Learn To Communicate Sash Windows Cambridge To Your Boss 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 may get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture that can cause the timber to swell.

Box sash windows were traditionally operated by chains or cotton cords as well as lead weights. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to avoid this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed according to the modular imperial size the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original size. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and comply with conservation area regulations. It also provides windows that have a superior appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used for large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with greater glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

The first windows were made of glass that was plain however, by the 17th Century the sash windows began to be more decorative. They started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. They were costly 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 became possible to make large, strong glasses that didn't need supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to be enlarged further, which meant more of a view out of the window. 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. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously, and also improved the ventilation of the building.

The most common type of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was used in the more expensive buildings as well as in earlier examples. A split bead divides the two sashes. It is vital that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are essential to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets became available. They were made of plate glass, placed within timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This type of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to increased demand for ironmongery. The most common 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. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and engravings that identified the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. But, if you don't maintain them, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Putty and paint can also cause draughts. This can be fixed by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the belief that older windows are old and beyond repair, while they can be easily maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows can be expensive and involve significant disruption to your home. Many homeowners choose 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 various tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double glazing to get higher energy ratings than the traditional windows with sash. However double-glazed windows cannot replicate the section and proportions of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery like mortice bolts, sash chain, and sash lock can be installed. These can be installed in such a way that the window can be open for ventilation and cleaning. These are typically unobtrusive, as they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used alongside traditional sash-window catches, which must be replaced by more robust versions (such ones with double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the risk of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames are usually made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are still intact, they should be retained. If it is feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced with wood that matches. PVC-u companies often offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows across a house in a day without the need to involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light into structures. In the 18th century, they were modified to allow more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also created. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with more elegance.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of wood and leaded. There were also different kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be retained and cleaned down to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.


To ensure they remain in good condition, wooden windows must be maintained. Lack of attention to them regularly can lead to:

sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

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

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

window seal repairs near me gained popularity in the I920s and I930s because they were sturdy and slim, and also because they were cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows are as efficient in thermal efficiency as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and can be more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The window replacement industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed, drafty and beyond economical repair. The reality is that many older windows made of wood are in good condition and with minor repairs can easily be repaired for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your sash window, it can result in the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to be misaligned and not closing properly. The sash could also get stuck in its open position, allowing the water and drafts to enter the building.

Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented by regular repairs by thorough painting and eliminating the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. The rotten timber sections should be carefully cut out and the affected area should be snared together or glued together with replacements of the exact kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric retained and is one of the least invasive methods for treating decay of timber to timber.

A resin-based wood condenser is an alternative to the traditional process of sanding or staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the timber to stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which help stop breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, like stay latches and sash latches. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts and chainstays, are avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.