How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and 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 timber to expand.

Box sash windows were traditionally operated by chains or cotton cords, as well as lead weights. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes, which are modular, are able to be restored to their original size. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows in order to comply with current energy standards and conform to conservation area regulations. It also gives windows with a superior appearance than the upvc door repair alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became cheaper and artisans could produce larger frames with greater glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows were the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. As they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.

Early windows were simple glass, but in the 17th century, sash windows began to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were costly at the beginning but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were commonplace in many historic homes.

In the 19th century, it became possible to produce large, strong glasses that didn't need support bars. This allowed the frame's size to be increased even more, which in turn meant more of a view from the window. 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. The double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s.

Oak was used in older examples and for more prestigious buildings. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes. It is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers are vital to the operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets were made available. They were coated with plate glass that was placed within timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This type of glass gradually replaced led lights.

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

Sash windows are energy-efficient with regular maintenance. Without this maintenance they can get drafty. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be corrected making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.

The replacement window industry relies heavily on the belief that older windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a bit of attention. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause significant disruption to your home. Many homeowners choose to replace their windows using PVC-u from a "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can replace all windows in a home in one day, thereby saving time and eliminating the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. They are also available with 'energy-saving' double-glazing, which can achieve greater energy efficiency than those offered by traditional windows with sash. However double-glazed windows cannot replicate the section and proportions of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their aesthetics. Ironmongery, such as mortice bolts, sash chain, and sash lock can be used. These can be installed in such a way that the window can be open for ventilation and cleaning. These are typically not noticeable, since they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window maintenance catchers, which must be replaced by more robust versions (such ones with double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the chance of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames were constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more luxurious homes made of oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and if it is feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced by identical wood. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can remove and replace windows throughout a home in a single day, without involving other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation repair Cambridgeshire

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light to flood into buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were adapted to allow more light into rooms, and bigger glazing panes started to be produced. The result was a much more streamlined appearance, and windows that had a higher degree of elegance than before.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and lead. There were also different types of knobs and shutter hinges. Ironmongery elements must be maintained and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.

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

Sashes that do not slide smoothly.

holes in the frame allow water that can cause decay and damage.

break down of putty allowing water penetration that can lead to decay in the frame and cill.

Steel aluminium casement windows cambridge windows became popular in the I920s & I930s because they were sturdy and slim, cost-effective and complemented the trend for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows are just as thermally efficient as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and can be more attractive than the modern sleek design of aluminium casement windows cambridge windows.

The industry of replacement windows has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. The reality is that many older windows made of wood are in good shape and with minor repairs could easily be repaired for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

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

The damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture penetration. This can be avoided with regular maintenance by thorough painting and eliminating the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut off and the affected area should be carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same type of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount original fabric and is one of most non-invasive methods to treat wood-to-timber rot.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to traditional staining and sanding. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is especially useful for treating pulley cords and sash which can help prevent breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any old ironmongery such as sash latches and stays. They can be extremely difficult to replace without harming the quality of the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided whenever feasible as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.