gotten the word out relating to the way to inform if you ought to deal with a repair work, basically stating, “If it has bolts, screws, or available pieces, you can knock it out yourself.” The teaching has spread out, as seen with such cool areas such as DIY car garage areas where you can use expert devices & tools, but you make the repair work. They also have imaginative crafts centers with offered workshops for the aiming “DIYer”.

(If you need tools, before you buy – check it here: https://www.toolnerds.com/)

Sure, the pieces might appear to make sense, and you can have a general idea might have of how the repair work will go, but that does not mean it’s the very best choice to attempt to try yourself. Being equipped with an apartment or condo tool package & online video guidelines does not a repair work person make? In truth, you might be triggering more issues than the one you began with, which can just mean something – investing much more money for repair work to cover what was incorrect in the very first place & the mess you might have triggered.

People pick the DIY path because it expected to save money. Depending upon how huge the repair work and the scope of the repair work, attempting to do the work yourself might be the most affordable way to obtain the job done. This is really an advantage. You need to have the ability to do fundamental repair work in your house because that’s what an accountable house owner does. But know your limitations.

When it concerns choosing to take on DIY tasks, use sound judgment about that which with you feel comfy. Cleaning up condenser coils is basic enough. Changing a used door gasket must be fairly simple. Defrosting out a drain line is a breeze. The significant indicate remove from all this is that you do not aim to do something beyond your convenience level, as well as if it seems like a defeat, always want to call an expert to assist finish the job.

Do It Yourself fridge repair work might not be such a pipe dream. The secret is understanding that in some cases an expert might be necessitated, and calling a pro does not make you weak – it makes you practical.

Sash windows may be the most popular type of window in the UK, but while the traditional model is still very much prevalent in our architectural landscape, the more popular choice of window material is uPVC. It’s considered a more cost-effective solution that’s easy to repair, but don’t let that stop you from considering timber sash windows!

Timber sash windows can be just as energy efficient as uPVC sash windows. As long as you follow certain precautions when it comes to saving energy, that is. Here are a couple of ideas that you should consider if you have traditional sash windows.

Draught-proofing

A lot of heating costs can be cut simply by ensuring that no draught enters your home. 25% of your heating bill can be caused by heat escaping through your window. A professional company, such as Diamond Construction, can handle draught-proofing your windows, so that you can keep enjoying your timeless timber windows and cutting heating costs at the same time. It’s a much cheaper alternative to replacing your window, and it can be carried out without major structural work, saving your time and money while also not being disruptive in the slightest. Optimise your results by draught-proofing your old windows.

Secondary glazing

Glazing is an important part of keeping your windows solid and energy-efficient. It involves attaching an additional film to the glass pane of the window. There are many benefits to this solution – glazing can reduce heat losses by around a third, as well as adding an additional means of draught-proofing. There are DYI options that may be cheap and simple to apply, but a far more efficient way of implementing secondary glazing provided by a professional company. This option is far more permanent and comes with much fewer drawbacks – check it out for yourself with our expert service!

Triple glazing

If you live in one of the colder regions, it might turn out that double glazing isn’t enough to keep your house warm. In that case, consider triple glazing. A triple glazed windows can save around 42kWh per year over a double glazed window. While you will lose some solar gain due to the additional layer of glazing, it’s still quite a meaningful increase in heat – just keep in mind that this doesn’t make a great difference in all context, so always make sure that triple glazing is right for you!

With people all around the world becoming increasingly environmentally conscious, cleaning solutions without the use of chemicals are currently very often sought-after. Though some areas, such as windows, require a special amount of care in order to truly look clean, which makes finding an alternative to detergents quite difficult. Nevertheless, it’s definitely possible to clean your windows without using any chemicals.

Here’s a simple guide on how to handle that.

In order to clean your windows completely, the best way to approach the situation is to start with getting the grime off your windows. You have to do it manually and you’ll need a bundle of fine steel wool, a soft-bristled brush, a hoover with a soft brush head, as well as a number of optional safety precautions – gloves, goggles, and a fan. Before you begin working on your cleaning project, make sure to remove your contact lenses, or at least cover your eyes with safety goggles, as things can get messy. The gloves might help with protecting your hands from the grime – if you don’t have them, just make sure you wash your hands frequently.

