14 Misconceptions Commonly Held About 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 usually due to moisture that can cause the wood 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

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed according to the modular imperial size, timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also comes with an option that is superior to the uPVC options.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However the production became cheaper and artisans could create larger frames using more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden design in British homes. Because they were simple to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.

The early windows were made of glass that was plain, but by the 17th Century, sash windows began to become more attractive. They were initially made of colored glazing bars or mullions. These were very expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and cost-effective, they were a common feature in numerous period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, sturdy glass that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to be enlarged further, which allowed for a wider view from the window. This was an important advancement.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and also improved the ventilation of buildings.

Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is essential to keep the parting bead which divides the sashes. This will prevent draughts and rattles. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are vital to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as clearer and larger sheets were made available. Glass plates were set in rebated timber frames, which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was applied to both sides of the frame for watertightness. This type of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes led to an need for a larger variety of ironmongery including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges, knobs and shutters as well as a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes into place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and designs that were engraved to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. But, if you don't maintain them, they may become drafty and let in cold air. double glazing seal repairs repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk and putty may cause draughts. This can be fixed 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 repair, while they are able to be maintained with a bit of care. Repairs can be expensive and cause a lot of disruption in the home. Many homeowners choose to replace their windows using PVC-u from a huge "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can replace all windows in a home in a single day, saving time and avoiding the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving' double glazing to achieve higher energy ratings than traditional sash window. However, these double-glazed units cannot replicate the section and proportions of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their style. Ironmongery like sash chain, mortice bolts and sash lock could be installed. They can be fitted in a manner that the window can still be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These are typically unobtrusive, as they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers, which must be replaced by more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the chance of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames are traditionally constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. If it is feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced by timber that is compatible with. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on a complete home in 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 to flood into structures. At the end of the 18th century, they had been modified so that more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a much more streamlined appearance, and windows that had a higher degree of elegance than before.

Sash windows were introduced and required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of leaded and wood. There were also a variety of kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces must be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. A lack of attention to them regularly could result in:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

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

break down of putty allowing water penetration that could cause 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 shown that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as efficient thermally as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and are more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The industry of replacement windows has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were rotten, drafty and beyond economical repair. Many old windows made of timber can be fixed and used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your sash window, it could cause the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause the paint and putty to become damaged. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame, which can cause the sash to not close correctly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or fixed in an open position and let water and draughts into the property.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by water infiltration. This can be prevented by thorough painting, regular repairs, and 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 part carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same type of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric left, and is one of the least invasive ways of treating decay of timber to timber.

A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to the traditional staining or sanding. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly useful to treat sash and pulley cords, which can stop breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any historic ironmongery, such as the sash latches and stays. They can be extremely difficult to replace without harming the the original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium fittings, such as sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.