How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

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

Box sash windows were traditionally operated using chains or cotton cords, as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to overcome this issue.

1. Aesthetics

In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are made to modular imperial sizes the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original sizes. This allows the restoration to meet modern day energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation area regulations. It also provides a window that is far superior to the upvc window repairs near me alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. In the 18th century, windows made of sash were the predominant design of wood in the majority of British properties. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light in rooms without the need for curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass but by the 17th century, sash windows were becoming more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. These were very expensive at the time but as glass production became more efficient and less expensive, they became a part of numerous period houses.

By the 19th century it was possible to make large, strong glass that did not require supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be enlarged, which in turn gave a better view. This was an important innovation.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and the beginning of I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened at the same time and gave improved ventilation to a building.

The most popular type of sash is constructed from slow grown deal (pine) however oak was also used in more expensive buildings as well as in some earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes and it is important that this is well maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. It is also crucial that sash pulleys and idler wheels are in good working order as they help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as clearer and larger sheets were made available. They were glazed with plate glass set in timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glass gradually replaced led lights.

The introduction of sashes led to the need for a greater variety of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges, knobs and shutters and a variety of fasteners to hold the sashes to their the right place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and engraved patterns that identified the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they can become draughty and let in cold air. Paint and putty may cause draughts. This can be remedied by making use of wood-to-timber door seal repair near me tools that are proprietary.

The replacement window industry relies on the perception that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, while they are able to be maintained with a little attention. Repairs can be expensive and cause lots of disruption to the home. To prevent this homeowners, many prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the large "one stop shop" installation companies. They can take down and replace all the windows in a house in just one day, avoiding the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much quicker. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving double-glazing to attain more energy efficient ratings than a traditional sash window mechnism repair. However, these double-glazed units cannot duplicate the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their aesthetics. A variety of ironmongery types can be fitted including sash chains mortice bolts and sash locks. These can be put in place in a way that the Window Repairs Near Me is open for ventilation or cleaning. These products are usually minimal in appearance, as they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches and are required to be replaced with more robust models (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring levers to decrease the possibility of them being hammered open.

Sash-window repairs cambridge frames were traditionally made from slow-growing deal or, in more luxurious homes, from oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and, if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by the same wood. PVC-u companies often provide a one-stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows on a complete house in a day without the need to involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light into the buildings. By the end 18th century, they were modified to allow more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a lighter appearance, and windows with a greater degree of elegance than before.

Sash windows were introduced and required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, whereas later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a combination of wood and lead, and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be retained and cleaned down to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

timber double glazed windows cambridge windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. Inattention to maintenance routinely could result in:

Sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

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

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

In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows gained popularity due to their strength, slim and cheap, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash window are just as effective as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The industry of replacement windows did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten, drafty and beyond economical repair. The reality is that many old timber windows are in good shape and with minor repairs could easily be repaired for many years to be.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your window's sash, it could result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movements within the frame, causing the sash not to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or slammed into an open position and this can let water and draughts into the property.

Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided with regular maintenance as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy look of the paint that can be removed to reveal rotting, soft timber. The sections that are rotting should be carefully removed and the affected part should be scarfed together or pieced together using replacements of the same kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair maximises the amount of fabric retained and is one of the least invasive methods for treating decay of timber to timber.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is a viable alternative to traditional staining or sanding. The product is brushed on to the surface of the wood to stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful for treating pulley cords and sash which can stop breakage.

It is essential that any historic ironmongery like sash stays and latches are retained and restored instead of replacing them. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings like sash lifts and chain stays is avoided whenever feasible as they could cause corrosion and damage to timber frames and sashes.