Sash window history is fascinating for one interested in the progress of civilization. This brief article will only touch the highlights, as it is a subject that could almost fill a book. Developed with the idea of making a frame with glass panels, which could be opened, and operated with pulleys, springs and balances it was an instant success. Some of the older homes of the 18th century still have this type of window.
The actual idea for this window is in dispute. It has been attributed to Holland, France and England but the actual origin is not known. However, when it was introduced it became very popular, especially with the more affluent people.
Historians have traced the earliest use of these windows to the 17th century in England. They definitely had a status symbol and were coveted by the more wealthy people. Before this new window was introduced, it was common to use lead-light windows. A window tax, in effect from 1600 to the 1800′s made the windows even more of a status symbol the population.
Fashionable adornments were worked around the windows and are still evident in some of the older houses in Europe. They were considered an elegant addition to the more expensive homes. Classic glazing was developed around the 18th century, which resulted in six panes over six panes and was a very popular window, which was most commonly used in Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian houses.
World War II brought forth the idea of mass production. This idea advanced to the window industry. With the presentation of steel casements and windows that did not require any pulley or other attachments, sash windows lost their popularity and were discarded.
In diagnosing the reason, for the decline of this popular window it was determined that the labor costs did not make it feasible to continue production. The the mouldings used required special treatment and could not be massed produced. Builders, especially, found the later model windows were easy to install and maintain.
Fortunately, today people are more aware of the need to preserve our past. As a result remodeling efforts of Victorian homes have once again installed these windows to preserve a very important period of time. With these efforts the history of sash windows has not been lost forever.
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