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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of the way they look. However, sash windows can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture which can cause the wood to expand.

Box sash windows were previously operated using chains, cotton cords and lead weights. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to address this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are manufactured to modular imperial sizes the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original size. This lets the restoration meet the current energy standards while still complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also comes with an option that is superior to the uPVC alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However the production became more affordable and artisans could produce larger frames with more glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light into rooms without the use of curtains.

Early windows were plain glass but by the 17th century, sash windows started to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at first, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were commonplace in many period houses.

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

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that occurred in the I920s and the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and allowed for better ventilation to buildings.

The most commonly used kind of sash is made from slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was also used in more prestigious buildings and in some earlier examples. A split bead divides the two sashes and it is essential that it is well maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good working order as they help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets became available. Plate glass was set into frames made of timber, which were secured with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on the frame's two sides to ensure watertightness. This form of glazing gradually superseded the leaded light bulbs.

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

With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. However, if they are not maintained, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty may cause draughts too. It is possible to fix this issue with wood-to-timber products.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the perception that old windows are damaged beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However double glazing repairs cambridge can be maintained with a bit of attention. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause considerable disruption to the home. To prevent this homeowners, many prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the large "one stop shop" installation companies. These can remove and replace all the windows in a home within a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the whole process much faster. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows with sash. However, these double-glazed units cannot duplicate the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery, such as sash chain, mortice bolts, and sash lock can be installed. These can be installed in such a way that the window can be open for ventilation and cleaning. These windows are typically unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches that are required to be replaced with more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the chance of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow grown deal or, in more prestigious houses, from oak. When glazing bars have survived they should be kept and, if possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by matching wood. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows across a home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various 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 had been modified to allow more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a much more streamlined appearance, and windows that had a higher degree of elegance than before.

Sash windows were introduced, which required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of leaded and wood. There were also a variety of kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. The ironmongery components should be kept and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.





Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good order. Lack of regular attention may lead to:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

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

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

In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows gained popularity due to their strength slim and inexpensive, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash window are as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The replacement window industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. Many old timber windows are repairable and can be used for a long time with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your sash window, it can cause the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of the sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to be misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or fixed in an open position and this can let water and draughts into the property.

Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided by regular maintenance by thorough painting and eliminating the cause of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified by the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped to reveal soft, rotting wood. The sections of timber that are rotten must be removed with care and the affected area should be scarfed 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 most minimally invasive methods of treating wood-to-timber rot.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to the traditional method of sanding and staining. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is particularly useful in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which can help prevent breakage.

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