For UK homeowners who want an authentic look in their older or period homes, wood sliding sash windows are a popular choice. While wood sash windows are both affordable and attractive, many Britons ha…

For UK homeowners who want an authentic look in their older or period homes, wood sliding sash windows are a popular choice. While wood sash windows are both affordable and attractive, many Britons have concerns about the environmental implications of using so much wood. Many wonder if PVC sash windows aren’t a more earth-friendly choice. PVC sash window, however, have their own set of problems, not the least of which is that they are not biodegradable. Here’s some information about wooden sash windows that might help consumers make an informed choice.

If you’re a consumer who is conscious that the choices we make in the present may have far-reaching effects on future generations. While many people are concerned about the high levels at which wood is consumed for building products like wood sash window, we need to remember that wood is a renewable resource that can be farmed like vegetables and fruit. Although the time to maturity is longer, “tree farms” are common in many countries worldwide.

Timber sash window utilize both soft- and hardwoods in their construction. So, when shopping for replacement windows, try to determine the source of the wood from which they are constructed. Such sources should be only managed forests where sustainability and renewability are paramount concerns.

Why Not to Buy PVC or Aluminum Window

Although the argument for buying PVC or aluminum window might seem valid on the surface, in truth it’s defective. For example, did you know that over 33% of the chemicals listed as hazardous by EU governments are used in the manufacture of PVC? The energy cost of converting these dangerous substances to PVC and then to sash windows is much higher than the energy cost of converting trees to wooden sliding sash windows. In addition, wood is biodegradable and recyclable where PVC is not. Both the World Wildlife Fund and Greenpeace have endorsed the use of wood window because they do not compromise or threaten the environment.

More Reasons to Buy Wood Window

Consumers must remember that using timber from managed forests is environmentally sound not only because wood is biodegradable and recyclable but also because wood, if properly used, treated and maintained can last indefinitely. In fact, a wooden statue that dates back to 2300 BC was recently found in a tomb in Sakkara, a burial site associated with the ancient Egyptian city of Memphis. Wooden sliding sash windows also have insulating properties superior to those made from PVC. This means homes with wooden windows are highly likely to have lower heating and cooling costs. To be truly earth-friendly, timber sliding sash window should be finished with water-based stains and sealers rather than with solvent-based products that can harm the environment and pollute ground water.

Sliding sash windows are an important architectural detail in many UK homes. Considering environmental factors when choosing replacements is an important aspect of any purchasing decision.