If you have a screen on the other side of your window, clean it our using your brush,  knocking any leftover dust from it. Using a fan, you can blow the rest outside completely. If you’ve already done that – or don’t have to do that because you don’t have a screen – it’s time to clean your window. Gently rub the steel wool over the glass – start with the outside of the top pane, then move on to the inside, and then do the same with the bottom pane. Steel wool will help you remove the grime without damaging the glass. Once you’re done with that, use the hoover to get rid of the leftover steel wool flakes that drop after taking off the grime.

Now it’s time to remove grease and oil from your window. This involves using the tried and tested condiment that was used for cleaning far before we came up with detergents – vinegar. You’ll need white vinegar, water, a spray bottle, and a newspaper. You should also be ready to ventilate the area or use a couple drops of essential oils in order to kill the smell of the vinegar. Using the mixture of water and vinegar after the steel wool scrub will leave you with streak-free, sparkly clean windows. Fill your bottle with a 1:1 mixture of water and vinegar. Evenly spray your entire window with a moderate amount of liquid, and then scrub it all down with the newspaper. Use a wipe to gather any leftover pieces of dust or dirt, and you’re set!

How to insulate your windows for the winter – five reliable options

Winter is pretty much upon us, but the coldest winds are still to come. While we all love the gorgeous winter scenery, what with snow and ice changing our regular landscape into a winter wonderland, we all know it’s best view from a distance, from a warm place with a hot cup of cocoa. Sometimes, it may be harder to achieve that than you think – keeping your home warm really depends on a number of factors. Among the most important ones is window insulation. Here are five ideas for insulating your windows for the winter.

1. Rubber Weather Sealing

This involves the installation of self-stick rubber elements. These long strips can be purchased in a number of places, both online and in physical shops, and they can be cut down to many sizes, so they’re a versatile option that you can be sure will always work, tightly sealing any gaps you have to keep out the draft. They’re a cheap option that won’t alter the appearance of the window, but once you peel them away, they may slightly damage the paint, leaving behind a sticky residue.

2. Window Insulation Film

This kit includes a plastic shrink film that is attached to an indoor frame using double-stick tape. Afterwards, a hair dryer can be used to shrink the film and get rid of any videos. This may sound complicated, but is actually really simple, on top of being a cheap and effective option. Keep in mind, however, that it leaves a visible, cloudy look.

3. Cellular Shades

These shades are a perfect means of insulating your windows while still allowing for light to come through. They can be custom-fitted to any type of window, so you can be sure it’s always an optimal choice. Keep in mind, however, that this option is quite pricy and doesn’t offer as much insulation as other options.

4. Layered or Insulated Curtains

Curtains made using heavy fabrics, with single or multiple layers, are quite an effective way of keeping out drafts and maintaining a steady high temperature in your home. Aside from regular curtains, there are insulated curtains available with thermal backing, made with the express purpose of insulating your windows. They are a very stylish option that can be customised to match your decor, but keep in mind that they’re quite a costly option that also blocks out light.

5. Draft Snakes

These are fabric tubes placed on a windows sill or under a door, and they’re meant to keep the cold air from coming inside. They’re a cheap option and you can make them yourself, making it a fun DIY project, but they can only go so far – this option only insulates the window sill and not the glass or frame.

There is a certain Christmas tradition in the UK which has prevailed for generations. It involves putting a candle in your window. Though other traditions, like presents under the tree, are more prevalent, many people still have a special place in their hearts reserved for it. But what exactly does it mean and what are its origins?

Lighting the candle and putting it on your window sill dates back to colonial times. Irish Catholics used to face intense repressions from the British, which prevented them from overtly practicing their faith. Priests had to perform their rituals underground, while believers left candles lit in their windows and their doors unlocked, signalling to priests that their home was safe to visit. Of course, times have changed and this is no longer the purpose of the candle, and most people don’t even realise its significance. Nowadays, it serves more of a symbolic role.

We put up candles for Christmas as a shining beacon of hope. The light within the darkness reminds us of all the family members that are gone. Whether they’re just far away and unable to turn up, or no longer among the living, the candle can act as a form of prayer for them. It’s a quiet reminder that Christmas is about so much more than just the consumerist craze connected to presents. In a similar vein, it is also used to welcome travelers come from afar, who may be in need on this special night.

Christians are far from the only religions to practice putting up a candle in their window. Though in Christianity, the candle acts as a representation of the Star of Bethlehem, Jewish people put up something called a menorah in their windows. It’s a custom related to the celebration of Hanukkah, which is usually celebrated at around the time Christmas is. Nowadays, it serves the role of a symbol of their undying faith.

