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 get stuck and become difficult to open or shut. This is typically due to moisture that can cause the wood to swell.

Traditionally, box sash windows used chains or cotton cords and weights made of lead to operate. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to avoid this issue.

1. Aesthetics

In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are made according to the modular imperial size Timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This lets the restoration meet the current energy standards while still complying with conservation area regulations. It also comes with windows that are superior to uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash window frames were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However this changed as production became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with greater glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most sought-after wooden windows and doors cambridge style in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the need for curtains.

Early windows were simple glass, but by the 17th century sash windows were becoming more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. These were very expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they became a feature of many of the period homes.

In the 19th century, it became possible to produce large, strong glasses that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to be enlarged further, which gave a better view from the window. This was a significant innovation.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another significant improvement that came about in the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened at the same time and gave improved ventilation to buildings.

Oak was used for older examples and for more prestigious buildings. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes. It is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good shape as they help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger glass sheets became available, sash window Hinges leeds began to replace hinged casements. Plate glass was placed in frames of timber that were rebated, then pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was then sprayed onto the frame's sides for watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced leaded lights.

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

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. If they are not maintained, they can become drafty. Paint and putty can also cause draughts. This can be corrected 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 economical repair, but they are able to be maintained with a little attention. These repairs can be expensive and cause many disruptions in the home. To prevent this homeowners often opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows made by one of the large ”one-stop shop” installation companies. They can take down and replace all windows in an entire house within a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much more efficient. They can also be supplied with 'energy-saving' double-glazing to get greater energy efficiency than those offered by traditional sash windows. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions or section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their appearance. Many types of ironmongery can be installed with sash chains, mortice bolts and sash locks. These can be put in place in a way that the window remains open to allow ventilation or cleaning. They are usually not noticeable since they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catches. They are best replaced with more robust versions like those with double screws or sprung levers to decrease the chance of being hammered.

Sash-window frames are traditionally made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are in good condition and in good condition, they should be kept. Where it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced by wood that matches. PVC-u companies often provide 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 coordinate 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 to flood into buildings. In the 18th century, they were adapted so that even more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also created. The result was a more light appearance and windows with more elegance.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and leaded. There were also a variety of kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be maintained and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

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

Sashes that do not move easily.

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

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

Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s and I930s due to their strength and slim, and also because they were cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash window are as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The replacement window mechnism repair industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their traditional windows are rotten, draughty and beyond economic repair. Many old timber windows can be repaired and used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do this can lead to sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movements within the frame, causing the sash to not close correctly. The sash could also get stuck in its open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the property.

Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be prevented with thorough painting, periodic repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, decaying wood. The sections of timber that are rotten should be carefully cut out and the affected area should be scarfed or pieced together with replacements of the exact nature as the rest of the timber. This method of door seal repair near me increases the amount of fabric that is left and is one of the least invasive methods of treating timber-to-timber decay.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to traditional sanding and staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the wood to stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful for treating pulley cords and sash where it can prevent breakage.

(Image: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Replacement-Windows-150x150.jpg)It is essential to preserve and not replace any historical ironmongery, such as stay latches and sash latches. These items are difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings, such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided whenever feasible as they could cause corrosion and damage to frames and sashes made from timber.