How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and are difficult to open or shut. This is typically due to moisture which can cause the wood to swell.

Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilized chains or cotton cord and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to address this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed to modular imperial sizes Timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows to comply with current energy standards and comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also provides windows with a more attractive appearance than upvc door handle repairs near me alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only found in large buildings or public buildings, though this changed when production became cheaper and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden windows and doors cambridge style in British homes. Since they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without the need for curtains.

Early windows were plain glass, but in the 17th century, sash windows started to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the beginning but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became an integral feature in many homes of the period.

In the 19th century, it became possible to produce large, strong glasses that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame size to be enlarged more, which in turn meant more of a view from the window. This was a very important innovation.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a 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 simultaneously, and gave improved ventilation to buildings.

Oak was used for older examples and for more prestigious buildings. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will prevent rattles and draughts. It is also essential that sash pulleys and idler 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 larger and clearer sheets were made available. They were made of plate glass, set within rebated timber frames and then pinned with glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This kind of glazing gradually replaced led lights.

The introduction of sashes resulted in an need for a larger variety of ironmongery with the basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, knobs and shutters, and a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes in the right place. These were usually decorated with designs, inscriptions, and engravings to identify the maker.

Sash windows are energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. If they are not maintained they could become drafty. Paint and putty can cause draughts too. This can be corrected using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The replacement window industry relies heavily on the perception that old windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a little attention. Repairs can be expensive and cause many disruptions in the home. Many homeowners choose to replace their windows using PVC-u from a 'one-stop shop' installation company. They can replace and remove all windows in a home in a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen, making the whole process much more efficient. They can also be fitted with 'energy-saving' double-glazing, which can achieve greater energy efficiency than traditional sash windows. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions and sections of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising on their aesthetics. Many types of ironmongery are available, including sash chains, mortice bolts and sash locks. They can be fitted so that the window is able to be opened for ventilation or for cleaning. These are typically unobtrusive, as they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-Window maintenance catches that should be replaced with more robust models (such ones with double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the risk of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames were traditionally made from slow-growing deal or, in the more prestigious houses made of oak. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept and where possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on an entire house in just one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

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

Sash windows were introduced, which required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a combination of lead and wood, and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be kept and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.

To ensure they remain in good condition, timber windows must be maintained. A lack of regular attention can lead to:

Sashes that do not move effortlessly.

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

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

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their strength, slim and cheap and were in line with the trend for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash window and door repair near me are as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. However, many old windows made of timber are in good shape and with minor repairs can easily be serviceable for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your window's sash, it could lead to the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame, which can cause the sash to not close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or fixed in an open position, which can let water and draughts in the property.

Damage to timber windows is often caused by water infiltration. This can be prevented by regular maintenance, thorough painting and removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, decaying wood. Any timber that is rotting must be removed and the affected part carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same type of timber as those remaining. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric left, and is among the least invasive methods of treating timber-to-timber decay.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is a viable alternative to traditional process of sanding or 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 treating pulley cords and sash which can help prevent breakage.

It is crucial to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery such as the sash latches and stays. They can be extremely difficult to replace without harming the the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided if at all feasible as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.