How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

(Image: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Replacement-Windows-150x150.jpg)Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and are difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture that can cause the timber to expand.

Traditionally, window boxes utilized chains or cotton cords and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to solve this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Unlike PVC-u windows that are made to modular imperial sizes Timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration to be in line with modern energy requirements while still complying with conservation area regulations. It also comes with a window that is far superior to the Upvc Window Renovation alternatives.

Sliding sash window frames were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames using more glass. By the late 18th century sash windows were the dominant design of wood in the majority of British properties. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light in rooms without the use of curtains.

The early windows were made of clear glass, but in the 17th century sash windows started to be more decorative. They began with colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were costly at the beginning but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were an integral feature in many homes of the period.

In the 19th century, it was possible to produce large, strong glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be made larger which, in turn, provided an improved view. This was a significant advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s.

Oak was used for older and more luxurious buildings. It is essential to keep the parting bead which separates the sashes. This will stop rattles and draughts. It is also crucial that sash pulleys and idler wheels are in good shape as they help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger sheets of glass became available, sash windows began replacing hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass set within rebated timber frames and then pinned with glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glass gradually replaced led lights.

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

With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they can become draughty and let in cold air. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of paint and putty. This can be corrected making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the notion that old windows are damaged beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs can be expensive and involve substantial disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a huge ”one-stop shop” company for installation. They can replace and remove all the windows in a home in a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much quicker. They are also available with 'energy saving' double-glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than those offered by traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed units are not able to replicate the proportions or section of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their style. Ironmongery, such as sash chain, mortice bolts, and sash lock can be installed. They can be fitted in a way that the window repair near me remains able to be opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. They are generally unobtrusive, as they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. These are best replaced with more robust models like ones that have double screws or sprung levers, to minimize the chance of being hit with hammers.

Sash-window frames are typically made of oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are still intact, they should be retained. If it is feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced with wood that matches. PVC-u companies typically provide a one-stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows across a home in one day, without the need to engage other tradespeople or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a significant amount of light to flood into structures. At the end of the 18th century, they were modified to let even more light into rooms, and larger glass repair cambridge panes began to be manufactured. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with more elegance.

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

Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good condition. A lack of regular attention could lead to:

Sashes that don't slide easily.

holes in the frame allow water causing damage and decay.

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

Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s and I930s because they were sturdy and slim, cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash windows are just as effective as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their old windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. The reality is that many old timber windows are in good shape and with minor repairs can easily be maintained for years to come.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your sash window repairs cambridge, it can result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movements within the frame, causing the sash not to close properly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or slammed into an open position, which can let water and draughts enter the property.

Damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture infiltration. This can be avoided by regular repairs, thorough painting and removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be removed to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any timber that is rotting should be cut off and the affected area should be carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made of the same type of wood as those remaining. This method of repair increases the amount of original fabric left, and is among the least invasive ways of treating timber-to-timber decay.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is an alternative to the traditional method of sanding and staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is especially beneficial to treat pulley cords and sash where it can prevent breakage.

It is important that any ironmongery from the past such as sash stay and latches are retained and restored rather than replaced. These items are difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings, such as chain stays and sash lifts should be avoided if feasible as they could cause corrosion and deterioration to frames and sashes made of timber.