But the candle doesn’t have to have a religious or even spiritual meaning. It can serve as a symbol of helping those in need, or a simple decoration. It’s a means of spreading happiness by reminding people that no amount of darkness can ever distinguish the light of a burning candle. And it’s that sense of hope that has made the tradition prevail to this day.

When it comes to sash windows, you really can’t go wrong. The design is timeless and can work perfectly in any type of home. But when picking a sash window, you have to consider one very important thing aside from just looks – the mechanisms within. Over the years, two distinct types of sash windows have proved to be viable options – spring and balance systems, and cords and weights systems. Keep reading to find out which is the best for you!

Weights and pulleys

This is the traditional system used in sash windows. Originally, sash windows were always operated using cast iron weights. The weights were installed within a box that was built into each side of the window. These are the main operators of the window’s opening mechanism, which can be manipulated using a piece of sash cord that travels over a pulley located in the top corner of the window. This cord attaches to the sash, making it possible for it to move smoothly. The most important part of this design is that the weight chosen must be a very close match to the weight of a sash, as otherwise a proper counterbalance can’t be achieved.

Spring balance

The spring balance system is the new standard for used more commonly in sash windows. Though the counterbalancing principle stays similar to the weight and pulley system, it’s achieved in a different way. These windows utilise a PVC tube, in which there are two springs installed which allow for the counterbalancing to take place. Though it’s always made using this material, windows nowadays usually come with a balances cover that matches the rest of the timber window in its looks. That way, even this type of window can be implemented into homes of any possible style.

Which should I choose?

You really can’t go wrong with sash windows, and both of these options have their own advantages and disadvantages. Which one best suits your home largely depends on your location, the reveals in your window opening, and the overall effect you want to achieve. Go with weight and pulley windows if you really want to recreate that authentic, historic feel. Spring balance windows will fit in perfectly with most buildings and won’t reduce the amount of light coming in, and they’re cheaper to boot!

Double-glazed windows are currently the staple of windows in UK homes. There’s no denying the fact that they offer their fair share of advantages over single glazing, to the point that the latter is no longer considered a viable option for homes. With double glazing, you can ensure that your home has much better thermal performance. However, triple glazing has now become an option and that raises the question: should you choose double or triple-glazed windows for your home?

What is double glazing?

Double glazing has revolutionised the way windows function and the current regulations make sure that no new house can be built without double-glazed windows. This system works by utilising the vacuum between two panes of glass. This vacuum helps increase thermal efficiency, making sure that your home remains safe and warm at all times.

What about triple glazing?

Triple glazing works on the same principle, but utilises three panes of glass instead, providing us with two spaces of trapped vacuum. Logically, this means that these windows should provide even better thermal regulations – Norway and Sweden, for example, have laws dictating that new builds should include triple-glazed windows, while the super energy-efficient PassivHaus model also utilises exclusively triple glazing. It might sound like triple glazing is thus the objectively better choice, but whether that is really the case or not depends on a number of factors.

So which should I choose?

Triple glazing offers the following advantages over double glazing:

• better acoustic performance for keeping out noise
• better for retaining heat in the home
• improved U-value of 0.9Wh/m2.K
• gathers enough sunlight to work with even north-facing windows
• stronger, more durable

Both double and triple-glazed windows come in a range of colours and both offer a similar level of quality, aside from the additional traits listed above. However, triple glazing involves a much more complex production process with different gases used to create a vacuum, and as a result, the price of triple-glazed windows is far greater than that of the double-glazed variant.

If you aren’t in need of the above improvements – such as, if you don’t have north-facing windows, problems with noise or your home getting cold in the winter – double glazing may actually be the optimal option. A new double-glazed window can actually prove to be more energy-efficient than its triple-glazed counterpart. So before making your purchase, make sure the additional pane and the costs involved are actually something you need in your life.

What are the signs that indicate your windows need replacement? Asides from physical damages easily picked by the eyes like cracked window panes or broken window sash, other signs of window damages are quite difficult to spot. Here are some signs that might tell you the sash windows require replacement:

1. Windows are difficult to close or open

Some windows usually develop balance issues due to some technical reasons. This then creates uneven pressure on some window parts which in turn causes difficulty in opening or closing the windows. If not fixed early, it may lead to window pane breakage or even window damages.

