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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

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

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

1. Aesthetics

In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are manufactured according to the modular imperial size Timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows in order to meet the current energy requirements and comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also comes with a window that is far superior to the uPVC 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 greater glass. In the 18th century, Sash windows were the most popular design of wood in the majority of British homes. Since they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.

Early windows were simple glass, but in the 17th century sash windows were becoming more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and cost-effective, they became a feature of many of the period homes.

In the 19th century, it became possible to make large, strong glasses that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be made bigger which, in turn, provided an improved view. This was an important advancement.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s.

The most common kind of sash is made from slow grown deal (pine) however oak was also used in more luxurious buildings and in some earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes and it is essential that it is maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. It is also crucial that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good working order as they help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency





As clearer and larger glass sheets became available, sash windows started replacing hinged casements. They were coated with plate glass that was placed within timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glass gradually replaced leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes created the need for a larger variety of ironmongery including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners used to keep the sashes to their the right place. These were usually decorated with designs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. However, if timber double glazed windows cambridge www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk are not maintained, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can also cause draughts. This issue can be fixed with wood-to-timber products.

The replacement window industry relies on the belief that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, whereas they can be maintained with a little attention. Repairs can be expensive and cause a lot of disruption in the home. Many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u from a huge "one-stop shop" installation company. They can replace and remove all the windows in a home within a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much quicker. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than a traditional sash window. Double-glazed windows aren't able to replicate the proportions and section of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery like sash chain, mortice bolts, and sash lock can be used. They can be fitted so that the window remains able to be opened for ventilation or for cleaning. These windows are typically unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used alongside traditional sash window catches, which are required to be replaced with more robust versions (such ones that have double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the risk of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more prestigious houses they were made from oak. When glazing bars have survived they should be kept and where feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced with matching wood. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on a complete home in one day, without involving other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

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

Sash windows were introduced and required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of leaded and wood. There were also a variety of types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces must be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their fine design.

To ensure they remain in good shape, timber windows need to be maintained. Lack of attention to them regularly can result in:

Sashes that do not move smoothly.

holes in the frame that admit water causing damage and decay.

break down of putty allowing water penetration, which could lead to decay of the frame and cill.

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

The industry of replacement windows has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their windows are rotten, draughty and beyond repair. The truth is that a lot of older timber windows are in good condition and with minor repairs could easily be repaired for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it can cause the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of the sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to become misaligned and not closing properly. The sash can also be stuck in its open position, which allows water and draughts to enter the property.

Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented by regular maintenance by thorough painting and eliminating the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. The sections that are rotting must be removed with care, and the affected area should be snared together or pieced together using replacements of the same kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric that was originally used and is among the most minimally invasive methods of treating the rot that occurs between timber and timber.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to traditional sanding and staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is especially useful for treating pulley cords and sash which can help prevent breakage.

It is essential that any ironmongery from the past such as sash stays and latches be kept and rehabilitated instead of being replaced. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided if at all feasible as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made of timber.