How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

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

Box sash windows were previously operated by chains, cotton cords and weights made of lead. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to eliminate this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes and are modular, can be reconstructed to their original size. This allows the restoration to be in line with modern energy requirements while complying with conservation areas regulations. It also provides windows that are superior to uPVC options.

Sliding sash window frames were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became cheaper and artisans could produce larger frames with more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden windows cambridge design in British homes. Because they were simple to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.

Early windows were simple glass, but in the 17th century sash windows were becoming more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were costly at first, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were commonplace in many historic homes.

In the 19th century it was possible to create large, strong glass that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame size to be enlarged further and this in turn meant more of a view out of the window. This was a very important advancement.

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

The most commonly used type of sash is made from slow grown deal (pine) but oak was also used in more luxurious buildings and in some earlier examples. It is essential to keep the parting bead which separates the sashes. This will help prevent rattles and draughts. It is also crucial that sash pulleys and idler 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 became available. They were glazed with plate glass set within rebated timber frames and then pinned with glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This type of glass gradually replaced leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes created a need for a much larger variety of ironmongery including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops, shutter hinges and knobs as well as a range of fasteners to hold the sashes to their the right place. These were often decorated in patterns, inscriptions and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

Sash windows are energy-efficient with regular maintenance. Without this maintenance they could become drafty. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be remedied by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.

The replacement window repair cambridge industry relies heavily on the perception that older windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a bit of attention. However, repairs to upvc doors to these windows can be expensive and involve substantial disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a 'one-stop shop' installation company. These can remove and replace all the windows in a house in a single day, avoiding the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much more efficient. They can also be supplied with 'energy-saving' double-glazing, which can achieve more energy efficient ratings than traditional windows with sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to replicate the section and proportions of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their style. Many types of ironmongery can be installed with sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. These can be installed in a way that the window remains able to be opened for ventilation or for cleaning. These products are often discrete since they are made to complement sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash window catches that should be replaced with more robust versions (such ones with double glazed door repairs screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the risk of them being hammered open.

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

4. ventilation Repair cambridgeshire

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a large amount of light to flood into the buildings. By the end of the 18th century, they were modified to let even more light into rooms and larger glass panes began to be produced. The result was a more light appearance and windows that were more elegant.

The introduction of sash windows also required the creation of a new line 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 many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be kept and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.

To keep them in good shape, timber windows need to be maintained. Inattention to maintenance routinely could cause:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

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

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

Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s and I930s due to their strength and slim, cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as thermally efficient as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and are more attractive than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows.

The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their old windows are old, dirty, and beyond economic repair. However, many older windows made of wood are in good condition and with minor repairs could easily be serviceable for many years to be.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your window's sash, it could lead to the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of the sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to become misaligned and unable to close correctly. The sash may also become stuck in its open position, allowing the water and drafts to enter the building.

Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be avoided by careful painting, regular repairs, and removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. The rotten timber sections should be carefully cut out and the affected area should be scarfed together or pieced together with replacements of the exact nature as the rest of the timber. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric that is left and is among the least invasive methods of treating decay caused by timber.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to the traditional sanding or staining. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is particularly useful for treating sash and pulley cords, which can help prevent breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any old ironmongery such as the sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without damaging the quality of the original design. It is also advised that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, are avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.