How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and are difficult to open and close. This is usually due to moisture that can cause the wood to swell.

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

1. Aesthetics

In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are made to modular imperial sizes, timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows in order to meet the current energy requirements and to comply with conservation area regulations. It also provides a window with a far superior appearance than upvc locksmith cambridge alternatives.

Sliding sash window frames were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However the production became less expensive and craftsmen could create larger frames using greater glass. In the 18th century, Sash windows were the most popular wooden style in a majority of British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the need for curtains.

Early windows were simple glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows began to become more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they became a feature of many period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, strong glasses that didn't need support bars. This allowed the frame to be made larger, which in turn gave a better view. This was a significant advancement.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double glazing repairs-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s.

The most popular kind of sash is made from slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was utilized in more expensive buildings as well as in some earlier examples. A split bead divides the two sashes. It is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers also are vital to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets became available. They were made of plate glass, set within rebated timber frames and then pinned with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes led to an need for a greater variety of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges, knobs and shutters and a variety of fasteners that secured the sashes in place. These were usually decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engravings to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. However, if they are not maintained, they can become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. You can fix this problem 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 maintained with a bit of care. Repairs can be costly and cause a lot of disruption in the home. To avoid this homeowners often choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the many "one stop shop" installation companies. They can replace and remove all windows in a house in a single day, avoiding the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much faster. They are also available with energy-saving double glazing seal repairs (your input here)-glazing to achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than are possible with traditional windows made of sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to duplicate the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their style. Ironmongery, such as mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be installed. They can be positioned in such a way that the window can be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These are typically not noticeable, since they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. They are best replaced with more robust models like those with double screws or sprung levers, to minimize the chance of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames are traditionally constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept and where 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 take down and replace windows on an entire house in just one day, without involving other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a significant amount of light to flood into buildings. At 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 lighter appearance and windows with more elegance.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, later Victorian ones were made from brass or a combination of wood and lead, and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be kept and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

To keep them in good condition, timber windows need to be maintained. Lack of attention to them regularly can result in:

Sashes that no longer slide easily.

Holes in the frame that allow water to enter and cause damage and decay.

break down of the putty and allow water penetration that could lead to decay of the frame and cill.

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their durability, slim and cheap and were in line with the trend for healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient in thermal efficiency as double glazing cambridge-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and can be more attractive than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows.

The industry of replacement windows has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their traditional windows are dirty, noisy and beyond 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 can result in broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of sashes could also cause structural movement in the frame, causing the sash to not close properly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or fixed in the open position and let water and draughts in the structure.

Damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture infiltration. This can be prevented with careful painting, regular repairs and the elimination of the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten timber sections should be cut out and the affected area should be carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same type of timber as those remaining. This method of repair increases the amount original fabric and is one of least invasive ways to treat the rot that occurs between timber and timber.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to the traditional method of staining and sanding. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly beneficial for the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which can help prevent the breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any old ironmongery, such as sash latches and stays. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that modern aluminium fittings, such as sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.