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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can become stuck and be difficult to open and close. This is usually due moisture that can cause the wood to expand.

Box sash windows were previously operated using chains or cotton cords as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to overcome this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed according to the modular imperial size the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration to meet modern day energy requirements while complying with conservation area regulations. It also offers windows with a superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, however this changed when production became cheaper and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Because they were simple to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.

The early windows were made of glass that was plain, but by the 17th Century, sash windows began to be more decorative. They started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at first, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were commonplace in many period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to produce large, strong glasses that didn't need support bars. This allowed the frame's size to be increased even further, which allowed for a wider view out of the window. This was an important innovation.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another significant improvement that came about in the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and also improved the ventilation of buildings.

The most common type of sash is constructed from slow grown deal (pine) but oak was also used 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 also vital to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as clearer and larger sheets became available. Plate glass was placed in rebated timber frames, pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to both sides of the frame to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to increased demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers shutter hinges and handles and a variety of fasteners to fix the sashes. These were often decorated in motifs, inscriptions, and engravings to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are 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 using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the belief that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, whereas they are able to be maintained with a bit of care. Repairs can be expensive and cause many disruptions in the home. To avoid this homeowners, many prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the many "one stop shop" installation companies. They can take down and replace all the windows in a house within a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much more efficient. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving' double glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows with sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to reproduce the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their style. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain 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 are typically not noticeable, since they are designed to complement the sash Vinyl window Repair. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window installation cambridge catchers and must be replaced by more robust models (such ones with double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the chance of them being hammered out.

Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow grown deal or, in the more prestigious houses, from oak. When glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and where possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by the same wood. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows on an entire home in one day, without the need to engage other tradespeople or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a significant amount of light into structures. At the end of the 18th century, they were modified so that more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also created. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with more elegance.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of leaded and wood. There were also a variety of types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces must be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their fine design.

To ensure they remain in good condition, wooden windows need to be maintained. Inattention to maintenance could lead to:

sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

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

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

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows gained popularity because they were strong, slim and cheap, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash windows are just as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

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

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires 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 the paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes can also cause structural movement in the frame, which can cause the sash to not close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or fixed in an open position and let water and draughts in the structure.

Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be avoided by thorough painting, periodic repairs, and removing the source of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy look of the paint, which can be stripped to reveal rotting, soft timber. The sections of timber that are rotten should be carefully removed and the affected part should be scarfed or pieced together using replacements of the same type as the remaining timber. This method of repair increases the amount of original fabric retained and is one of the least invasive methods for treating decay caused by timber.

A resin-based wood condenser is a viable alternative to traditional sanding or staining. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly useful in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which help prevent the breakage.

It is crucial to restore and not replace any old ironmongery such as 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 aluminium fittings such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided if at all feasible as they could cause corrosion and damage to frames and sashes made of timber.