How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in cambridge double glazing

Many homes in cambridge double glazing have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and are difficult to open or close. This is often due moisture that can cause the timber to swell.

Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilised chains or cotton cord and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to overcome this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes and are modular, are able to be restored to their original size. This lets the restoration be in line with modern energy requirements while complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also offers windows that have a superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became more affordable and artisans could create larger frames using more glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most sought-after Wooden Windows And Doors Cambridge [Securityholes.Science] style in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

Early windows were simple glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows were becoming more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were costly initially, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became an integral feature in many period houses.

By the 19th century it was possible to create large, strong glass that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame size to increase further and this in turn gave a better view out of the window. This was a significant advancement.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of the I920s and beginning of I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s.

The most commonly used kind of sash is made from slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more prestigious buildings and in earlier examples. It is important to maintain the parting bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will prevent rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers are also vital to the operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As larger and clearer glass sheets were made available, sash windows began replacing hinged casements. They were made of plate glass, set within rebated timber frames and secured with glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to make them watertight. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

The introduction of sashes resulted in an need for a larger variety of ironmongery with the basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges, knobs and shutters, and a range of fasteners that secured the sashes to their place. These were usually decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engravings to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. But, if you don't maintain them, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. This can be fixed by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the belief that old windows are damaged beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. However, repairs to these windows can be expensive and involve substantial disruption to the home. To avoid this homeowners, many choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the large 'one stop shop' installation companies. These can remove and replace all windows in a house within a single day, avoiding the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much faster. They can also be supplied with 'energy-saving' double-glazing to achieve greater energy efficiency than traditional sash windows. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions or section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their appearance. A variety of ironmongery types are available, including sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. These can be installed in a manner that the window can be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These products are often unobtrusive as they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window and door repair near me catches. They are best replaced with more robust versions, such as those that incorporate double screws or spring levers, to minimize the possibility of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames were made from slow-growing deal or, in the more prestigious houses, from oak. When glazing bars have survived they should be kept and where it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. PVC-u companies typically 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 co-ordinate various visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light into structures. By the end of the 18th century they were adapted to allow even more light into rooms and larger glass panes began to be manufactured. The result was a much lighter appearance, and windows with a higher quality of design than before.

The introduction of sash windows also required the creation of a new line of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, whereas later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a combination of wood and lead, and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their exquisite design.

To ensure they remain in good condition, wooden windows require regular maintenance. Lack of attention to them regularly could lead to:

sashes that no longer slide easily.

holes in the frame that admit water that can cause decay and damage.

The putty can be soaked by water and cause decay to the frame or the cill.

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows gained popularity due to their durability slim and affordable and were in line with the trend for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash windows are just as effective as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

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

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly can result in sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of sashes could also cause structural movement in the frame, which can cause the sash to not close correctly. The sash could also get stuck in an open position, allowing the water and drafts to enter the building.

Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to timber windows. This can be avoided by thorough painting, regular repairs, and removing the source of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy look of the existing paint which can be removed to reveal 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 of the same type of wood as the ones that remain. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric left, and is one of the least invasive methods for treating decay caused by timber.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to traditional sanding and staining. This is brushed onto the surface of the timber to stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is especially useful to treat sash and pulley cords, which can help prevent breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery such as stay latches and sash latches. These items are difficult to replace without damaging the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided whenever possible as they can cause corrosion and damage to timber frames and sashes.