15 Presents For Those Who Are The Sash Windows Cambridge Lover In Your Life How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

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

Traditionally, window boxes utilised chains or cotton cord and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to overcome this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes and are modular, can be restored to original dimensions. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also gives windows with a more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, but this changed as production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to produce larger frames with more glass. By the late 18th century sash windows were the dominant wooden design in most British properties. Sash windows were easy to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the need for curtains.

Early windows were simple glass, but by the 17th century sash windows were becoming more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the time but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they became a feature of many of the period homes.

In the 19th century, it was possible to manufacture large, strong glass that did not need support bars. This allowed for the frame to be enlarged, which in turn gave an improved view. This was a significant innovation.

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 was a important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.

Oak was used in older examples and for more prestigious buildings. It is essential to keep the parting bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will help prevent rattles and draughts. It is also crucial that sash pulleys and idler wheels are in good condition as these help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets were made available. They were coated with plate glass that was placed within timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to ensure they were 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 with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops, shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes into place. These were often decorated in motifs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker.

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

The replacement window industry relies heavily on the belief that old windows are damaged beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. However, repairs to these windows can be expensive and involve considerable disruption to the 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 eliminating the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be fitted with 'energy saving' double-glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than those offered by traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. double glazed door repairs is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their style. Many types of ironmongery can be fitted, including sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. These can be installed in a way that the window is still open to allow ventilation or cleaning. They are usually discrete since they are made to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches, which are required to be replaced with more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the possibility of them being hammered out.

Sash-window frames are usually made of oak or slow-grown deal. If glazing bars have survived, they should be preserved, and where feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced by identical wood. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take down and replace windows on an entire home in one day, without involving other tradespeople.


4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light to flood into buildings. By the end 18th century, they had been modified so that more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with a greater level of elegance than they had before.

Sash windows were introduced and required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and lead, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their exquisite design.

To keep them in good shape, timber windows require regular maintenance. A lack of regular attention can lead to:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

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

break down of putty, allowing water to penetrate, which could lead to decay of the frame and cill.

Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s and I930s because they were strong and slim, cost-effective and matched the trend towards healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash window are just as effective as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The replacement window industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. Many old windows made of timber can be repaired and used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your window's sash, it could lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause the paint and putty to become damaged. The removal of sashes can also cause structural movement in the frame, causing the sash to not close correctly. The sash could also get stuck in an open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the property.

The damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture entry. This can be avoided by thorough painting, regular repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. Any timber that is rotting should be cut off and the affected part carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same kind of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximises the amount of fabric left, and is one of the least invasive methods of treating decay caused by timber.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to traditional sanding and staining. It is brushed on the surface of the wood to help stabilize it and protect it from further damage. 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, like stay latches and sash latches. These items can be very difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is also advised 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.