An Easy-To-Follow Guide To Sash Windows Cambridge

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows may get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture that can cause the wood to expand.

Box sash windows were traditionally operated using chains or cotton cords, as well as lead weights. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to eliminate this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes that are modular, can be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration to be in line with modern energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation area regulations. It also offers an option that is superior to the uPVC options.

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

The first windows were made of clear glass However, in the 17th century the sash windows began to be more decorative. They were initially made of colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were expensive at the time but as glass production improved and less expensive, they became a feature of many period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, sturdy glasses that didn't need support bars. This allowed the frame to be enlarged, which in turn gave the viewer a better view. This was an important innovation.

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

The most commonly used type of sash is constructed from slow grown deal (pine) however oak was used in the more expensive buildings as well as in some earlier examples. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead that separates the sashes. This will prevent draughts and rattles. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers also are crucial for the proper operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets were made available. Plate glass was set into rebated timber frames, secured with glazing sprigs and putty was then sprayed onto the frame's sides to ensure watertightness.  cheap double glazing cambridge  of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

Sashes were introduced, which led to a greater demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers, shutter hinges and handles and various fasteners used to secure the sashes. These were often decorated in motifs, inscriptions, and engravings to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be very energy-efficient with regular maintenance. Without this maintenance, they can become noisy. Paint and putty may cause draughts too. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber products.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the belief that older windows are old and beyond repair, whereas they can be maintained with a bit of care. These repairs can be expensive and cause lots of disruption to the home. To avoid this homeowners often choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the many "one stop shop" installation companies. They can take down and replace all windows in a home in just one day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much faster. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving double glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than a traditional sash window. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their appearance. Many types of ironmongery can be installed, including sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. These can be installed in a way so that the window can be open for ventilation and cleaning. They are usually discrete since they are made to work with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches, which must be replaced by more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the chance of them being hammered out.

Sash-window frames are traditionally made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are still intact and in good condition, they should be kept. If feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced by wood that matches. Many PVC-U firms offer a one-stop shop 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 huge amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. In the 18th century, they were modified to allow more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also created. The result was a lighter appearance and windows that were more elegant.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of leaded and wood. There were also a variety of types of knobs and shutter hinges. The ironmongery pieces need to be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design.

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

Sashes that do not move effortlessly.

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

Water can get into the putty and cause decay to the frame or the cill.

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows grew in popularity because they were strong slim and inexpensive and were in line with the trend for healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows are as efficient thermally as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and are more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The replacement window industry has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their windows are rotten, draughty and beyond repair. The reality is that many old timber windows are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be maintained for years to come.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly can result in sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame, causing the sash to not close correctly. The sash may also become stuck in an open position, which allows the water and drafts to enter the building.

Damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture entry. This can be avoided by regular maintenance as well as thorough painting, and then removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. Any timber that is rotting must be removed and the affected part carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same type of wood as those remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric left, and is among the least invasive methods for treating decay of timber to timber.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to traditional sanding and staining. This is brushed onto the surface of the wood to help stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which can help stop breakage.

It is important that any ironmongery from the past such as sash stays and latches be kept and restored rather than replacing them. They can be extremely difficult to replace without harming the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings, such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided if at all possible as they can cause corrosion and damage to frames and sashes made of timber.