20 Best Tweets Of All Time Sash Windows Cambridge How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

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

Box sash windows were historically operated using chains or cotton cords as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to overcome this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes, which are modular, can be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows to comply with current energy standards and to comply with conservation area regulations. It also offers a window with a far superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally intended for large structures or public buildings. However, this changed when production became cheaper and artisans could create larger frames using more glass. In the 18th century, Sash windows were the most popular design of wood in the majority of British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

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

In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, strong glass that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame to be enlarged and, in turn, gave a better view. This was a significant advancement.

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

The most common type of sash is made from slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more expensive buildings as well as in earlier examples. It is important to maintain the separation bead that divides the sashes. This will prevent rattles and draughts. It is also crucial that sash pulleys and idler wheels are in good shape as they help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets were made available. Plate glass was placed in rebated timber frames, pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on the frame's sides to ensure watertightness. This form of glazing gradually superseded led lights.

The introduction of sashes created a need for a much wider range 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 range of fasteners to hold the sashes to their the right place. They were often decorated with patterns, inscriptions and patterns engraved to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of putty and paint. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber solutions.

The market for replacement windows rests on the perception that older windows are old and beyond repair, but they can be maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause significant disruption to your home. To avoid this homeowners, many opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows made by one of the large 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace and remove all the windows in an entire house in just one day, avoiding the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much quicker. They can also be fitted with 'energy-saving' double-glazing, which can achieve more energy efficient ratings than are possible with traditional windows made of sash. Double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions or section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their style. Ironmongery like mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be used. These can be put in place so that the window is still open for ventilation or for cleaning. They are generally minimal in appearance, as they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used alongside traditional sash-window catches and must be replaced by more robust models (such ones with double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the risk of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames were typically made from slow-growing deal or, in more luxurious homes made of oak. If glazing bars have survived, they should be preserved, and if it is feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on an entire home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.


4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a large amount of light into the buildings. At wooden windows and doors cambridge of the 18th century, they were modified so that more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a much lighter appearance, and windows that had a higher level of elegance than they had before.

Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, while later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces must be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design.

To ensure they remain in good condition, wooden windows need to be maintained. Inattention to maintenance can lead to:

sashes that no longer slide easily.

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 the cill.

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

The industry of replacement windows did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed drafty, noisy and beyond repair. However, many older timber windows are in good condition and with minor repairs can easily be repaired for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do this can result in sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movements within the frame, which can cause the sash to not close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or slammed into an open position and let water and draughts in the property.

The damage to timber windows is often caused by water infiltration. This can be prevented by regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified due to the wavy appearance of the existing paint which can be stripped away to reveal rotting, soft timber. The sections that are rotting must be removed with care and the affected part should be scarfed or glued together using replacements of the same nature as the rest of the timber. This method of repair maximises the amount of fabric that is left and is among the least invasive methods of treating timber-to-timber decay.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to traditional sanding and staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the timber to help stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is especially useful to treat pulley cords and sash, which can stop breakage.

It is important that any historic ironmongery such as sash stays and latches are retained and restored rather than replacing them. These items are difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is also recommended that fittings made of aluminum like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, be avoided as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.