15 Reasons Not To Ignore 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. However, sash windows can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is often due moisture which can cause the timber to swell.

Traditionally, box sash windows utilised chains or cotton cords and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to address this issue.

1. Aesthetics

In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are constructed according to imperial sizes that are modular the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows in order to meet the current energy requirements and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also provides an option that is superior to uPVC options.

Sliding sash windows were originally only used in large structures or public buildings, though this changed as production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to create larger frames using more glass. In the 18th century, Sash windows were the most popular wooden style in a majority of British properties. As they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without the need for curtains.

Early windows were simple glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows began to become more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. These were very expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and cost-effective, they became a part of many of the period homes.

In the 19th century it was possible to create large, sturdy glass that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to increase further, which meant more of a view out of the window. This was an important improvement.


Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and the beginning of I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and also improved the ventilation of buildings.

The most commonly used type of sash is constructed from slow grown deal (pine) but oak was used in the more luxurious buildings and in some earlier examples. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead that divides the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are essential to the operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets became available. Plate glass was set into rebated timber frames, pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to the frame's two sides to ensure watertightness. This form of glazing gradually superseded leaded lights.

window cambridge of sashes created an need for a greater 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 as well as a range of fasteners to hold the sashes into the right place. They were often decorated with patterns, inscriptions and patterns engraved to identify the maker.

Sash windows are energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Putty and paint can also cause draughts. You can fix this problem by using wood-to-timber products.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the perception that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, while they can be maintained with a little attention. Repairs can be costly and cause many disruptions in the home. To prevent this homeowners, many prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace and remove all windows in an entire house in a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen, making the whole process much quicker. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving' double glazing to achieve higher energy ratings than traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their style. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be put in place. They can be fitted in a manner that the window is able to be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These products are often unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. They should be replaced by more robust versions like ones that have double screws, or sprung levers, to minimize the chance of being hit with hammers.

Sash-window frames are usually constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. When glazing bars have survived they should be kept, and where possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. PVC-u companies often provide a one-stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows on an entire home in one day, without the need to engage other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a significant amount of light to enter buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they had been adapted so that even more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also produced. The result was a much more streamlined appearance, and windows with a higher quality of design than before.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and lead. There were also a variety of kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be kept and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

To ensure they remain in good condition, wooden windows require regular maintenance. A lack of attention to them regularly could cause:

Sashes that do not move easily.

holes in the frame allow water causing damage and decay.

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

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity because they were strong slim and inexpensive and were in line with the trend for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash window are just as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The window replacement industry has done a lot to persuade house owners that their old windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. However, many old windows made of wood are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be maintained for years to come.

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 deteriorating excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to become damaged. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movements within the frame, which can cause the sash to not close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or slammed into an open position and this can let water and draughts enter the structure.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by moisture infiltration. This can be prevented with thorough painting, periodic repairs and elimination of the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, decaying wood. The sections of timber that are rotten should be carefully cut out, and the affected area should be scarfed together or pieced together using replacements of the same kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair increases the amount original fabric and is one of least invasive ways to treat wood-to-timber rot.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is an alternative to the traditional method of sanding and staining. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which can help prevent the breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery such as the sash latches and stays. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings like chain stays and sash lifts is avoided if at all possible as they can cause corrosion and damage to frames and sashes made from timber.