Re: Re: Irish say no to PVC windows

I was about to say well spotted cobalt, but in fairness you could hardly miss it! (or the earlier top ones for that matter)

(excuse phone camera)

Definitely the worst plastic sash I’ve ever come across, and one of the worst PVC windows generally.

Great to hear the original still survives. Good work all round. Westland Row has an excellent array of historic window types.

KeepAnEyeOnBob, they are indeed PVC sashes you are seeing everywhere. They’ve been around for many years now, developed by the PVC industry to target those who still had qualms about replacing traditional sash windows, or for persuading owners that these new windows were an approved ‘heritage solution’ for use in historic buildings. They’re generally ignorantly detailed, crass against historic materials, the joints weather very badly, and of course above all result in the loss of original fabric. They are of course illegal in Protected Structures.

Futhermore, these windows must surely have a lower lifespan than conventional PVC windows, as they use spring-loaded and pre-tensioned sliding mechanisims instead of simple pulleys and strings. These systems simply haven’t been around long enough to prove how long they last, but as with most consumer products which endure heavy use, they surely cannot be that durable or be easily replaced. Certainly large spring-loaded double-glazed timber windows I have come across have proved an absolute disaster, lasting only 6-7 years in comfortable operation before failing en masse.

As for arched or ‘segment-headed’ windows, these are commonplace in Victorian buildings and a tribute to the skills of seasoned craftsmen. It is extremely rare that you will ever encounter an arched opening in these buildings containing a square-headed window. Thus, in 99% of such cases observed, you can be guaranteed that it’s a botched replacement job.