2. Too much noise and dust from the outside

This is normally a sign that the insulation of the window has been affected. Consequently, noises from outside penetrate through the small open spaces finding their way to the inside of the house. It is a problem for houses close to busy streets. Additionally, it may result in high energy bills since the HVAC system would need to clear out he air from dusts.

3. Excessive condensation in between the window panes

Appearance of „sweat” or condensation on the inside of your window glazing, particularly during cold days, might be a good indicator of seal failure. As a result, moisture from the outside penetrates the spaces between the window panes thereby forming condensation. If you happen to have noticed such a sign, then it might be wise to fix the problem or just opt for window replacement.

4. Presence of cold draft in the house

It is normal to have some slight cold drafts when inside the house. However, when these drafts start to reach to a level that you can constantly notice then you might need to worry about your window’s integrity. This is because the thermo-comfort might be affected coupled by the HVAC system using twice as much energy to fix the comfort problems.

5. Decay, rusty, softness signs on the window frames

Signs like these are an indication that your windows have reached their end of service. They are normally caused by water moisture and weather elements. Any repairs at this stage would be a waste of resources. For this reason, your sash windows are best just completely replaced from the frames, window sash to the glass panes.

6. The need have a new look in the house

Sometimes you might not need to have window damages in order to replace them. The feel to change the looks of the interior might be all the reason you need. It is amazing how an entire window replacement might change the look of your house.

7. Security reasons

In areas where security is a major concern, constant replacement of windows might be necessary to assure that the house is always secure.

One or more of the above signs might be reason enough for a window replacement. It is important to also appreciate how fixing the above problems might be beneficial in saving energy costs while also making sure your comfort is always maintained at conducive levels.

Therefore, if you ever notice any of the above signs, you should never hesitate to start considering window replacement options.

Aesthetically pleasing and simple in design, sash windows continue to be one of the most popular choices with British house owners. We love them, we admire their elegance, and we invest thousands in their renovation. But how much do we know about these classic beauties?

Who invented sash windows?

The invention of sash windows is often credited to Robert Hooke. Others believe they came from Holland in the 17^th century

The oldest surviving example of sash windows was installed in England in the 1670s. You would think that by now we should know who stands behind this great invention. However, the origins of sash windows have been the subject of investigation till these days. The invention of sash windows is often credited to Robert Hooke. Others believe they came from Holland in the 17^th century. Another school of thought suggests that sash windows weren’t invented, but they simply developed from horizontal sliding sash, known as Yorkshire sash. Among a variety of answers it seems there is one thing we all agree about – whoever did invent sash windows, he did a great job!

How wide are sash windows?

Standard sash windows measure approximately 4 feet in width. As such they were used mainly in late Victorian suburban houses

Standard sash windows measure approximately 4 feet (1.2m) in width, and as such they were used mainly in late Edwardian and Victorian suburban houses. However, the history teaches us that Englishmen have never liked to abide by rules. Throughout England we can find units that are literally of any size, used – among others – in traditional English pubs. Nowadays we don’t follow standards either. Almost any joinery company offers sash windows manufactured to bespoke sizes, from windows that are as narrow as 405mm to ones that are almost 2 metres in width. It really depends on a type of sash window you require for your house.

How to paint sash windows?

The secret of painting sash windows lies in moving the sashes as you work in order to expose unpainted areas

Painting sash windows is not an easy task, and it is crucial that you do it in the right way and in the right order. First and foremost, you need to prepare windows by removing all sash furniture such as locks and handles. Brush down (or even hoover!) the windows to make sure all the dust is removed. Now, you can move on to painting. The secret lies in moving the sashes as you work. You can start with pushing the bottom sash as high as it goes and pulling the top sash down. Paint the mullions in both sashes, face of the frame on the lower sash and the underside of the rebate. Once done, push the top sash back up, but not all the way into the rebate to avoid painted surface meeting. Paint mullions and frame faces you couldn’t reach before. Finish it off with painting the cill and frame casing. Et voila!

What are barn sash windows?

Barn sash windows are one of the simplest windows and the most common choice for sheds, barns or cabins

Barn sash windows are one of the simplest windows you can get. They consist of wood frames, single-glaze glass panes and classic dividers for extra charm. They can be installed sideways or upright, and hinged to open up, making the design very comfortable and easy to use. As such they are the most common choice for sheds, barns or cabins, as they are high-quality, maintenance-free units. Nowadays many manufacturers of barn sash windows try to their keep traditional appearance and at the same time incorporate modern assembly methods so that the windows are easy to maintain for the end user.

