This Is The Advanced Guide To Sash Windows Cambridge 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 appear. However, sash windows may become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture that can cause the timber to swell.

Box sash windows were historically operated with chains, cotton cords and weights made of lead. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to solve this problem.


1. Aesthetics

Unlike PVC-u windows that are constructed to modular imperial sizes the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows to comply with current energy standards and to comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also gives a window with a far more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used for large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became more affordable and artisans could make larger frames using greater 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 need for curtains.

The first windows were made of clear glass, but in the 17th century, sash windows began to be more decorative. They were initially made of colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. These were very expensive at the time but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they became a part of numerous period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to produce large, strong glasses that didn't need support bars. This allowed the frame to be enlarged, which in turn gave the viewer a better view. This was an important advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another significant improvement that came about towards the end of the I920s and the beginning of the I930s. repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously, and also improved the ventilation of a building.

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

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets became available. Plate glass was placed in rebated timber frames, which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was applied to the frame's sides to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

Sashes were introduced, which led to increased demand for ironmongery. The most common fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights and stoppers for sashes, shutter hinges and handles and various fasteners used to fix the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and designs that were engraved to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. Without this maintenance they can get draughty. Paint and putty may cause draughts too. This can be remedied by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The replacement window industry relies on the assumption that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, whereas they are able to be maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows can be expensive and involve considerable disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows using 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 multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than traditional windows made of sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to duplicate the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising on their aesthetics. Ironmongery, such as mortice bolts, sash chain, and sash lock can be used. These can be installed in a way so that the window is able to be opened for ventilation and cleaning. They are usually discrete since they are made to complement sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catches. They are best replaced with more robust models like those that incorporate double screws, or sprung levers, to minimize the chance of being hit with hammers.

Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow-growing deal or, in more elegant homes, from oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept, and, if possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by matching wood. Many PVC-U firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can remove and replace windows on a complete house in just one 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 into the buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were altered to allow more light into rooms and larger glass panes began to be manufactured. The result was a lighter look and windows with more elegance.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and leaded. There were also various kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be kept and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.

To ensure they remain in good shape, timber windows require regular maintenance. A lack of regular attention can lead to:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

holes in the frame that allow water causing damage and decay.

break down of the putty and allow water penetration that could cause decay in the frame and cill.

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their strength slim and inexpensive, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash window are just as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The replacement window industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their old windows are old, dirty, and beyond economic repair. Many old timber windows can be repaired and used for a long time with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can result in sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to become misaligned and not closing properly. The sash can also be stuck in its open position, allowing the water and drafts to enter the property.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by moisture penetration. This can be prevented with thorough painting, periodic repairs, and removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. Any rotten timber sections should be cut off 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 increases the amount of fabric left, and is among the least invasive methods of treating timber-to-timber decay.

A resin-based wood condenser is an alternative to the traditional staining or sanding. The product 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 crucial to restore and not replace any old ironmongery, such as sash latches and stays. They can be extremely difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is also advised that fittings made of aluminum, such as sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.