How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of how they look. However, sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture that can cause the wood to swell.

Traditionally, box sash windows used chains or cotton cords and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash window springs are hidden to eliminate this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes and are modular, can be restored to original dimensions. This allows the restoration to meet modern day energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation area regulations. It also provides windows with a superior appearance than upvc doors repairs alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were originally only used in large buildings or public buildings, though this changed as production became cheaper and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. By the late 18th century sash windows were the dominant design of wood in the majority of British properties. Sash windows were simple to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the use of curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows began to become more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive initially, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were a common feature in many period houses.

In the 19th century, it became possible to create large, sturdy glasses that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame to be made larger, which in turn gave an improved view. This was an important innovation.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and at the beginning of I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.

The most popular kind of sash is made from slow grown deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more prestigious buildings and in some earlier examples. A split bead divides the two sashes. It is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. It is also crucial that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good condition as these help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets were made available. Plate glass was placed in frames of timber that were rebated, then secured with glazing sprigs and putty was then sprayed onto the frame's sides for watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to increased demand for ironmongery. The most common fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and handles, and various fasteners used to secure the sashes. These were often decorated in patterns, inscriptions and engravings to identify the maker.

Sash windows are energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. If they are not maintained they can get noisy. Putty and paint can cause draughts. This can be remedied by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the belief that old windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause substantial disruption to the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows using PVC-u from a 'one-stop shop' installation company. They can replace and remove all windows in a home in a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much quicker. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving double glazing repairs cambridge glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed windows aren't able to replicate the proportions or section of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising on their aesthetics. Ironmongery such as sash chain, mortice bolts and sash locks can be used. These can be installed in a way so that the window is able to be open for ventilation and cleaning. They are generally minimal in appearance, as they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used with traditional sash plastic window Repair - ai-db.science, catch. They should be replaced with more robust models like those with double screws, or sprung levers, to minimize the risk of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames were made from slow-growing deal or, in the more prestigious houses made of oak. When glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and if it is it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on a complete house in just one day, without involving any other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a large amount of light to enter buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were modified to let even more light into rooms and larger glazing panes began to be produced. The result was a more light appearance and windows that were more elegant.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their exquisite design.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good shape. A lack of regular attention could lead to:

Sashes that don't slide easily.

Holes in the frame that allow water to enter and cause damage and decay.

Water can get into the putty and cause decay to the frame or the cill.

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their strength, slim and cheap and were in line with the trend for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash window are just as effective as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The window replacement industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were rotten and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. Many older timber windows can be fixed and used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly can lead to sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to be misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or fixed in the open position and this can let water and draughts enter the structure.

Damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture penetration. This can be prevented with thorough painting, regular repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. Any timber that is rotting should be cut out and the affected area should be carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same type of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric retained and is one of the least invasive methods for treating decay caused by timber.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is another alternative to traditional staining and sanding. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is especially useful for treating sash and pulley cords, where it can prevent breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, like sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is also advised that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.