How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

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

Traditionally, box sash windows utilised chains or cotton cords and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to overcome this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes and are modular, can be reconstructed to their original size. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows in order to comply with current energy standards and to comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also provides an option that is superior to the emergency upvc door repairs alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However the production became more affordable and artisans could make larger frames using larger glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden sliding doors cambridge design in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light in rooms without the use of curtains.

The early windows were made of plain glass However, in the 17th century the sash windows began to become more attractive. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at the beginning but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were commonplace in many homes of the period.

In the 19th century, it became possible to create large, strong glasses that didn't require support bars. This allowed for the frame to be enlarged, which in turn gave an improved view. This was a significant innovation.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and at the beginning of I930s. The double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.

The most commonly used type of sash is constructed from slow grown deal (pine) however oak was also used in more expensive buildings as well as in some earlier examples. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes. It is essential that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and draughts. It is also crucial that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good working order as they help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

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

The introduction of sashes resulted in an need for a greater 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 and a variety of fasteners used to keep the sashes to their place. These were usually decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty may cause draughts. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber solutions.

The replacement window industry relies on the assumption that older windows are old and beyond repair, but they can be easily maintained with just a little care. However, these repairs can be expensive and involve considerable disruption to the home. To avoid this, many homeowners opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one the largest 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, thereby saving time and eliminating the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows with sash. However, these double-glazed units cannot duplicate the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their appearance. There are many types of ironmongery that can be fitted, including sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. They can be fitted in a manner that the Penthouse Window Repair can be opened for ventilation and cleaning. They are usually not noticeable since they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash window seal replacement near me catches and are required to be replaced with more robust models (such as those incorporating 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. When glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and, if possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. Many PVC-U firms offer a one-stop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on a complete home in a single day, without involving any other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a significant amount of light into buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they had been adapted so that even more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also made. The result was a more streamlined appearance, and windows with a greater quality of design than before.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of leaded and wood. There were also various types of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be kept and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good order. Lack of regular attention may result in:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

holes in the frame allow water causing damage and decay.

break down of the putty and allow water to penetrate, which could cause decay in the frame and cill.

Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s & I930s because they were sturdy and slim, cost-effective and complemented the trend for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash windows are as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their traditional windows are rotten, draughty and beyond economic repair. Many old windows made of timber can be fixed and used for a long time with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do this can result in sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to become misaligned and not closing properly. The sash can also be stuck in its open position, allowing water and draughts into the building.

Damage to timber windows is often caused by water entry. This can be prevented by regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the source of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy look of the paint, which can be stripped away to reveal rotting, soft timber. The sections that are rotting must be removed with care, and the affected area should be scarfed or glued together using replacements of the same type as the remaining timber. This method of repair increases the amount of original fabric left, and is among the least invasive methods of treating decay caused by timber.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to traditional staining and sanding. This is brushed onto the surface of the wood to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is especially beneficial to treat pulley cords and sash which can stop breakage.

It is important that any old ironmongery like sash stays and latches be kept and rehabilitated instead of being replacing them. They can be extremely difficult to replace without harming the the original design. It is also recommended that fittings made of aluminum like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, be avoided as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.