How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of how they appear. However, sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture that can cause the timber to expand.

Traditionally, window boxes utilised chains or cotton cords and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to address this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed according to imperial sizes that are modular the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows in order to meet current energy requirements and comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also provides a window with a far superior appearance than upvc repairs near me alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, but this changed as production became cheaper and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. By the late 18th century Sash windows were the most popular design of wood in the majority of British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light into rooms without the use of curtains.

The early windows were made of clear glass However, by the 17th Century sash windows started to become more attractive. They started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and cheaper they became a part of many of the period homes.

In the 19th century, it became possible to create large, sturdy glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be made bigger, which in turn gave the viewer a better view. This was a significant improvement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that occurred in the I920s and beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s.

The most popular type of sash is constructed of slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was utilized in more prestigious buildings and in some earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes. It is essential that it is maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. It is also essential that sash pulleys and idler wheels are in good condition as these aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets became available. Plate glass was set into rebated timber frames, pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on the frame's two sides for watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to increased demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers shutter hinges and handles as well as various fasteners used to secure the sashes. These were often decorated in patterns, inscriptions and engravings to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be very energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. If they are not maintained, they can become draughty. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. This can be corrected using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the belief that old windows are damaged beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a little attention. These repairs can be costly and cause a lot of disruption in the home. To avoid this, many homeowners prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a home in one day, thereby saving time and avoiding the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be fitted with 'energy-saving' double-glazing to get higher energy efficiency ratings than are possible with traditional sash windows. 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 style. Ironmongery such as sash chain, mortice bolts and sash locks can be used. These can be put in place in a way that the window is able to be opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. These are typically not noticeable, since they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used with traditional sash window catches. They should be replaced with more robust versions like those with double glazed door repairs screws or spring levers, to minimize 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, they should be retained. Where feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced by wood that is in line with. PVC-U companies usually offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes 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

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a large amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were adapted to allow more light into rooms, and larger glazing panes began to be manufactured. The result was a more streamlined appearance, and windows with a higher degree of elegance than before.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and leaded. There were also different kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. These ironmongery elements should always be kept 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 slide easily.

holes in the frame that allow water, which can cause damage and decay.

break down of the putty and allow water penetration that could cause decay in the frame and cill.

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

The window replacement industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten, drafty and beyond economical repair. Many older timber windows can be fixed and used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to 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 become damaged. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movements within the frame, which can cause the sash to not close correctly. The sash can also be stuck in an open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the building.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by water penetration. This can be prevented by regular maintenance by thorough painting and eliminating the source of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified by the wavy appearance of the paint that can be stripped away to reveal soft, rotting timber. The rotten timber sections must be removed with care and the affected area should be scarfed together or pieced together with replacements of the exact kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric that was originally used and is among the most minimally invasive methods of treating wood-to-timber rot.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is another alternative to traditional sanding and staining. It is brushed on the surface of the timber to help stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulley cords and sash, which can stop breakage.

It is essential that any ironmongery from the past such as sash stay and latches be kept and rehabilitated instead of being replacing them. These items are difficult to replace without harming the quality of the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings such as chain stays and sash lifts should be avoided if possible as they can cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.