pvc sash replacement?

Lexxx

I hope some of you pvc/wood/sash window experts can help me.

I have a pvc sash window, fitted about 15odd years ago, the nylon string, and pully thingy that it is attached to, that allow window to slide is broken.

They do not make these windows any more, the landlord did decide to replace the window a while back. But now they have changed their mind, trying to save money? and decided to replace the pvc sash mechanism with the wooden sash mechanism?

can it be done,
sounds very dangerous to me?

hope this question makes sense.
I am very worry window will fall out and cause damage?

Lexxx

Can any window experts help me?

McAzrael

Can you post a picture? I've never come across a PVC sash hung on ropes and pulleys.

Lexxx

McAzrael,

The repair guy that came round and explained he showed me the broken nylon rope, there was also a spring and a small box with metal metal bits... you can tell i dont have a clue:p.

The guy was talking completely over my head!

I dont have a picture of the mechnism bits, but...not sure if it helps, but i found this pic. The big windows on the left, that is what my window look like.

McAzrael

The modern way to hang sashes is on a spring (usually in a tube for tidyness' sake), whether it's a timber or UPVC sash. Is this what he is on about? Those windows do not have traditional ropes and pulleys in - there's no room for the sash boxes.

Mr_Warren_2

I confirm what McAzrael says. We have had PVC double glazed sash units fitted around 4 years ago (actually did it myself with a friend) and the up-down action is by means of springs fitted inside tubes. The company that sold them to me is KAT based in the South somewhere (KAT manufacture their own units). The unit quality was spot on and we have no problem with our purchase.

Lexxx

McAzrael wrote: »

The modern way to hang sashes is on a spring (usually in a tube for tidyness' sake), whether it's a timber or UPVC sash. Is this what he is on about? Those windows do not have traditional ropes and pulleys in - there's no room for the sash boxes.

kinder what i thought, landlord is being very cheap! well i have another 'so called expert' coming around again this week, so it will be interesting to see what he says.

Lexxx

Mr_Warren wrote: »

I confirm what McAzrael says. We have had PVC double glazed sash units fitted around 4 years ago (actually did it myself with a friend) and the up-down action is by means of springs fitted inside tubes. The company that sold them to me is KAT based in the South somewhere (KAT manufacture their own units). The unit quality was spot on and we have no problem with our purchase.

well my window is about 10/12 years old, I have always had problem with it, always felt like a 50 ton weight was in window and had to struggle to open and close it, so i guess was not fitted corrected, or just a crap window!

McAzrael

The modern way is not a 'cheap' way - it's much more reliable, allows for a much larger glazed area and maintenance is a lot easier. The springs can typically handle far heavier sashes than their rope and pulley counterparts, meaning double glazing isn't a problem.

Modern sash windows, with their improved gaskets and draught seals, better chemical protection and hi-tech double glazing units are a class apart from their Victorian counterparts. They cost a fortune, mind.

Lexxx

I said my landlord was being cheap, because i think he is just trying to do a patch job on a window that is kaput, the nylon cord is hanging out the side of the window.

The window needs to be replaced with a working pvc window.:)

sashman

Lexxx

Old box sash had lead weights, pulleys, and cords to hold them together.

Modern windows as McAzrael says, can have the same or one of 5 different types of "balane". Clock spring or constant force balances, block and tackle, windups, Ultralifts or TORSO balances (the very best)

None of these rally have a nylon cord (block and tacle have very thing stringy peice) but there were cord tilt restrictors fitted to PVC windows 10 years ago and its possible the cord if this not the spring balance.

With the right balance the sash should open with moderate assistance (old ladies should be able to open them) AND STAY in the opened position.

www.caldwell.co.uk as the biggest producers of balances (bit techy site)

From the pic it looks like you have early PVC sash windows perhaps Rehau but its not possible to say from this picture

sashman