20 Things You Must Be Educated 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, which can cause the wood to expand.

Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilized chains, cotton cords or weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash window springs are hidden to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes that are modular, are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and comply with conservation area regulations. It also provides a window with a far more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only found in large buildings or public buildings, however this changed as production became cheaper and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. In the late 18th century sash windows were the dominant design of wood in the majority of British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the use of curtains.

Early windows were simple glass, but in the 17th century sash windows were becoming more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive initially, but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became a common feature in many period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, sturdy glass that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame size to increase further and this in turn meant more of a view out of the window. This was a very important advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another significant improvement that came about in the I920s and at the beginning of the 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 in older and more luxurious buildings. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes and it is important that this is well maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers are vital to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger sheets of glass were made available, sash windows began replacing hinged casements. Glass plates were set in rebated timber frames, secured with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to the frame's two sides to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

The introduction of sashes created an need for a greater variety of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys, 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 engravings to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. However, without this maintenance they can become draughty and let in cold air. Paint and putty may cause draughts. This can be remedied by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the belief that old windows are damaged beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a little attention. However, these repairs can be costly and cause considerable disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a huge "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and eliminating the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than traditional sash window. However double-glazed windows cannot replicate the section and proportions of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising on their aesthetics. A variety of ironmongery types are available including sash chains mortice bolts and sash locks. These can be installed in such a way that the window can be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. They are usually not noticeable since they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catches. They should be replaced by more robust versions like those that incorporate double screws, or sprung levers to decrease the chance of being hammered.

Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow grown deal or, in the more prestigious houses made of oak. When glazing bars have survived they should be kept, and, if feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. PVC-U companies usually offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on an entire house in a day without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a large amount of light to enter buildings. By the end of the 18th century, they were adapted to allow even more light into rooms and larger glazing panes began to be manufactured. The result was a lighter appearance, and windows with a greater quality of design than before.

Sash windows were introduced and required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were made out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of wood and lead. There were also a variety of kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. The ironmongery components should be kept and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.

To ensure they remain in good condition, timber windows must be maintained. A lack of attention to them regularly could result in:

Sashes that don't slide smoothly.

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

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

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their durability slim and affordable and also matched the fashion for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash windows are just as effective as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The replacement window industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed drafty, noisy and beyond repair. The truth is that a lot of older timber windows are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be serviceable for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your window's sash, it could cause the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause the paint and putty to deteriorate.  www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk  of sashes could also result in structural movements within the frame, which can cause the sash to not close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or slammed into an open position and this can let water and draughts enter the property.

Damage to timber windows is often caused by water entry. This can be prevented by thorough painting, regular repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy look of the paint, which can be removed to reveal soft, rotting timber. The rotten timber sections should be carefully cut out and the affected part should be snared together or glued together using replacements of the same nature as the rest of the timber. This repair method increases the amount original fabric and is among the most minimally invasive methods of treating wood-to-timber rot.

A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to the traditional staining or sanding. This is brushed onto the surface of the timber to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful for the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which can help prevent breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, such as stay latches and sash latches. These items are difficult to replace without harming the quality of the original design. It is also 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 to frames and sashes made from timber.