Why You Should Concentrate On Improving Sash Windows Cambridge How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and the 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 historically operated by chains, cotton cords and lead weights. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to solve this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes and are modular, can be reconstructed to their original size. This lets the restoration be in line with modern energy requirements while complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also comes with windows that are superior to uPVC options.

Sliding sash window frames were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became more affordable and artisans could create larger frames using larger glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden design 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 plain glass, but in the 17th century, sash windows began to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. window supplier cambridge Repair My Windows And Doors were costly at the beginning but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became a common feature in many historic homes.

In the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, strong glass that did not require support bars. This allowed for the frame to be made larger and, in turn, gave a better view. This was a significant innovation.

Another significant 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 significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s.

Oak was used in older and more luxurious buildings. A split bead divides the two sashes and it is vital that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and drafts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers are essential to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

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

The introduction of sashes resulted in the need for a wider range of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes in place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or designs that were engraved to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be very energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. If they are not maintained they could become drafty. Paint and putty can also cause draughts. You can fix this problem by using wood-to-timber products.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the perception that old windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However, they can easily 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 large 'one-stop shop' installation company. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and avoiding the need for various tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to get higher energy efficiency ratings than traditional windows made of sash. However double-glazed windows cannot reproduce the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. Many types of ironmongery can be fitted, including sash chains, mortice bolts, and locks for sash. These can be installed in a way so that the window can still be open for ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually minimal in appearance, as they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches, which must be replaced by more robust versions (such ones with double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the possibility of them being hammered open.


Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow grown deal or, in the more elegant homes, from oak. If the glazing bars remain intact and are not damaged, they should be left. Where possible, the timber cills should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. PVC-U companies usually offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on a complete house in a day without the need to involve other tradespeople or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a significant amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. By the end of the 18th century, they were adapted to allow more light into rooms and larger glazing panes began to be produced. The result was a more streamlined appearance, and windows with a greater level of elegance than they had before.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their beautiful design.

To keep them in good condition, timber windows require regular maintenance. A lack of attention to them regularly could lead to:

Sashes that do not slide smoothly.

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

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

Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s & I930s because they were sturdy and slim, cheap and matched the trend of healthy living. Research has shown 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 drafty, noisy and beyond repair. However, many old windows made of timber are in good shape and with minor repairs could easily be serviceable for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly can result in broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to move out of alignment and not closing properly. The sash could also get stuck in an open position, allowing the water and drafts to enter the building.

The damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture entry. This can be avoided by regular repairs by thorough painting and eliminating the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. Any timber that is rotting must be removed and the affected part carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made from the same type of wood as the ones that remain. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric used in the first place and is one of most non-invasive methods to treat timber-to-timber rot.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to traditional sanding and staining. It is brushed on the surface of the timber to 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 that any old ironmongery like sash stays and latches be kept and rehabilitated instead of being replaced. It can be difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings like sash lifts and chain stays is avoided if at all possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration to frames and sashes made from timber.