14 Questions You Shouldn't Be Anxious To Ask 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 can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture, which can cause the wood to expand.

Traditionally, box sash windows utilized chains, cotton cords or weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to address this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes and are modular, can be restored to their original size. upvc windows cambridge allows the restoration of timber sash windows in order to meet the current energy requirements and to comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also comes with windows that are superior to the uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were originally only used in large buildings or public buildings, though this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. By the late 18th century sash windows were the dominant design of wood in the majority of British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light into rooms without the use of curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass, but by the 17th Century sash windows started to become more attractive. They started with coloured glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were expensive initially, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were a common feature in many homes of the period.

In the 19th century, it became possible to make large, strong glasses that didn't need support bars. This allowed the frame size to be increased even more, which in turn gave a better view from the window. This was a significant innovation.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another significant improvement that came about in the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened at the same time and allowed for better ventilation to a building.

The most popular kind of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was also used in more expensive buildings as well as in some earlier examples. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes, and it is important that this is well maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers are also crucial to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets were made available. They were made of plate glass, placed within timber frames with rebates and then pinned with glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes created the need for a greater variety of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, knobs and shutters as well as a range of fasteners that secured the sashes into place. These were usually decorated with designs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. Without this maintenance they can get draughty. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of putty and paint. This can be remedied by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.

The market for replacement windows rests on the perception that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, while they are able to be maintained with a bit of care. However, these repairs can be costly and cause significant disruption to your home. To avoid this, many homeowners opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one the large "one-stop shop" installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, thereby saving time and eliminating the need for various tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be supplied with energy-saving double-glazing to achieve greater energy efficiency than are possible with traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of replicating the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security


It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their appearance. 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 is able to be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually not noticeable, since 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 that have double screws) or spring levers to decrease the chance of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames are usually made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are still intact and in good condition, they should be kept. If it is it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced by wood that is in line with. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows across a house in a day without the need to engage other tradespeople or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a large amount of light into buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were modified to let even more light into rooms, and bigger glazing panes started to be produced. The result was a lighter appearance and windows that were more elegant.

The introduction of sash windows also required an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of leaded and wood. There were also different kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must 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 condition. A lack of regular attention can result in:

Sashes that don't slide smoothly.

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

break down of the putty and allow water penetration that 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 inexpensive and also matched the fashion 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 window replacement industry has done a lot to persuade house owners that their windows are rotten, draughty and beyond economic repair. Many old windows made of timber are repairable and can be used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly could result in broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to be misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. The sash can also be stuck in its open position, which allows water and draughts to enter the property.

Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided by regular repairs, thorough painting and removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten timber sections should be cut out and the affected area carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same type of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric that was originally used and is one of most non-invasive methods to treat timber-to-timber rot.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to traditional staining and sanding. This is brushed onto the surface of the wood to stabilise and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to prevent breakage.

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