3 Reasons Your Sash Windows Cambridge Is Broken (And How To Fix It) How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of how they appear. Sash windows can become stuck and become difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture which can cause the wood to expand.

Box sash windows were historically operated by chains, cotton cords and lead weights. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are made to modular imperial sizes, timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration to meet the current energy standards while complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also provides windows that have a superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, though this changed when production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to produce larger frames with more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the use of curtains.

The early windows were made of plain glass However, by the 17th Century, sash windows began to become more ornamental. They were initially made of colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were costly at first, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became a common feature in many period houses.

In the 19th century, it became possible to produce large, sturdy glasses that didn't need supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to be increased even more, which in turn allowed for a wider view from the window. This was a significant advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash is another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s.

The most popular type of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was also used in more prestigious buildings and in earlier examples. A split bead divides the two sashes and it is essential that it is maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are also vital for the proper operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets were made available. Glass plates were set in frames made of timber, which were which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was sprayed on the frame's two sides to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes created the need for a larger variety of ironmongery with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners to hold the sashes in place. window lock repairs repairmywindowsanddoors were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engravings to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. If they are not maintained they can get noisy. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of paint and putty. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber products.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the notion that older windows are beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a little attention. Repairs can be expensive and cause many disruptions in the home. To avoid this homeowners, many choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the largest 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house 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 attain more energy efficient ratings than a traditional sash window. These double-glazed windows aren't able to replicate the proportions and sections 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 to ensure that the window is still open for ventilation or for cleaning. They are generally unobtrusive, as they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches and should be replaced with more robust versions (such ones with double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the possibility of them being hammered out.


Sash-window frames are typically made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are still in good condition, they should be retained. Where possible, the timber cills should be replaced with wood that is in line with. PVC-u companies often offer a one stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on an entire home in a single day without the need to engage other tradespeople or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a significant amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they had been adapted so that even more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also created. The result was a more light appearance and windows that were more elegant.

Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, whereas later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their beautiful design.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good shape. Inattention to maintenance could lead to:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

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

break down of the putty and allow water to penetrate, 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, and also because they were cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient in thermal efficiency as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The window replacement industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. However, many old timber windows are in good shape and with minor repairs can easily be maintained for years to be.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can lead to the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars, and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movements within the frame, causing the sash to not close correctly. The sash may also become stuck in the open position, allowing the water and drafts to enter the building.

Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to timber windows. This can be avoided by regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy appearance of the existing paint which can be removed to reveal soft, rotting wood. Any rotten timber sections should be cut out and the affected area carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same type of wood as those remaining. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric left, and is one of the least invasive ways of treating decay of timber to timber.

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

It is essential that any historic ironmongery such as sash stays and latches are retained and restored rather than replaced. It can be difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided whenever possible as they can cause corrosion and deterioration to timber frames and sashes.