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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 how they appear. However, sash windows can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is often due moisture which can cause the timber to expand.

Box sash windows were historically operated by chains or cotton cords, as well as lead weights. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to overcome this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are manufactured according to imperial sizes that are modular Timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. window repair specialists permits the re-installation of timber sash windows in order to comply with current energy standards and to comply with conservation area regulations. It also comes with windows that are superior to the uPVC options.

Sliding windows with sash were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However, this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames using more glass. In the late 18th century Sash windows were the most popular wooden style in a majority of British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light in rooms without the use of curtains.

The early windows were made of glass that was plain however, by the 17th Century, sash windows began to be more decorative. They started with coloured glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were costly at first, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became commonplace in many period houses.

In the 19th century, it became possible to produce large, sturdy glasses that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame's size to be increased even further and this in turn allowed for a wider view out of the window. This was a very important improvement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s.

The most popular type of sash is constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was used in the more prestigious buildings and in earlier examples. It is important to maintain the parting bead that divides the sashes. This will stop draughts and rattles. It is also important that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good working order as they aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets became available. Glass plates were set in rebated timber frames, which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was then sprayed onto both sides of the frame to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually superseded led lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to an increase in demand for ironmongery. The most common fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges and a variety of fasteners to fix the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or designs that were engraved to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. Without this maintenance, they can become draughty. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. This can be corrected using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the perception that old windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a little attention. Repairs can be expensive and cause many disruptions in the home. To avoid this, many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the large 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and avoiding the need for various tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be fitted with 'energy saving' double-glazing to get greater energy efficiency than those offered by traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions and sections of historic timber sashes.

3. Security





Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their style. There are many types of ironmongery that can be installed including sash chains mortice bolts, and sash locks. These can be installed in a manner that the window is able to be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These products are often not noticeable since they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches and must be replaced by more robust versions (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the chance of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames are traditionally made of oak or slow-grown deal. When glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and, if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on an entire home in a single day, without involving any other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a significant amount of light into the buildings. At the end of the 18th century they were modified to let even more light into rooms, and larger glazing panes began to be produced. The result was a more light appearance and windows that were more elegant.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded a new range of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, whereas later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be maintained and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. Inattention to maintenance routinely could lead to:

Sashes that do not slide smoothly.

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

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

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their durability slim and inexpensive, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash window are just as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The industry of replacement windows has done a lot to convince homeowners that their windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. Many older timber windows can be repaired and utilized for a longer period with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do this can lead to the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars, and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to become misaligned and unable to close correctly. The sash could also get stuck in the open position, allowing water and draughts into the building.

Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be prevented by regular repairs by thorough painting and eliminating the source of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified by the wavy look of the existing 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 snared together or pieced together with replacements of the exact kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric left, and is among the least invasive ways of treating timber-to-timber decay.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to the traditional method of staining and sanding. The product 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 essential that any ironmongery from the past such as sash stay and latches are kept and restored rather than replacing them. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings like chain stays and sash lifts should be avoided if possible as they can cause corrosion and deterioration to frames and sashes made from timber.