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. Sash windows can get stuck and are difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture, which can cause the timber to swell.

Traditionally, box sash windows used chains, cotton cords or weights made of lead to operate. Modern plastic window repair springs for sash windows are concealed to avoid this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes and are modular, can be reconstructed to their original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows to comply with current energy standards and comply with conservation area regulations. It also provides an option that is superior to the uPVC options.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, but this changed when production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to create larger frames using more glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

The early windows were made of clear glass However, in the 17th century the sash windows began to become more attractive. They were initially made of colored glazing bars or mullions. These were very expensive at the time but as glass production improved and cost-effective, they were a common feature in many period houses.

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 made larger and, in turn, gave a better view. This was a significant improvement.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously and also improved the ventilation of the building.

The most commonly used kind of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more luxurious buildings and in earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes. It is vital that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and draughts. It is also crucial that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good condition as these aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets became available. They were coated with plate glass that was set in timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to make them watertight. This form of glass gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

The introduction of sashes created a need for a much larger variety of ironmongery with the basic fittings being brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash window repair cambridge stops shutter hinges, knobs and shutters as well as a range of fasteners to hold the sashes in the right place. These were often decorated in patterns, inscriptions and engravings to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. If they are not maintained they can get draughty. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of paint and putty. This can be corrected making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.

The market for replacement windows rests on the belief that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, but they are able to be maintained with a little attention. These repairs to upvc doors can be expensive and cause lots of disruption to the home. To avoid this homeowners often opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows made by one of the many "one-stop shop" installation companies. They can take down and replace all the windows in a home in a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much faster. They are also available with energy-saving double-glazing, which can achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than those offered by traditional sash windows. However double-glazed windows cannot duplicate the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their aesthetics. Ironmongery like mortice bolts, sash chain and sash locks can be installed. These can be installed to ensure that the window is still able to be opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. These products are usually unobtrusive, as they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used with traditional sash window doctor cambridge catches. They should be replaced by more robust versions like ones that have double screws or sprung levers in order to reduce the chance of being hammered.

Sash-Window hinges leeds frames were typically made from slow-growing deal or, in more luxurious homes they were made from oak. If the glazing bars are still intact, they should be retained. If it is it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced by wood that is in line with. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on a complete home in a single day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a large amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. At the end of the 18th century they were altered to allow more light into rooms, and larger glazing panes began to be manufactured. The result was a more streamlined appearance, and windows with a higher level of elegance than they had before.

Sash windows were introduced, which required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of leaded and wood. There were also a variety of types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their exquisite design.

To keep them in good shape, timber windows must be maintained. Lack of regular attention may cause:

sashes that no longer slide easily.

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

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

Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s and I930s due to their strength and slim, cheap and matched the trend of healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as thermally efficient as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows.

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

5. Maintenance

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

Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be prevented by regular maintenance as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable due to the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped away to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut off and the affected part carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made of the same type of wood as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric retained and is one of the least invasive methods of treating decay of timber to timber.

A resin-based wood condenser is a viable alternative to traditional process of sanding or staining. It is brushed on the surface of the timber to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which can help prevent breakage.

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