10 Misconceptions Your Boss Shares Regarding Sash Windows Cambridge How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

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

Traditionally, box sash windows utilised chains, cotton cords or lead weights to operate. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to avoid this issue.

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 dimensions. This allows the restoration to be in line with modern energy requirements while complying with conservation areas regulations. It also provides an option that is superior to uPVC options.

Sliding sash windows were originally only found in large buildings or public buildings, however this changed when production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to create larger frames using more glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden design in British homes. As they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.

The early windows were made of plain glass, but in the 17th century, sash windows began to be more decorative. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. These were very expensive at the time but as glass production improved and less expensive, they became a part of numerous period houses.

By the 19th century it was possible to create large, strong glass that did not need support bars. This allowed the frame's size to increase more, which in turn meant more of a view out of the window. This was an important innovation.

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

Oak was used in older and more luxurious buildings. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead which separates the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. It is also crucial that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good condition as these assist in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger glass sheets became available, sash window began to replace hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass placed within timber frames with rebates and then pinned with glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to make them watertight. This kind of glass gradually replaced led lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to a greater demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights and stoppers for sashes shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges as well as a variety of fasteners used to fix the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns that identified the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. But, if you don't maintain them, they can become draughty and let in cold air. Paint and putty may also cause draughts. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber products.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the perception that older windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs can be costly and cause significant disruption to your home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a huge "one-stop shop" installation company. They can replace all windows in a home in one day, saving time and eliminating the need for various tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving double glazing to get higher energy ratings than the traditional sash window. Double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions or section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their style. Many types of ironmongery can be fitted, including sash chains, mortice bolts, and sash locks. They can be positioned in a manner that the window can be opened to allow ventilation and 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 that should be replaced with more robust models (such ones with double screws) or spring levers to decrease the chance of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames are usually made from oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept and where feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced by matching wood. PVC-U companies usually offer a one stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on a complete home in a single day without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a large amount of light to flood into the buildings. In the 18th century, they were adapted so that even more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a lighter look and windows with more elegance.

The introduction of sash windows also required an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of leaded and wood. There were also a variety of kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. These ironmongery pieces should be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design.

To keep them in good condition, timber windows need to be maintained. Inattention to maintenance could lead to:

Sashes that do not slide smoothly.

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

break down of putty allowing water penetration, which could cause decay in the frame and cill.

Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s and I930s because they were strong and slim, cost-effective and complemented the trend for healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash window are as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The window replacement industry did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. The truth is that a lot of older windows made of timber are in good condition and with minor repairs could easily be serviceable for many years to be.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your sash window, it can cause the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of the sashes can also result in structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to become misaligned and not closing properly. repairmywindowsanddoors is also possible for the sash to be snagged or fixed in the open position and let water and draughts into the property.

Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided by regular repairs, thorough painting and removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. The sections that are rotting should be carefully cut out and the affected part should be snared together or glued together with replacements of the exact nature as the rest of the timber. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric used in the first place and is one of most non-invasive methods to treat wood-to-timber rot.

A resin-based wood condenser is an alternative to traditional sanding or staining. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is particularly useful in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to prevent breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any old ironmongery such as the sash latches and stays. It is difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also advised that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.