A Comprehensive Guide To Sash Windows Cambridge. Ultimate Guide To Sash Windows Cambridge How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows may become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture which can cause the timber to expand.

Box sash windows were traditionally operated by chains, cotton cords and weights made of lead. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Unlike PVC-u windows that are made according to imperial sizes that are modular Timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This lets the restoration be in line with modern energy requirements while complying with conservation areas regulations. It also offers windows with a more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became less expensive and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden design in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light into rooms without the use of curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass however, by the 17th Century sash windows started to become more ornamental. They were initially made of colored glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive initially, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were an integral feature in many homes of the period.

By the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, sturdy glass that did not need supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to be enlarged further and this in turn meant more of a view from the window. This was a very important innovation.

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

Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. A parting bead separates the two sashes, and it is vital that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and drafts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are crucial to the operation of the window.


2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as clearer and larger sheets were made available. They were coated with plate glass that was placed within timber frames with rebates and then pinned with glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This form of glazing gradually superseded leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to increased demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights and stoppers for sashes shutter hinges and handles as well as various fasteners used to secure the sashes. These were usually decorated with designs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they can become drafty and let in cold air. Putty and paint can also cause draughts. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber products.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the assumption that older windows are old and beyond economical repair, while they can be easily maintained with a bit of care. However, repairs to these windows can be expensive and involve substantial disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can take down and replace all the windows in a home in just one day, avoiding the need to co-ordinate different 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 made of sash. Double-glazed windows aren't able to replicate the proportions or section of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their aesthetics. A variety of ironmongery types can be installed, including sash chains, mortice bolts, and sash locks. They can be positioned in a way so that the window is able to be opened for ventilation and cleaning. They are usually not noticeable since they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catches. These should be replaced by more robust versions like those that incorporate double screws, or sprung levers in order to reduce the possibility of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames are usually made of oak or slow-grown deal. When glazing bars have survived they should be kept and, if possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by the same wood. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop installation service. They can remove and replace windows on an entire home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a large amount of light into buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were modified to allow more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also made. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with more elegance.

The introduction of sash windows also required the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood, and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be kept and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

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

Sashes that no longer slide easily.

Holes in the frame that allow water to get in and cause damage and decay.

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

Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s & I930s due to their strength and slim, cheap and matched the trend of healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient in thermal efficiency as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and are more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their traditional windows are old, dirty, and beyond economic repair. Many old timber windows can be fixed and used for a long time with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can lead to the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars, and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to move out of alignment and in a position that it is not able to close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or slammed into an open position, which can let water and draughts enter the property.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by water infiltration. This can be avoided with regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. cambridge double glazing repairmywindowsanddoors can be identified by the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be removed to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut out and the affected area carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same type of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximises the amount of fabric retained and is among the least invasive methods of treating timber-to-timber decay.

A resin-based wood condenser is an alternative to the traditional process of sanding or staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is especially beneficial for treating pulley cords and sash where it can prevent breakage.

It is crucial to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery such as sash latches and stays. These items can be very difficult to replace without damaging the the original design. It is also recommended that fittings made of aluminum, such as sashlifts and chainstays, are avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.