20 Resources To Make You More Efficient At Sash Windows Cambridge How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows may get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture which can cause the timber to expand.

Box sash windows were traditionally operated with chains or cotton cords as well as lead weights. Modern sash window springs are hidden to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are manufactured to modular imperial sizes the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This lets the restoration meet the current energy standards while complying with conservation area regulations. It also offers a window that is far superior to uPVC alternatives.


Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used in large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became more affordable and artisans could produce larger frames with more glass. In the late 18th century sash windows were the dominant wooden design in most British homes. As they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.

The early windows were made of glass that was plain However, in the 17th century sash windows started to become more ornamental. They started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at the time but as glass production became more efficient and less expensive, they were a common feature in numerous period houses.

By the 19th century it was possible to make large, sturdy glass that did not need support bars. This allowed for the frame to be enlarged, which in turn gave a better view. This was a significant advancement.

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

Oak was used in older examples and for more prestigious buildings. A parting bead separates the two sashes and it is essential that it is well maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good shape as they aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger sheets of glass were made available, sash windows began to replace hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass placed within timber frames with rebates and then pinned with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This type of glass gradually replaced leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to increased demand for ironmongery. The most common fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers, shutter hinges and handles and a variety of fasteners used to fix the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engravings that identified the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. If they are not maintained they could become noisy. Paint and putty may cause draughts too. repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk is possible to fix this issue with wood-to-timber products.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the belief that older windows are beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. These repairs can be costly and cause a lot of disruption in the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows using PVC-u from a "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and eliminating the need for various tradesmen to coordinate. They are also available with energy-saving double-glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than traditional windows with sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to replicate the section and proportions of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery like mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be installed. These can be installed in a way so that the window is able to be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually unobtrusive, as they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. They should be replaced with more robust versions like ones that have double screws or sprung levers in order to reduce the chance of being hit with hammers.

Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more luxurious homes made of oak. When glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and where feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced by identical wood. PVC-U companies usually provide 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 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 be absorbed into buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were adapted so that even more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a much lighter appearance, and windows with a greater level of elegance than they had before.

Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and leaded. There were also different kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be retained and cleaned down to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good order. Lack of attention to them regularly can result in:

Sashes that do not move effortlessly.

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

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

Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s & I930s due to their strength and slim, cheap and matched the trend of healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are just as thermally efficient as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and are more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The window replacement industry has done a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows are rotten, draughty and beyond economic repair. Many old timber windows are repairable and can be used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it can result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause paint and putty degrade. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to be misaligned and unable to close correctly. The sash could also get stuck in the open position, which allows the water and drafts to enter the property.

Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented by regular maintenance, thorough painting and removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. The rotten timber sections must be removed with care, and the affected area should be scarfed or pieced together with replacements of the exact type as the remaining timber. This method of repair increases the amount original fabric and is among the most non-invasive methods to treat the rot that occurs between timber and timber.

A resin-based wood condenser is a viable alternative to traditional staining or sanding. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which help prevent the breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery, like sash latches and stays. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also advised that fittings made of aluminum, such as sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.