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 or shut. This is typically due to moisture that can cause the wood to expand.

Box sash windows were historically operated using chains or cotton cords as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to overcome this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes and are modular, can be restored to original dimensions. This lets the restoration be in line with modern energy requirements while still complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also provides a window replacement cambridge repairs Near me (https://trade-britanica.trade/wiki/10_Things_You_Learned_In_Kindergarden_Which_Will_Aid_You_In_Obtaining_Door_Hinge_Repair_Cambridge) with a far superior appearance than the upvc window renovation alternatives.

Sliding sash window frames were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However the production became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. By the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant design of wood in the majority of British properties. Since they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.

Early windows were plain glass, but in the 17th century sash windows were becoming more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and cheaper they became a part of numerous period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to produce large, strong glasses that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be made larger and, in turn, gave a better view. This was an important innovation.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of the I920s and beginning of I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously and gave improved ventilation to the building.

The most popular kind of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more luxurious buildings and in some earlier examples. A split bead divides the two sashes. It is essential that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and drafts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are also essential for the proper operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As larger and clearer sheets of glass were made available, sash windows began to replace hinged casements. Plate glass was placed in frames of timber that were rebated, then which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was applied to both sides of the frame to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

The introduction of sashes led to an need for a wider range of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges, knobs and shutters, and a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes into the right place. They were often decorated with designs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. However, without this maintenance they can become draughty and let in cold air. Putty and paint can also cause draughts. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber products.

The replacement window industry relies on the belief that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, while they are able to be maintained with a little attention. These repairs can be expensive and cause lots of disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, thereby saving time and eliminating the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving' double glazing cambridge glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows with sash. However double-glazed windows cannot replicate the section and proportions of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery like mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be installed. These can be installed in a manner that the window can be open for ventilation and cleaning. These are typically not noticeable, since they are designed to complement the sash window maintenance. They can be used with traditional sash window catches. These are best replaced with more robust models, such as ones that have double screws or sprung levers in order to reduce the possibility of being hammered.

Sash-window frames are traditionally constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are still intact and are not damaged, they should be left. If feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. PVC-u companies often provide a one-stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows on a complete home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a significant amount of light into buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were modified to let even more light into rooms, and bigger glazing panes started to be manufactured. The result was a much more streamlined appearance, and windows with a greater quality of design than before.

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

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

Sashes that do not slide smoothly.

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

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

Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s and I930s because they were sturdy and slim, cost-effective and complemented the trend for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash windows are just as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The window replacement industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were rotten drafty, noisy and beyond repair. The truth is that a lot of old windows made of timber are in good shape and with minor upvc repairs near me could easily be maintained for years to come.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it can result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It could also cause paint and putty deteriorate. The removal of the sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to be misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. The sash may also become stuck in the open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the building.

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 expose the soft, decaying wood. Any rotten sections of timber must be removed and the affected area carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same kind of timber as those remaining. This repair method increases the amount of fabric that was originally used and is among the least invasive ways to treat timber-to-timber rot.

A wood condenser made of resin is a viable alternative to traditional sanding or staining. This is brushed onto the surface of the wood to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is especially beneficial for treating pulley cords and sash, which can stop breakage.

It is crucial to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, such as sash latches and stays. These items can be very difficult to replace without damaging the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that fittings made of aluminum, such as sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.