How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open and close. This is usually due moisture, which can cause the wood to expand.

Traditionally, box sash windows used chains or cotton cord and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes and are modular, are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows in order to meet the current energy requirements and to comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also provides windows with a more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used for large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames using larger glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden windows and doors Cambridge style in British homes. As they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

The first windows were made of glass that was plain However, by the 17th Century the sash windows began to be more decorative. They were initially made of colored glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at the beginning but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were commonplace in many homes of the period.

In the 19th century, it became possible to create large, sturdy glasses that didn't require support bars. This allowed for the frame to be made bigger which, in turn, provided the viewer a better view. This was an important improvement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and gave improved ventilation to a building.

Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead which divides the sashes. This will stop rattles and draughts. The sash window repair cambridge pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are also essential for the proper operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As larger and clearer glass sheets became available, sash windows began replacing hinged casements. Plate glass was set into frames of timber that were rebated, then secured with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to both sides of the frame to ensure watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to a greater demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges, and a variety of fasteners used to secure the sashes. They were often decorated with designs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

Sash windows are energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. However, without this maintenance they can become draughty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. It is possible to fix this issue with wood-to-timber products.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the belief that older windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a bit of attention. However, repairs to these windows can be expensive and involve considerable disruption to the home. To prevent this homeowners, many choose to replace their wooden windows cambridge with PVC-u windows made by one of the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in a single day, saving time and avoiding the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than traditional windows with sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to replicate the section and proportions of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their style. Many types of ironmongery are available, including sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. They can be positioned in a way so that the window can still be opened for ventilation and cleaning. They are generally not noticeable, since they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches and must be replaced by more robust versions (such ones with double screws) or spring levers to decrease the risk of them being hammered open.

(Image: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Window-Repairs.-150x150.jpg)Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow grown deal or, in more prestigious houses they were made from oak. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept and, if feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. Many PVC-U firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on a complete house in just one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a substantial amount of light to flood into the buildings. In the 18th century, they had been modified to allow more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also produced. The result was a much more streamlined appearance, and windows that had a higher quality of design than before.

Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a combination of wood and lead, and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces must be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their fine design.

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

Sashes that do not move easily.

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

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

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity because they were strong slim and inexpensive and were in line with the trend for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash window repair are just as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

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

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this could result in broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of the sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to move out of alignment and not closing properly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or fixed in an open position and this can let water and draughts into the property.

Damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented with thorough painting, periodic repairs and elimination of the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. The sections that are rotting must be removed with care and the affected part should be snared together or glued together with replacements of the exact kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair increases the amount original fabric and is among the least invasive ways to treat timber-to-timber rot.

A resin-based wood condenser is an alternative to the traditional sanding or staining. This is brushed onto the surface of the timber to stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is especially useful for treating pulley cords and sash, where it can prevent breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery, such as sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without damaging the the original design. It is also recommended that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts and chainstays, are avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.