How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of the way they look. However, sash windows may become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture, which can cause the wood to expand.

Box sash windows were historically operated with chains, cotton cords and lead weights. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to address this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes, which are modular, are able to be restored to original dimensions. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows in order to meet current energy requirements and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also offers windows that have a superior appearance than upvc windows cambridge alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, though this changed as production became less expensive and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. By the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant wooden style in a majority of British properties. Sash windows were simple to operate and allowed light to enter 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. They were costly initially, but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became commonplace in many historic homes.

In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, strong glass that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be made larger which, in turn, provided the viewer a better view. This was a significant advancement.

The introduction of the double glazing repairs near me-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made in the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s.

The most common kind of sash is made from slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was used in the more luxurious buildings and in some earlier examples. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes, and it is vital that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and draughts. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good shape as they aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As larger and clearer sheets of glass became available, sash window started replacing hinged casements. They were made of plate glass, set in timber frames with rebates and then pinned with glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to make them watertight. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

Sashes were introduced, which resulted in increased demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers, shutter hinges and handles as well as various fasteners used to fix the sashes. They were often decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engravings to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. If they are not maintained they can get noisy. Paint and putty can cause draughts. This can be fixed by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The market for replacement windows rests on the belief that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, while they can be easily maintained with a bit of care. These repairs can be costly and cause lots of disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide 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 different tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be fitted with 'energy saving' double glazed door repairs-glazing to get greater energy efficiency than are possible with traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their appearance. There are many types of ironmongery that are available with sash chains, mortice bolts, and locks for sash. These can be put in place so that the window is capable of being opened for ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically not noticeable since they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-broken Window repair catchers that are required to be replaced with more robust models (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring levers to decrease the risk of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames are traditionally constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. If glazing bars have survived, they should be preserved, and where feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can remove and replace windows throughout a home in a single day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a significant amount of light to flood into structures. By the end 18th century, they were modified to allow more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also made. The result was a much lighter appearance and windows with a greater level of elegance than they had before.

Sash windows were introduced, which required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, whereas later Victorian ones were made from brass or a combination of wood and lead, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their exquisite design.

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

Sashes that do not slide smoothly.

holes in the frame that admit water causing damage and decay.

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 cheap and also matched the fashion for healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as efficient thermally as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and may be more appealing than the modern sleek design of casement windows.

The replacement soundproof window repair industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten drafty, noisy and beyond repair. Many old timber windows are repairable and can be used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your window's sash, it could cause the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause paint and putty become damaged. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movement within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close correctly. The sash can also be stuck in an open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the building.

Moisture penetration is a common 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. Wet rot can be identified due to the wavy appearance of the existing paint which can be stripped to reveal soft, rotting timber. The sections of timber that are rotten should be carefully cut out, and the affected area should be snared together or pieced together by using replacements of the same type as the remaining timber. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric that was originally used and is one of most minimally invasive methods of treating wood-to-timber rot.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to the traditional sanding or staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is especially beneficial to treat pulley cords and sash which can stop breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any old ironmongery, such as the sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without damaging the the original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium casement windows cambridge fittings like sash lifts and chain stays is avoided if at all feasible as they could cause corrosion and damage to timber frames and sashes.