How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

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

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

1. Aesthetics

Unlike PVC-u windows that are manufactured to modular imperial sizes, timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This allows for the restoration of timber sash wooden windows and doors cambridge in order to meet current energy requirements and comply with conservation area regulations. It also provides windows that are superior to upvc doors repairs options.

Sliding sash windows were originally only used in large buildings or public buildings, but this changed as production 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 Windows cambridge design in British homes. Since they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.

The first windows were made of clear glass, but by the 17th Century sash windows started to become more attractive. They were initially made of colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they were a common feature in numerous period houses.

In the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, strong glass that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to be enlarged further, which meant more of a view out of the window. This was a significant advancement.

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

Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is important to maintain the separation bead that separates the sashes. This will help prevent rattles and draughts. It is also important that sash pulleys and idler wheels are in good working order as they aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As larger and clearer sheets of glass became available, sash window started replacing hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass placed within timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This kind of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to increased demand for ironmongery. The most common fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers, shutter hinges and handles as well as a variety of fasteners to fix the sashes. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engravings that identified the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. But, if you don't maintain them, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can cause draughts. This can be corrected using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The replacement window industry relies heavily on the perception that old windows are damaged beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs can be expensive and involve significant disruption to your home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows with PVC-u from a "one-stop shop" installation company. They can replace all windows in a home in one day, thereby saving time and avoiding the need for various tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be supplied with 'energy-saving' double-glazing, which can achieve greater energy efficiency than traditional sash windows. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions and sections of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their style. Ironmongery like sash chain, mortice bolts, and sash lock can be used. They can be positioned in a way so that the window can be opened for ventilation and cleaning. They are generally unobtrusive, as they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. These should be replaced by more robust models like ones that have double screws or spring levers, to minimize the risk of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames were made from slow-growing deal or, in more luxurious homes made of oak. If the glazing bars remain in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. If it is feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. PVC-U companies usually provide a one-stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows across a house in a day without the need to involve other tradespeople or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a huge amount of light into buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were adapted so that even more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also created. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with a higher quality of design than before.

The introduction of sash windows also required a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, whereas later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be retained and cleaned down to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good condition. Lack of attention to them regularly could lead to:

Sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

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

break down of the putty and allow water penetration that could lead to decay of the frame and cill.

Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s & I930s because they were sturdy and slim, and also because they were cheap and matched the trend of healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash windows are as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may 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 reality is that many old timber windows are in good condition and with minor repairs could easily be serviceable for many years to be.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do this can lead to broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movements within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close properly. The sash may also become stuck in an open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the building.

Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be avoided by careful painting, regular repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. Any timber that is rotting must be removed and the affected area carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made of the same kind of timber as the ones that remain. This method of repair maximises the amount of fabric retained and is among the least invasive ways of treating timber-to-timber decay.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to the traditional process of sanding or staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the wood to help stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which help prevent the breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery, like the sash latches and stays. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that fittings made of aluminum, such as sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.