The 12 Best Sash Windows Cambridge Accounts To Follow On Twitter How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of how they look. Sash windows can become stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is often due moisture, which can cause the timber to expand.

Box sash windows were previously operated using chains, cotton cords and lead weights. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are made according to the modular imperial size Timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also provides an option that is superior to the uPVC options.

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

Early windows were simple glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows started to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at first, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became a common feature in many homes of the period.

In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, sturdy glasses that didn't need supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to increase further, which meant more of a view from the window. This was an important innovation.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that occurred towards the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened at the same time and gave improved ventilation to buildings.

The most common kind of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was used in the more prestigious buildings and in some earlier examples. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead that divides the sashes. This will help prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are vital to the operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger sheets of glass became available, sash window started replacing hinged casements. Plate glass was set into frames of timber that were rebated, then pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to the frame's two sides to ensure watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes led to the need for a wider range of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, 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 place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engravings that identified the maker.

Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. However, without this maintenance they can become draughty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can also cause draughts. This can be corrected using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.


The industry of replacement windows is based on the belief that old windows are damaged and beyond repair, whereas they are able to be maintained with just a little care. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause considerable disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a huge "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can replace all windows in a home in one day, thereby saving time and eliminating the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be supplied with 'energy saving' double-glazing, which can achieve greater energy efficiency than traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions or section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising on their aesthetics. Many types of ironmongery are available, including sash chains, mortice bolts and sash locks. They can be positioned in such a way that the window can still be opened for ventilation and cleaning. They are generally minimal in appearance, as they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches and must be replaced by more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the chance of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow grown deal or, in more elegant homes they were made from oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept and if it is it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop installation service. They can take down and replace windows throughout a home in a single day, without involving other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a large amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were altered to allow even more light into rooms, and larger glass panes began to be manufactured. The result was a much lighter appearance and windows that had a higher level of elegance than they had before.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated an entirely new range of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, while later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a mixture of lead and wood, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be kept and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

To keep them in good shape, timber windows require regular maintenance. Inattention to maintenance routinely could cause:

sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

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

break down of upvc window and door repairs and allow water to penetrate, which could lead to decay of the frame and cill.

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

The industry of replacement windows has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were decayed drafty, noisy and beyond repair. The reality is that many old timber windows are in good condition and with minor repairs can easily be repaired for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your window's sash, it could lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame, causing the sash to not close properly. The sash could also get stuck in an open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the building.

Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided with regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten timber sections must be removed and the affected area carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same kind of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximises the amount of fabric left, and is among the least invasive ways of treating decay caused by timber.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is a viable alternative to traditional staining or sanding. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is especially useful to treat pulley cords and sash which can help prevent breakage.

It is crucial to restore and not replace any old ironmongery, like stay latches and sash latches. These items are difficult to replace without damaging the quality of the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided whenever possible as they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.