How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in door fitter cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can become stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture that can cause the wood to swell.

Traditionally, box sash windows utilized chains or cotton cords and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to overcome this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are manufactured according to the modular imperial size the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and conform to conservation area regulations. It also offers windows that have a superior [Redirect-Java] appearance than the upvc window repairs cambridge alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used for large buildings or public buildings. However the production became cheaper and artisans could create larger frames using greater glass. In the 18th century, sash windows were the dominant wooden design in most British homes. Since they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass However, by the 17th Century sash windows started to become more ornamental. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at the time but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they were a common feature in many of the period homes.

In the 19th century it was possible to make large, sturdy glass that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to increase further, which gave a better view out of the window. This was an important innovation.

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

The most common kind of sash is made from slow grown deal (pine) but oak was also used in more prestigious buildings and in 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 drafts. It is also essential that sash pulleys and idler wheels are in good shape as they aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As larger and clearer glass sheets became available, sash window began to replace hinged casements. They were coated with plate glass that was placed within timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

Sashes were introduced, which resulted in an increase in demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers shutter hinges and handles and a variety of fasteners to fix the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and designs that were engraved to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. This can be remedied by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the belief that old windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a little attention. However, these repairs can be expensive and involve considerable disruption to the home. Many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u from a 'one-stop shop' installation company. They can take down and replace all windows in a home in a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the whole process much faster. They are also available with energy-saving double-glazing, which can achieve greater energy efficiency than those offered by traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their style. Ironmongery like sash chain, mortice bolts and sash lock could be installed. These can be installed in a way that the window glass replacement cambridge remains open for ventilation or cleaning. These products are usually not noticeable, since they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. They should be replaced by more robust versions like those with double screws or sprung levers to decrease the risk of being struck by hammers.

Sash-broken window cambridge frames were constructed from slow grown deal or, in the more elegant homes, from oak. If glazing bars have survived, they should be preserved, and, if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by matching wood. PVC-U companies usually offer a one stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows on a complete home in one day, without the need to engage other tradespeople or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a large amount of light into the buildings. By the end 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 much lighter appearance, and windows with a greater level of elegance than they had before.

Sash windows were introduced and required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and leaded. There were also a variety of types of knobs and shutter hinges. The ironmongery pieces need to be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their fine design.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. Lack of attention to them regularly can result in:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

Holes in the frame which allow water to get in and cause damage and decay.

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

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their strength slim and handle affordable, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows are just as thermally efficient as double-glazed PVC-u windows and are more attractive than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows.

The replacement windows cambridge window industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were rotten, drafty and beyond economical repair. The reality is that many old timber windows are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be repaired for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your window's sash, it could lead to the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause the paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes could also cause structural movement in the frame, which can cause the sash not to close correctly. The sash may also become stuck in its open position, which allows the water and drafts to enter the property.

Damage to timber windows is often caused by water penetration. This can be prevented by thorough painting, periodic repairs, and removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten sections of timber must be removed and the affected part carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same type of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric retained and is among the least invasive methods of treating decay caused by timber.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to traditional staining and sanding. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is particularly useful in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which help stop breakage.

It is crucial that any old ironmongery such as sash stays and latches are retained and restored rather than replaced. They can be extremely difficult to replace without damaging the the original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided whenever possible as they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.