How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of how they appear. Sash windows can become stuck and be difficult to open or shut. This is typically due to moisture, which can cause the wood to swell.

Traditionally, window boxes utilized chains or cotton cords and lead weights to operate. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to avoid this issue.

1. Aesthetics

In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are manufactured to modular imperial sizes the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration to meet modern day energy requirements while still complying with conservation areas regulations. It also provides windows that have a more attractive appearance than upvc Door repairs alternatives.

Sliding sash window frames were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However, this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more 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 allowed light into rooms without curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows started to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were costly at first, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were a common feature in many historic homes.

By the 19th century it was possible to create large, strong glass that did not need support bars. This allowed for the frame to be made bigger which, in turn, provided an improved view. This was a very important innovation.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of the I920s and beginning of I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously, and also improved the ventilation of the building.

The most common type of sash is constructed of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more prestigious buildings and in some earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes and it is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are essential to the operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets were made available. Plate glass was set into rebated timber frames, pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to the frame's two sides for watertightness. This kind of glass 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 as well as sash stoppers shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges and various fasteners used to secure the sashes. These were often decorated in designs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. If they are not maintained they can get draughty. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of paint and putty. You can fix this problem by using wood-to-timber solutions.

The market for replacement windows rests on the belief that old windows are damaged and beyond repair, while they can be easily maintained with a bit of care. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause considerable disruption to the home. To avoid this, many homeowners opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one the many "one-stop shop" installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and eliminating the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be supplied with 'energy saving' double-glazing to get higher energy efficiency ratings than those offered by traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions or section of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their aesthetics. Many types of ironmongery are available including sash chains mortice bolts, and sash locks. These can be put in place in a way that the window remains open for ventilation or cleaning. These are typically not noticeable, since they are designed to match the sash window seal replacement near me. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. These should be replaced with more robust models, such as those with double glazing near me screws or sprung levers, to minimize the risk of being hit with hammers.

Sash-window frames were constructed from slow grown deal or, in the more prestigious houses they were made from oak. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept and if it is feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can remove and replace windows on an entire home in one day, without involving any other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a substantial amount of light into the buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they had been modified so that more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also produced. The result was a lighter look and windows with more elegance.

The introduction of sash windows also required the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of wood and lead. There were also a variety of types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be kept and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good shape. Inattention to maintenance routinely could lead to:

Sashes that don't slide easily.

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

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

Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s & I930s due to their strength and slim, cost-effective and matched the trend of healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as thermally efficient as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and are more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows.

The replacement window industry has done a lot to convince homeowners that their traditional windows are old, dirty, and beyond economic repair. However, many older windows made of timber are in good shape and with minor repairs can easily be maintained for years to come.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can result in sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of the sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to be misaligned and not closing properly. The sash could also get stuck in the open position, which allows water and draughts into the property.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by moisture infiltration. This can be prevented by regular maintenance, thorough painting and removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. The sections of timber that are rotten should be carefully cut out and the affected area should be snared together or glued together by using replacements of the same kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric left, and is among the least invasive ways of treating decay of timber to timber.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is an alternative to the traditional method of sanding and staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the wood to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is especially useful for the treatment of sash and pulley cords, which can stop breakage.

It is essential that any ironmongery from the past such as sash stays and latches are retained and rehabilitated instead of being replaced. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings like sash lifts and chain stays is avoided if at all possible since they can cause corrosion and damage to frames and sashes made from timber.