How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in cambridge windows

Many homes in cambridge windows and doors have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of the way they appear. Sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or shut. This is typically due to moisture that can cause the wood to expand.

Box sash windows were historically operated by chains, cotton cords and weights made of lead. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs 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 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 gives windows that have a superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were initially only found in large buildings or public buildings, however this changed as production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to produce larger frames with more glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden design in British homes. Since they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.

The first windows were made of glass that was plain however, by the 17th Century the sash windows began to become more ornamental. They started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and less expensive, they became a part of many period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, strong glasses that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be enlarged and, in turn, gave an improved view. This was a significant innovation.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that occurred towards the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. The double glazing near me-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.

Oak was used in older examples and for more prestigious buildings. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes and it is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good condition as these assist in operating the window repair cambridge.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets became available. They were coated with plate glass that was set within rebated timber frames and then pinned with glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glass gradually replaced leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which resulted in an increase in 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 fix the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engravings that identified the maker.

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

The industry of replacement windows is based on the perception that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, whereas they are able to be maintained with a bit of care. These repairs can be costly and cause lots of disruption to the home. To avoid this homeowners often opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows made by one of the largest 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can take down and replace all the windows in a house in just one day, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen, making the whole process much more efficient. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving' double glazing repairs glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than a traditional sash window. However these double-glazed units are unable to reproduce the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their appearance. Many types of ironmongery can be installed, including sash chains, mortice bolts and sash locks. They can be fitted in such a way that the window can be open for ventilation and cleaning. These are typically minimal in appearance, as they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. They should be replaced with more robust versions, such as those with double screws or sprung levers, to minimize the chance of being hammered.

Sash-window frames are usually constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept and if it is it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. PVC-U companies usually offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on an entire 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 significant amount of light to flood into the buildings. By the end 18th century, they were modified to allow more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also created. The result was a much more streamlined appearance, and windows that had a higher degree of elegance than before.

Sash windows were introduced and required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of leaded and wood. There were also a variety of types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their beautiful design.

To ensure they remain in good shape, timber windows need to be maintained. Lack of attention to them regularly could lead to:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

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

break down of putty, allowing water penetration that could cause decay in the frame and cill.

Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s & I930s because they were strong and slim, cheap and matched the trend of healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as thermally efficient as double glazing cambridge-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and may be more appealing than the modern sleek design of casement windows.

The replacement window industry did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed, drafty and beyond economical repair. The truth is that a lot of older windows made of wood are in good condition and with minor repairs could easily be repaired for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your sash window, it can lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It could also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes may also cause structural movement in the frame, which can cause the sash not to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or slammed into an open position and this can let water and draughts in the property.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by water penetration. This can be prevented by thorough painting, regular repairs and the elimination of the source of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy look of the existing paint which can be stripped to reveal soft, rotting wood. Any rotten timber sections should be cut off and the affected area carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made from the same type of wood as those remaining. This method of repair increases the amount of original fabric that is left and is among the least invasive ways of treating timber-to-timber decay.

A resin-based wood condenser is an alternative to the traditional sanding or staining. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is especially beneficial for treating pulley cords and sash, which can help prevent breakage.

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