15 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Ignore Sash Windows Cambridge How to Restore upvc repairs near me repairmywindowsanddoors in Cambridge

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

Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilized chains, cotton cords or weights made of lead to operate. 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 Timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This lets the restoration be in line with modern energy requirements while still complying with conservation area regulations. It also offers a window that is far superior to uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, however this changed when production became cheaper and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the need for curtains.

Early windows were plain glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows started to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at first, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became commonplace in many historic homes.

In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, strong glasses that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame size to be enlarged further and this in turn allowed for a wider view out of the window. This was a significant innovation.

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

Oak was used for older examples and more prestigious buildings. A split bead divides the two sashes, and it is vital that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and drafts. It is also crucial that sash pulleys and idler wheels are in good shape as they aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger glass sheets were made available, sash windows started replacing hinged casements. They were coated with plate glass that was set within rebated timber frames and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which resulted in an increase in demand for ironmongery. The most common fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers, shutter hinges and handles and various fasteners used to secure the sashes. These were often decorated in designs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be extremely energy-efficient with regular maintenance. But, if you don't maintain them, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. This can be fixed by using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The replacement window industry relies on the assumption that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, but they can be maintained with a bit of care. However, these repairs are costly and can cause substantial disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows using PVC-u from a huge "one-stop shop" installation company. They can replace all windows in a house in a single day, saving time and eliminating the need for various tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double glazing to get higher energy ratings than traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of replicating the proportions and sections of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their appearance. A variety of ironmongery types are available, including sash chains, mortice bolts, and sash locks. These can be installed in a way that the window is still open to allow ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically discrete since they are made to complement sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers that are required to be replaced with more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the possibility of them being hammered out.

Sash-window frames are traditionally constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars remain intact and are not damaged, they should be left. If it is possible, the timber cills should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. Many PVC-u firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can take down and replace windows on a complete home in a single day, without involving any other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light to flood into buildings. At the end of the 18th century they were adapted to allow more light into rooms and larger glass panes began to be made. The result was a lighter appearance, and windows with a higher quality of design than before.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and leaded. There were also a variety of types of knobs and shutter hinges. The ironmongery components should be retained and cleaned down so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good shape. Inattention to maintenance can result in:

Sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

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

The putty can be soaked by water and cause decay to the frame or cause cill.


In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their strength, slim and cheap, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient thermally as double-glazed PVC-u windows and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows.

The replacement window industry has done a lot to persuade house owners that their old windows are rotten, draughty and beyond repair. The reality is that many older timber windows are in good shape and, with minor repairs, could easily be repaired for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly can result in the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of the sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to move out of alignment and unable to close correctly. The sash could also get stuck in an open position, allowing the water and drafts to enter the property.

Damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture entry. This can be avoided with regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the source of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be removed to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any rotten timber sections must be removed and the affected area carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made of the same kind of timber as the ones that remain. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric that was originally used and is one of most non-invasive methods to treat the rot that occurs between timber and timber.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to traditional sanding and staining. This is brushed onto the surface of the timber to help stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is especially useful for treating pulley cords and sash, which can help prevent breakage.

It is crucial that any historic ironmongery such as sash stay and latches be kept and restored rather than replacing them. They can be extremely difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is also advised that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.