I have what feels like a rare dilemma. We've just moved into a 1990s house that has original double glazed timber sash windows. They're regency style so lots of small panes.
All the windows operate okay (although the occasional one is painted shut) but the double glazing spacers have warped in a few places and look ugly. There's not really any drafts, but I need to make a decision before insulating the house.
Given the age of the house, and the fact we don't live in a conservation area, we can pretty much do what we want in terms of replacement. It's a small modern regency styled job, so I would like to stick broadly to that style, otherwise there's no driver for authenticity.
Do I.......
- Replace the whole lot with new timber double glazed units. Cost c£15k-£20k which means I can kiss goodbye to having a garden room.
- Replace with upVC sash - which seems the worst of all worlds
- Replace just the glazed sections which means I'm hoping the 25 year old frames will stay sound.
- Go for casement windows - either uPvc or timber.
- Leave them alone and wait for them to degrade further before replacing completely.
I just cannot make my mind up!