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 look. However, sash windows may get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture which can cause the wood to expand.

Traditionally, windows made of box sash used chains or cotton cord and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to address this issue.

1. Aesthetics

In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are made according to imperial sizes that are modular Timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration to meet the current energy standards while complying with conservation area regulations. It also comes with a window repair cambridge that is far superior to upvc window repairs near me options.

Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, but this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows were the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the use of curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows started to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at first, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were commonplace in many historic homes.

In the 19th century it was possible to create large, sturdy glass that did not need supporting bars. This allowed the frame’s size to be increased even further and this in turn meant more of a view out of the window seal repairs. This was an important improvement.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s.

Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead that separates the sashes. This will help prevent rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers are also crucial to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets became available. Glass plates were set in frames of timber that were rebated, then pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to the frame’s two sides to ensure watertightness. This form of glazing gradually superseded leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to an increase in demand for ironmongery. The most common fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges, and a variety of fasteners to secure the sashes. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and designs that were engraved to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. If they are not maintained they can get drafty. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of putty and paint. This can be corrected 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 are not able to be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows can be expensive and involve substantial disruption to the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows using PVC-u from a large “one-stop shop” company for installation. They can take down and replace all the windows in a house within a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much more efficient. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving’ double glazing to achieve higher energy ratings than the traditional windows made of sash. However these double Glazing near me-glazed units are unable to duplicate the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their appearance. 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 is still able to be opened for ventilation or for cleaning. They are usually unobtrusive as they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catches. They should be replaced by more robust versions like ones that have double glazed door seal repairs screws or sprung levers in order to reduce the risk of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow grown deal or, in more elegant homes made of oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept, and if it is it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. PVC-u companies often offer a one stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows on a complete house in a day without the need to engage other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a large amount of light to flood into structures. At the end of the 18th century, they were modified to allow more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also created. The result was a lighter look and windows that were more elegant.

Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and lead, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be maintained and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

To keep them in good condition, wooden windows need to be maintained. A lack of attention to them regularly could result in:

Sashes that do not move effortlessly.

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

break down of putty, allowing water penetration, which could lead to decay of the frame and cill.

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

The replacement window industry has done a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. Many old timber windows can be repaired and used for a long time with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do this could result in the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars, and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to move out of alignment and unable to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or fixed in the open position and let water and draughts into the property.

Damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture entry. This can be avoided by careful painting, regular repairs, and removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, decaying wood. Any timber that is rotting should be cut off and the affected area carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same kind of timber as the ones that remain. This repair method increases the amount of fabric used in the first place and is one of least invasive ways to treat wood-to-timber rot.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to traditional staining and sanding. The product is brushed on to the surface of the wood to help stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful for the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which can help prevent the breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any historical ironmongery, like stay latches and sash latches. It can be difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also advised that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.