How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of how they appear. Sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or shut. This is often due moisture that can cause the timber to swell.

Traditionally, box sash windows used chains, cotton cords or weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes, which are modular, can be reconstructed to original dimensions. This lets the restoration meet modern day energy requirements while still complying with conservation area regulations. It also offers upvc windows cambridge with a more attractive appearance than upvc window lock repair alternatives.

Sliding sash window frames were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However the production became cheaper and artisans could produce larger frames with larger glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the use of curtains.

The early windows were made of clear glass however, by the 17th Century, sash windows began to become more ornamental. They were initially made of colored glazing bars or mullions. They were costly at first, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they became a common feature in many homes of the period.

In the 19th century, it became possible to make large, strong glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be enlarged which, in turn, provided an improved view. This was an important innovation.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding plastic window repair (https://www.hanatechltd.com) at the end of I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.

The most common type of sash is constructed from slow grown deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more luxurious buildings and in some earlier examples. It is crucial to maintain the separation bead that divides the sashes. This will prevent draughts and rattles. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers are essential to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets were made available. They were coated with plate glass that was set within rebated timber frames and secured with glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to make them watertight. This kind of glazing gradually superseded the leaded light bulbs.

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

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. Without this maintenance they can get drafty. Putty and paint can cause draughts too. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber solutions.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the belief that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, while they can be maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause substantial disruption to the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows with PVC-u from a 'one-stop shop' installation company. They can replace all windows in a home 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 more energy efficient ratings than those offered by traditional windows with sash. These double glazing cambridge-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their appearance. A variety of ironmongery types can be fitted with sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. They can be fitted in such a way that the window is able to be open for ventilation and cleaning. These products are often discrete since they are made to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash window catches and should be replaced with more robust versions (such as those incorporating double glazing repairs cambridge screws) or spring levers to decrease the risk of them being hammered out.

Sash-window frames were typically made from slow-growing deal or, in more luxurious homes made of oak. If the glazing bars are still in good condition, they should be retained. If it is possible, the cills of the timber double glazed windows cambridge should be replaced by wood that matches. PVC-u companies typically provide a one-stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows across a home in one day, without the need to engage other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a large amount of light into buildings. By the end 18th century, they had been modified to allow more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also made. The result was a more streamlined 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, while later Victorian ones were made from brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be kept and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

To keep them in good condition, wooden windows must be maintained. Inattention to maintenance can lead to:

sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

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

break down of putty allowing water penetration that can lead to decay in the frame and cill.

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their strength slim and inexpensive and were in line with the trend for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows are just as thermally efficient as double-glazed PVC-u windows and can be more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows.

The replacement window industry did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. The truth is that a lot of old windows made of wood are in good shape and, with minor repairs, could easily be maintained for years to come.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can lead to the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars, and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to be misaligned and unable to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or slammed into an open position and let water and draughts in the property.

Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to timber windows. This can be prevented by regular maintenance as well as thorough painting, and then removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, decaying wood. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut off and the affected area carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made of the same type of wood as those remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric used in the first place and is among the most minimally invasive methods of treating the rot that occurs between timber and timber.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is another alternative to traditional sanding and 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 historic ironmongery such as sash stays and latches be kept and rehabilitated instead of being replaced. These items can be very difficult to replace without damaging the the original design. It is also recommended that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, are avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.