How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can become stuck and are difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture, which can cause the wood to expand.

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

1. Aesthetics

Unlike PVC-u windows that are constructed according to imperial sizes that are modular the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration to be in line with modern energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation area regulations. It also comes with a window repairs near me that is far superior to the upvc window repairs near me options.

Sliding windows with sash were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However this changed as production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames using more glass. In the 18th century, Sash windows were the most popular wooden Sliding doors cambridge (https://www.interlink.ro/) style in a majority of British homes. Since they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.

Early windows were simple glass but by the 17th century, sash windows began to become more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they were a common feature in many of the period homes.

In the 19th century, it was possible to produce large, strong glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be made bigger and, in turn, gave an improved view. This was a significant innovation.

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

The most common type of sash is made from slow grown deal (pine) but oak was utilized in more luxurious buildings and in earlier examples. It is important to maintain the parting bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will stop rattles and draughts. It is also essential that sash pulleys and idler wheels are in good shape as they help to operate the window installation cambridge.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets became available. They were coated with plate glass that was set in timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to make them watertight. This form of glass gradually replaced led lights.

The introduction of sashes created a need for a much larger variety of ironmongery with the basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges, knobs and shutters and a variety of fasteners used to keep the sashes into place. These were usually decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

Sash windows are energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. However, without this maintenance they can become draughty and let in cold air. Paint and putty may also cause draughts. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber solutions.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the perception that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, but they can be easily maintained with just a little care. However, these repairs are costly and can cause considerable disruption to the home. To prevent this homeowners often opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows made by one of the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. These can remove and replace all the windows in an entire house within a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much quicker. They can also be supplied with 'energy-saving' double-glazing, which can achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than are possible with traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed windows aren't able to replicate the proportions or section of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their style. Ironmongery like sash chain, mortice bolts, and sash lock can be put in place. They can be positioned in a way so that the window is able to be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These products are often unobtrusive as they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. These should be replaced by more robust models like those that incorporate double screws or sprung levers to decrease the risk of being hammered.

Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow grown deal or, in the more luxurious homes, from oak. When glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with matching wood. PVC-u companies typically provide a one-stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows on a complete home in a single day without the need to engage other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a large amount of light into buildings. By the end 18th century, they were modified to allow more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also created. The result was a lighter look and windows that were more elegant.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, while later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a mixture of wood and lead, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be maintained and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

To keep them in good condition, wooden windows must be maintained. A lack of attention to them regularly could lead to:

Sashes that don't slide smoothly.

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

break down of putty allowing water to penetrate, which could lead to decay of the frame and cill.

Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s & I930s because they were strong and slim, cost-effective and complemented the trend for healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash window repair cambridge window are just as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The industry of replacement windows has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their old windows are rotten, draughty and beyond economic repair. However, many old windows made of wood are in good condition and with minor repairs can easily be maintained for years to come.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your sash window, it could result in the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to become misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. The sash could also get stuck in the open position, allowing water and draughts into the building.

Damage to timber windows is often caused by water entry. This can be avoided with regular maintenance by thorough painting and eliminating the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. The rotten timber sections should be carefully cut out, and the affected area should be snared together or pieced together using replacements of the same type as the remaining timber. This repair method increases the amount of fabric that was originally used and is among the most non-invasive methods to treat wood-to-timber rot.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is another alternative to the traditional method of sanding and staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is especially useful for the treatment of sash and pulley cords, which can stop breakage.

It is essential that any historic ironmongery such as sash stays and latches be kept and rehabilitated instead of being replaced. It is difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings, such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided if at all feasible as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.