How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows 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, which can cause the timber to expand.

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

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed to modular imperial sizes the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original size. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows to comply with current energy standards and to comply with conservation area regulations. It also offers a window with a far more attractive appearance than upvc doors repairs alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were originally only used in large buildings or public buildings, though this changed as production became cheaper and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. In the late 18th century Sash windows were the most popular wooden design in most British properties. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the need for curtains.

Early windows were plain glass, but by the 17th century, sash window Repair cambridge windows began to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were costly initially, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were commonplace in many period houses.

By the 19th century it was possible to create large, strong glass that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to be increased even further and this in turn allowed for a wider view out of the window. This was a very important improvement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that was made towards the end of the I920s and the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened at the same time and also improved the ventilation of the building.

The most commonly used type of sash is constructed from slow grown deal (pine) but oak was utilized in more luxurious buildings and in some earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes. It is essential that it is maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good working order as they aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets were made available. They were glazed with plate glass placed within timber frames with rebates and then pinned with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes led to the need for a greater variety of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges, knobs and shutters as well as a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes in place. These were usually decorated with designs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be very energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. If they are not maintained, they can become noisy. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. This can be remedied by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the perception that old windows are damaged beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a little attention. These repairs can be costly and cause a lot of disruption in the home. Many homeowners choose to replace their windows using PVC-u from a "one-stop shop" installation company. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and eliminating the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double glazed door repairs glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows made of sash. However double glazing repairs-glazed windows cannot reproduce the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their appearance. A variety of ironmongery types are available with sash chains, mortice bolts, and sash locks. They can be positioned in a manner that the window is able to be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually not noticeable, since they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used alongside traditional sash-window catchers and are required to be replaced with more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the chance of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames are usually made from oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and, if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by identical wood. Many PVC-U firms offer a one-stop installation service. They can remove and replace windows throughout a house in just one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a significant amount of light into buildings. At the end of the 18th century they were modified to let even more light into rooms, and larger glass panes began to be manufactured. The result was a lighter look and windows with more elegance.

Sash windows were introduced and required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, whereas later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their beautiful design.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good order. Inattention to maintenance can result in:

Sashes that no longer slide easily.

holes in the frame allow water causing 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, cost-effective and matched the trend towards healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are as thermally efficient as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and are more attractive than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows.

The industry of replacement windows was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed, drafty and beyond economical repair. Many old timber windows can be repaired and utilized for a longer period with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your sash window, it can cause the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It could also cause paint and putty deteriorate. The removal of sashes may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to be misaligned and unable to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or fixed in the open position, which can let water and draughts enter the property.

The damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture penetration. This can be prevented by regular repairs by thorough painting and eliminating the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. The sections that are rotting must be removed with care, and the affected area should be snared together or glued together by using replacements of the same nature as the rest of the timber. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric that is left and is one of the least invasive ways of treating timber-to-timber decay.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to traditional staining and sanding. This is brushed onto the surface of the timber to stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is especially beneficial for the treatment of pulley cords and sash which can help prevent breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, like the sash latches and stays. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium casement windows cambridge fittings like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, are avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.