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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in cambridge double glazing - Farmarm.net, have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture that can cause the wood to expand.

Box sash windows were historically operated with chains, cotton cords and weights made of lead. Modern sash window springs are hidden to avoid this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are made to modular imperial sizes the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original sizes. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows in order to comply with current energy standards and conform to conservation area regulations. It also gives windows with a more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives.

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

Early windows were plain glass, but in the 17th century sash windows started to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. These were very expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they were a common feature in many of the period homes.

In the 19th century, it became possible to create large, sturdy glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to be enlarged more, which in turn meant more of a view out of the window. This was a significant advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that occurred towards 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 also improved the ventilation of the building.

Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. A parting bead separates the two sashes and it is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good working order as they aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger glass sheets became available, sash windows started replacing hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass set in timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

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

Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. Without this maintenance they can get draughty. Paint and putty can cause draughts too. You can fix this problem by using wood-to-timber solutions.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the perception that old windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs can be costly and cause considerable disruption to the home. To prevent this, many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can take down and replace all the windows in an entire house within a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the entire process much more efficient. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving' double glazing to achieve higher energy ratings than traditional sash window. However double-glazed windows cannot duplicate the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their style. Ironmongery such as sash chain, mortice bolts and sash locks can be put in place. They can be fitted in a manner that the window is able to be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These products are often not noticeable since they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers that must be replaced by more robust models (such ones with double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the possibility of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window repair specialists frames were made from slow-growing deal or, in the more elegant homes made of oak. If the glazing bars remain in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. Where feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced by wood that matches. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop installation service. They can remove and replace windows throughout a home in a single day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a large amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were altered to allow more light into rooms, and larger glass panes began to be made. The result was a lighter appearance and windows that had a higher quality of design than before.

The introduction of sash windows also required an entirely new range of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, while later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be kept and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good shape. Inattention to maintenance routinely could cause:

Sashes that do not slide smoothly.

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

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

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

The industry of replacement windows has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. Many old timber windows can be fixed and used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can result in sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movement within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close properly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or fixed in an open position and let water and draughts into the structure.

The damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture penetration. This can be prevented by regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. Any timber that is rotting must be removed and the affected part carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same type of wood as the ones that remain. This repair method increases the amount of fabric used in the first place and is among the most minimally invasive methods of treating wood-to-timber rot.

A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to traditional sanding or staining. This is brushed onto the surface of the wood to help stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is especially beneficial to treat pulley cords and sash, where it can prevent breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any historical ironmongery such as the sash latches and stays. It can be difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings like chain stays and sash lifts is avoided if at all possible since they can cause corrosion and damage to timber frames and sashes.