20 Fun Facts About Sash Windows Cambridge How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

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

Box sash windows were previously operated with chains or cotton cords as well as lead weights. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to solve this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes and are modular, can be reconstructed to original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows to meet the current energy requirements and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also provides windows that are superior to the uPVC options.

Sliding sash window frames were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However the production became cheaper and artisans could make larger frames using larger glass. In the 18th century, sash windows were the dominant design of wood in the majority of British homes. Because they were simple to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.

Early windows were plain glass but by the 17th century, sash windows were becoming more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time but as glass production improved and less expensive, they became a part of numerous period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, strong glasses that didn't require support bars. upvc windows cambridge allowed the frame size to be enlarged further and this in turn meant more of a view from the window. This was an important innovation.

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

Oak was used in older and more luxurious buildings. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will stop draughts and rattles. It is also crucial that sash pulleys and idler wheels are in good shape as they aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets were made available. They were made of plate glass, set in timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes created a need for a much larger variety of ironmongery including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, knobs and shutters, and a range of fasteners to hold the sashes in the right place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and designs that were engraved to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. Without this maintenance they can get drafty. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of putty and paint. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber solutions.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the notion that old windows are beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. These repairs can be expensive and cause lots of disruption to the home. To avoid this, many homeowners opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one the large "one stop shop" installation companies. They can replace and remove all the windows in an entire house within a single day, avoiding the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much quicker. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than the traditional sash window. However, these double-glazed units cannot duplicate the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their style. Many types of ironmongery can be installed including sash chains mortice bolts and sash locks. They can be fitted so that the window remains capable of being opened for ventilation or for cleaning. These products are usually unobtrusive, as they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. These should be replaced with more robust versions, such as ones that have double screws or sprung levers in order to reduce the possibility of being hammered.

Sash-window frames are usually constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept and, if feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced by matching wood. PVC-u companies typically provide a one-stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on an entire home in a single day without the need to engage other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a huge amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. At the end of the 18th century they were modified to let more light into rooms and larger glass panes began to be produced. The result was a lighter look and windows that were more elegant.

Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, whereas later Victorian ones were made from brass or a mixture 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.

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

Sashes that do not slide easily.

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

break down of the putty and allow water to penetrate, which can lead to decay in the frame and cill.

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows gained popularity due to their strength slim and inexpensive and were in line with the trend for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are just as thermally efficient as double-glazed PVC-u windows and may be more appealing than the modern sleek design of casement windows.

The window replacement industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were rotten drafty, noisy and beyond repair. However, many older timber windows are in good shape and with minor repairs could easily be repaired for many years to come.


5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do this can lead to broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame, which can cause the sash to not close properly. The sash can also be stuck in the open position, which allows water and draughts into the property.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by water entry. This can be prevented with thorough painting, regular repairs and elimination of the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. The sections that are rotting must be removed with care and the affected area should be snared together or glued together using replacements of the same type as the remaining timber. This method of repair maximises the amount of fabric retained and is one of the least invasive ways of treating decay of timber to timber.

A wood condenser made of resin is a viable alternative to traditional staining or sanding. This is brushed onto the surface of the wood to stabilise and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which help prevent breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any old ironmongery, such as sash latches and stays. It is difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings such as sash lifts and chain stays should be avoided if possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made of timber.