How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of the way they look. However, sash windows may 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 by chains or cotton cords, as well as lead weights. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes, which are modular, can be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration to meet the current energy standards while complying with conservation area regulations. It also offers windows with a superior appearance than upvc window repairs near me alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used in large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames using greater glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden style in British homes. Since they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.

Early windows were simple glass, but in the 17th century, sash windows started to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive initially, but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became a common feature in many period houses.

By the 19th century it was possible to create large, strong glass that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to be increased even more, which in turn meant more of a view out of the window. This was an important innovation.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window doctor at the end of I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened at the same time and allowed for better ventilation to the building.

The most commonly used type of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was utilized in more prestigious buildings and in earlier examples. It is important to maintain the parting bead that separates the sashes. This will help prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are essential for the proper operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

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

Sashes were introduced, which led to an increase in demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers, shutter hinges and handles as well as a variety of fasteners used to fix the sashes. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and engravings that identified the maker.

Sash windows can be very energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. However, without this maintenance they can become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can also cause draughts. You can fix this problem with wood-to-timber products.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the perception that old windows are damaged beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs are costly and can cause considerable disruption to the home. To prevent this, many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the largest 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and avoiding the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be supplied with 'energy saving' double-glazing to get higher energy efficiency ratings than those offered by traditional windows made of sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to duplicate the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising on their aesthetics. A variety of ironmongery types are available including sash chains mortice bolts and sash locks. These can be put in place to ensure that the window is open for ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically not noticeable since they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catch. These should be replaced with more robust models like those with double screws, or sprung levers in order to reduce the risk of being hit with hammers.

Sash-window maintenance frames were traditionally made from slow-growing deal or, in more luxurious homes, from oak. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept and if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by identical wood. PVC-u companies typically provide a one-stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on a complete home in a single day without the need to engage other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a significant amount of light to flood into the buildings. By the end 18th century, they had been modified so that more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also produced. The result was a more light appearance and windows with more elegance.

The introduction of sash window repair cambridge windows also necessitated an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and leaded. There were also a variety of types of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their fine design.

To keep them in good shape, timber windows require regular maintenance. Lack of regular attention may result in:

Sashes that no longer slide easily.

holes in the frame allow water causing damage and decay.

break down of putty allowing water to penetrate, which could cause decay in the frame and cill.

Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s and I930s because they were strong and slim, cheap and matched the trend of healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash windows are just as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The industry of replacement windows has done a lot to persuade house owners that their old windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. Many older timber windows can be repaired and used for a long time with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, 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 can also result in structural movements within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close correctly. The sash can also be stuck in its open position, allowing water and draughts into the property.

Damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented by regular maintenance by thorough painting and eliminating the source of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified by the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut out and the affected part carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same kind of timber as the ones that remain. This method of repair maximises the amount of fabric that is left and is among the least invasive methods of treating decay of timber to timber.

A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to the traditional process of sanding or staining. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is especially beneficial for the treatment of pulley cords and sash which can help prevent breakage.

It is crucial that any old ironmongery such as sash stays and latches are kept and rehabilitated instead of being replacing them. These items can be very difficult to replace without harming the the original design. It is also recommended that modern fittings made of aluminium casement windows cambridge like sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.