How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

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

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

1. Aesthetics

In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are constructed according to the modular imperial size Timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This lets the restoration meet the current energy standards while still complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also offers windows that have a superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were originally only used in large buildings or public buildings, but the production process was less expensive and craftsmen were able to create larger frames using more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden style in British homes. Because they were simple to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without the need for curtains.

The first windows were made of clear glass, but by the 17th Century sash windows started to become more attractive. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive initially, but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were commonplace in many period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, sturdy glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to increase more, which in turn gave a better view from the window. This was a significant advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that was made towards the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and allowed for better ventilation to buildings.

The most common type of sash is made from slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was also used in more expensive buildings as well as in some earlier examples. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead which divides the sashes. This will help prevent rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are essential for the proper operation of the window supplier cambridge.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets became available. Plate glass repair cambridge was placed in frames made of timber, which were which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was applied to the frame's two sides for watertightness. This type of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes resulted in a need for a much wider range of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners to hold the sashes in the right place. They were often decorated with designs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

Sash windows are energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. If they are not maintained, they can become draughty. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be fixed by using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the belief that older windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a bit of attention. These repairs can be expensive and cause a lot of disruption in the home. To prevent this, many homeowners opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one the large "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. They are also available with 'energy-saving' double glazing repairs near me-glazing, which can achieve greater energy efficiency than those offered by traditional windows with sash. However these double glazing cambridge-glazed units are unable to reproduce the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their style. Ironmongery, such as mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be used. These can be installed in a manner that the Window installation Cambridge is able to be opened for ventilation and cleaning. They are usually unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. They should be replaced with more robust versions, such as those that incorporate double screws or sprung levers in order to reduce the risk of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames are typically constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. When glazing bars have survived they should be kept and if it is it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with matching wood. Many PVC-U firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can remove and replace windows on a complete house in just one day, without involving any other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a large amount of light to flood into structures. By the end of the 18th century, they were modified to let even more light into rooms and larger glazing panes began to be made. The result was a more light appearance and windows with more elegance.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of leaded and wood. There were also various kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design.

To keep them in good condition, timber windows require regular maintenance. Lack of regular attention may result in:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

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

Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or the cill.

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity because they were strong, slim and cheap and also matched the fashion for healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as thermally efficient as double-glazed PVC-u windows and are more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their old windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. Many old timber windows can be fixed and used for a long time with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly could result in the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of sashes may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to move out of alignment and not closing properly. The sash can also be stuck in an open position, allowing water and draughts into the property.

The damage to timber windows is often caused by water entry. This can be avoided by thorough painting, periodic repairs and the elimination of the source of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy look of the existing paint which can be removed to reveal soft, rotting timber. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut out and the affected area carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same kind of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric used in the first place and is one of most non-invasive methods to treat the rot that occurs between timber and timber.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is another alternative to traditional sanding and staining. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to prevent breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, such as sash latches and stays. They can be extremely difficult to replace without harming the the original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings, such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided if at all possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration to frames and sashes made from timber.