How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or shut. This is often due moisture which can cause the timber to swell.

Box sash windows were historically operated by chains or cotton cords as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to overcome this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed to modular imperial sizes, timber sash windows cambridge can be restored to their original sizes. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows to meet the current energy requirements and comply with conservation area regulations. It also offers an option that is superior to uPVC alternatives.

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

Early windows were plain glass, but by the 17th century sash windows were becoming more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time but as glass production improved and cheaper they became a part of many period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, strong glasses that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame's size to increase further, which allowed for a wider view out of the window repair. This was a very important improvement.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double glazing seal repairs-hung sliding window at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened at the same time and gave improved ventilation to buildings.

The most popular kind of sash is made from slow grown deal (pine) but oak was also used in more luxurious buildings and in some earlier examples. A split bead divides the two sashes. It is essential that it is well maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. It is also essential that sash pulleys and idler wheels are in good working order as they help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets were made available. They were made of plate glass, set within rebated timber frames and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

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

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. Without this maintenance they could become drafty. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber products.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the notion that older windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows can be costly and cause significant disruption to your home. To prevent this, many homeowners prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the largest "one stop shop" installation companies. They can take down and replace all windows in an entire house in just one day, eliminating the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much quicker. They can also be fitted with 'energy-saving' double-glazing to achieve greater energy efficiency than are possible with traditional windows with sash. Double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery, such as sash chain, mortice bolts and sash lock could be used. These can be installed to ensure that the window remains capable of being opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. These products are usually unobtrusive, as they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash window catches that are required to be replaced with more robust versions (such ones with double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the risk of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames are usually made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are still in good condition, they should be retained. If it is it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced with wood that is in line with. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on a complete home in a single day, without involving other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a significant amount of light to enter buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they had been modified so that more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also made. 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. Early pulleys were made from wood, later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a mixture of lead and wood and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be kept and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. Lack of regular attention may result in:

Sashes that do not slide effortlessly.

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

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

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows gained popularity because they were strong slim and inexpensive and also matched the fashion for healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as efficient in thermal efficiency as double-glazed PVC-u windows and can be more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their windows are dirty, noisy and beyond repair. The reality is that many old windows made of timber are in good shape and with minor repairs could easily be maintained for years to be.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it could result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It could also cause paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or slammed into an open position, which can let water and draughts in the structure.

Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to timber double glazed windows Cambridge windows. This can be prevented with thorough painting, periodic repairs, and removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. Any timber that is rotting should be cut off and the affected area should be carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same type of wood as those remaining. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric retained and is one of the least invasive methods of treating timber-to-timber decay.

A wood condenser made of resin is a viable alternative to traditional sanding or staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is particularly useful in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which can help prevent breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any old ironmongery, like the sash latches and stays. These items can be very difficult to replace without compromising the quality of 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.