Are sash windows secure?

If fitted with a key-operated lock and a pair of stops, sash windows are as secure as a window can get

Sash windows are often associated with old buildings and with the times when health and safety regulations weren’t taken as seriously as they are now. Even though original sash windows did raise safety concerns, nowadays making sure your windows are secure and burglar proof is very easy. First of all, sash windows can be fitted with a key-operated lock to prevent opening from the outside. Mind you, clasps, bars or fasteners are not considered locks. For extra security sash windows can be fitted with a pair of sash stops, which will not only prevent anyone from forcing the window up, but they can also be used to lock the window open for extra ventilation.

Double or triple glazed sash windows? 

The cost of triple-glazing is higher than double-glazing, yet the improved U-value is not very large

Sash double-glazed windows are secure, energy-efficient, and rattle-free, with a U-value of 3 or as low as 1.6 if fitted with modern double-glazing. Nowadays, however, the focus is on reducing noise and increasing efficiency as much as possible, and so we are bit by bit encouraged to switch to sash windows with triple-glazing. Their U-value can be as low as 0.8, but – to be honest – the additional energy we are saving is really minuscule. Also, to get such a low U-value, you would have to insulate the window frame itself, and use much more expensive manufacturing techniques. In other words, the cost of triple-glazing is higher than double-glazing, yet the improved U-value is not very large.

What are Gregorian sash windows?

Georgian sash windows are characterised by the classical “six over six” arrangement of panes on each sash

Georgian-style sash windows, coming from Georgian era, are mainly characterised by proportion, symmetry, and – above all – elegance! They usually have the classical “six over six” arrangement, which is three panes across by two panes up on each sash. Another feature we associate with Georgian sash windows is the use of a narrow glazing bar, the need for which was first articulated by Isaac Ware in his Complete Body of Architecture: “Those thick bars we used to employ hurt the eye, and obstruct a great deal of light; the intent is that as much glass should be seen, and as nearly in a continued body as possible.” Last but not least, the upper and the lower sashes of Georgian-style windows slide vertically in separate groves.

How to insulate sash windows?

There is a number of ways to insulate sash windows, including fitting draught-proofing strips, hanging heavy curtains or adding a second sheet of glass

Sash windows can be draughty, especially the old and weathered down ones. The main source of heat loss is through the gaps in window frames. Luckily, there is a number of ways to insulate sash windows and make them more energy efficient. The cheapest way is to fit draught-proofing strips, which could reduce air infiltration by nearly 90%! Some also suggest hanging heavy curtains for better results. Another way is to add a second sheet of glass to window frames (secondary glazing), which could cut heat loss by 60% and would allow you retain original windows without the need for damaging alterations. Some also resort to double-glazing. This, however, means losing the original windows and damaging the character of your property.

Which locks are best for sash windows?

One of the best ways to secure sash windows is to fit them with a pair of key-operated dual screws

Securing sash windows to insurance standards means fitting them with locks, even if they are painted shut. You should pay special attention to windows on the ground floor and easily accessible windows on the upper floor, as they are most vulnerable to attacks. One of the best ways to secure sash windows is a key-operated dual screw, which is a barrel-type lock. The bolt is screwed through an internally threaded barrel fitted in the top of the lower sash into a hole in the bottom of the upper sash. It’s advised these locks should be fitted in pairs. For extra security you can also use pairs of high-security sash stops. Not only do they prevent the window from being forced up, but they can also be used to lock it open for ventilation.

Which material is better for sash windows? Timber o uPVC?

Both timber and uPVC sash windows have their prons and cons. The final decision is often down to personal preferences and comfort

In order to answer this question, it is best to have a look at all the pros and cons of both timber and uPVC sash windows. The first thing to consider is the matter of heat loss. U-value of a new sash timber window with double-glazing is around 1.7, whereas that of a new uPVC sash window is 1.6. The difference is really insignificant. Another aspect to look at is a lifespan. If correctly maintained, timber sash windows can last for ages. To compare, the lifetime of uPVC windows is maximum 35 years and they are known to discolour as a result of UV. Finally, let’s consider the look. Properties with wooden sash windows are said to look better and sell for more. However, good uPVC windows look very similar to timber windows and they cost less. All in all, it is really down to personal preferences and comfort.