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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 look. Sash windows can get stuck and become difficult to open or shut. This is typically due to moisture which can cause the wood to expand.

Traditionally, window boxes used chains, cotton cords or lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to overcome this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes and are modular, can be restored to their original size. This lets the restoration be in line with modern energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation area regulations. It also offers windows that have a superior appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, however the production process became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden style in British homes. Because they were simple to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.

Early windows were plain glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows began to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. These were very expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and less expensive, they were a common feature in many of the period homes.

In the 19th century, it was possible to produce large, sturdy glasses that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame to be made larger and, in turn, gave the viewer a better view. This was a significant improvement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that occurred in the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously, and gave improved ventilation to a building.

The most commonly used type of sash is made from slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was used in the more expensive buildings as well as in earlier examples. A split bead divides the two sashes, and it is important that this is maintained in order to avoid rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers also are crucial for the proper operation of the Window repairs Cambridge.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets were made available. They were glazed with plate glass placed within timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This type of glass gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes led to the need for a larger variety of ironmongery with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, knobs and shutters and a variety of fasteners to hold the sashes in the right place. These were often decorated in motifs, inscriptions, and engravings to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. Without this maintenance they can get drafty. Paint and putty can cause draughts. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber solutions.

The replacement window repair cambridge industry relies on the belief that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, while they can be easily maintained with just a little care. These repairs can be expensive and cause many disruptions in the home. To prevent this, many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the large 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, thereby saving time and avoiding the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double glazing repair in cambridge glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows made of sash. These double glazing in cambridge-glazed windows aren't able to replicate the proportions and section of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their style. Ironmongery like sash chain, mortice bolts and sash door locks cambridge can be put in place. They can be positioned in such a way that the window can still be opened 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 must be replaced by more robust models (such ones with double screws) or spring levers to decrease the chance of them being hammered out.

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

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a significant amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were modified to let even more light into rooms and bigger glazing panes started to be produced. The result was a lighter appearance and windows that were more elegant.

The introduction of sash windows also required a new range of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, while later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good shape. A lack of regular attention could lead to:

Sashes that don't slide effortlessly.

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

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

In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their durability, slim and cheap, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows are just as thermally efficient as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows.

The replacement window industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their old windows are rotten, draughty and beyond economic repair. Many older timber windows can be fixed and used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and window Repairs cambridge inspection. Failure to do this can lead to sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes could also cause structural movement in the frame, which can cause the sash not to close properly. The sash can also be stuck in its open position, which allows water and draughts into the building.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented by regular maintenance as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut off and the affected part carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same type of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric used in the first place and is one of most minimally invasive methods of treating the rot that occurs between timber and timber.

A resin-based wood condenser is a viable alternative to traditional sanding or staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the timber to stabilise and protect it from further damage. It is especially useful to treat sash and pulley cords, which can stop breakage.

It is essential that any ironmongery from the past such as sash stays and latches are kept and restored instead of replacing them. These items are difficult to replace without harming the the original design. It is also recommended that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts and chainstays, are avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.