9 Signs You're The Sash Windows Cambridge Expert

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

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

Traditionally, window boxes used chains, cotton cords or lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to address this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes, which are modular, are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration to meet modern day energy requirements while still complying with conservation area regulations. It also provides a window that is far superior to uPVC alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used for large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could create larger frames using larger glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden style in British homes. Since they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without the need for curtains.

The early windows were made of glass that was plain however, in the 17th century sash windows started to become more attractive. They started with coloured glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were costly at the beginning but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were a common feature in many period houses.

By the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, sturdy glass that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame to be made larger, which in turn gave the viewer a better view. This was a very important innovation.

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

Oak was used for older examples and more prestigious buildings. A split bead divides the two sashes. It is essential that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and drafts. It is also crucial that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good working order as they help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets were made available. Plate glass was set into frames of timber that were rebated, then pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to the frame's sides for watertightness. This kind of glass gradually replaced leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes led to a need for a much wider range of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners to hold the sashes in the right place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engravings that identified the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. However, if  sash windows cambridge  are not maintained, they can become draughty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be remedied by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the perception that old windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a little attention. Repairs can be expensive and cause many disruptions in the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows using PVC-u from a large "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can replace and remove all windows in a home in just one day, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the whole process much faster. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than traditional windows with sash. However double-glazed windows cannot duplicate the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their appearance. There are many types of ironmongery that can be installed with sash chains, mortice bolts, and locks for sash. They can be positioned in a way so that the window can be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually unobtrusive, as they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches, which must be replaced by more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the risk of them being hammered out.

Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more elegant homes made of oak. If the glazing bars are intact and are not damaged, they should be left. If it is possible, the timber cills should be replaced by timber that is compatible with. PVC-U companies usually provide a one-stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on an entire home in a single day without the need to involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a significant amount of light to flood into buildings. In the 18th century, they were adapted so that even more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a more light appearance and windows that were more elegant.

The introduction of sash windows also required a 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. Ironmongery elements must be maintained and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good order. Inattention to maintenance routinely could cause:

Sashes that do not move easily.

holes in the frame allow water causing damage and decay.

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

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity because they were strong slim and inexpensive and were in line with the trend 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 industry of replacement windows was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. However, many older windows made of timber are in good shape and, with minor repairs, could easily be maintained for years to come.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can result in broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of the sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to become misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or slammed into an open position and this can let water and draughts in the structure.

Damage to windows made of timber is usually caused by moisture penetration. This can be prevented by thorough painting, periodic repairs and elimination of the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. Any timber that is rotting should be cut off and the affected area should be carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same kind of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric retained and is among the least invasive ways of treating timber-to-timber decay.

A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to the traditional staining or sanding. It is brushed on the surface of the wood to stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful for treating sash and pulley cords, which can stop breakage.

It is crucial that any historic ironmongery such as sash stays and latches are kept and restored instead of replacing them. It can be difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings like sash lifts and chain stays is avoided whenever possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.