How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of the way they appear. Sash windows can become stuck and are difficult to open and close. This is often due moisture, which can cause the timber to swell.

Box sash windows were traditionally operated using chains, cotton cords and weights made of lead. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes, which are modular, can be reconstructed to original dimensions. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and to comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also provides windows that have a superior appearance than upvc door repair cost alternatives.

Sliding sash window frames were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However, this changed when production became more affordable and artisans could make larger frames using greater glass. In the 18th century, sash windows were the dominant wooden design in most British homes. Since they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without 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. These were very expensive at the time but as glass repair cambridge production improved and less expensive, they became a feature of many period houses.

By the 19th century it was possible to create large, strong glass that did not need support bars. This allowed the frame size to increase further, which meant more of a view from the window. This was an important improvement.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened at the same time and allowed for better ventilation to a building.

The most commonly used kind of sash is made from slow grown deal (pine) but oak was utilized in more luxurious buildings and in earlier examples. It is essential to keep the parting bead which separates the sashes. This will prevent draughts and rattles. It is also essential that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good working order as they aid in operating the window replacement cambridge.

2. Energy efficiency

As larger and clearer glass sheets became available, sash windows started replacing hinged casements. Glass plates were set in rebated timber frames, secured with glazing sprigs and putty was then sprayed onto the frame’s sides to ensure watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

The introduction of sashes led to an need for a larger variety of ironmongery including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops, shutter hinges and knobs as well as a range of fasteners to hold the sashes to their place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and designs that were engraved to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. If they are not maintained, they can become drafty. Paint and putty can also cause draughts. This can be remedied by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the assumption that older windows are old and beyond repair, while they are able to be maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause considerable disruption to the home. To prevent this homeowners often prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the many “one-stop shop” installation companies. They can take down and replace all the windows in an entire house in just one day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much quicker. They can also be supplied with energy-saving double-glazing, which can achieve greater energy efficiency than are possible with traditional windows made of sash. However, these double-glazed units cannot reproduce the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their aesthetics. Many types of ironmongery can be installed with sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. These can be installed in a way that the window replacement cambridge is able to be opened for ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically unobtrusive as they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash window catches and should be replaced with more robust versions (such ones with double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the possibility of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow grown deal or, in more prestigious houses they were made from oak. If the glazing bars remain in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. If it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. PVC-U companies usually offer a one stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows across a home in a single day without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a substantial amount of light into the buildings. At the end of the 18th century they were adapted to allow more light into rooms and larger glass panes began to be made. The result was a more light appearance and windows with more elegance.

Sash windows were introduced and required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of leaded and wood. There were also various types of knobs and shutter hinges. These ironmongery pieces should be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their fine design.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good order. Inattention to maintenance routinely could lead to:

sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

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

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

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

The industry of replacement windows has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their old windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. Many older timber windows can be repaired and used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window and door repair near me requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it could cause the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame, causing the sash not to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or fixed in the open position, which can let water and draughts enter the structure.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by water entry. This can be avoided by thorough painting, regular repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut out and the affected area should be carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same type of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric used in the first place and is among the least invasive ways to treat timber-to-timber rot.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is a viable alternative to traditional process of sanding or staining. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is especially beneficial for the treatment of pulley cords and sash, which can help prevent breakage.

It is crucial to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, like the sash latches and stays. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that fittings made of aluminum like sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.