How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in cambridge windows and doors have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of how they appear. Sash windows can get stuck and become difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture which can cause the wood to expand.

Box sash windows were previously operated by chains or cotton cords as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to overcome this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes that are modular, can be restored to original dimensions. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows to meet the current energy requirements and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also provides a Vinyl window Repair that is far superior to upvc window lock repair alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used for large buildings 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 had become the most popular wooden style in British homes. As they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.

Early windows were simple glass but by the 17th century, sash windows began to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. These were very expensive at the time but as glass production became more efficient and cheaper they became a feature of numerous period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, strong glass that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame size to increase more, which in turn meant more of a view from the window. This was an important innovation.

The introduction of 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. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously and allowed for better ventilation to the building.

The most commonly used type of sash is constructed of slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was utilized in more luxurious buildings and in some earlier examples. A split bead divides the two sashes and it is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers also are crucial to the operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger sheets of glass became available, sash windows began to replace hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass set in timber frames with rebates 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.

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

Sash windows are energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. However, if they are not maintained, they can become draughty and let in cold air. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of putty and paint. This can be corrected making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the notion 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 avoid this homeowners, many prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the largest "one stop shop" installation companies. These can remove and replace all the windows in an entire house within a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much more efficient. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double glazing to get higher energy ratings than traditional sash window. However these double-glazed units are unable to duplicate the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery like sash chain, mortice bolts and sash locks can be put in place. These can be installed so that the upvc window renovation is still capable of being opened to allow ventilation or cleaning. These products are often unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catch. These are best replaced with more robust models like ones that have double screws or sprung levers, to minimize the possibility of being hit with hammers.

Sash-window frames are typically made of oak or slow-grown deal. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept and where it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by the same wood. PVC-u companies often provide a one-stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on a complete home in a single day without the need to engage other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light to flood into structures. By the end 18th century, they had been modified to allow more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also created. The result was a more light appearance and windows with more elegance.

Sash windows were introduced, which required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were made out 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. Ironmongery elements must be retained and cleaned down so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. Lack of regular attention may result in:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

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

break down of putty, allowing water to penetrate, which can lead to decay in the frame and cill.

Steel aluminium casement windows cambridge windows became popular in the I920s and I930s because they were sturdy and slim, cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows are as efficient in thermal efficiency as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and can be more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The industry of replacement windows has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were rotten, drafty and beyond economical repair. The truth is that a lot of old windows made of wood are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be maintained for years to be.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly could result in sash cords breaking, 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, which can cause the sash not to close properly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or fixed in the open position and let water and draughts into the property.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by water entry. This can be prevented with careful painting, regular repairs to upvc doors, and removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified by the wavy look of the existing paint which can be stripped away to reveal soft, rotting timber. The sections of timber that are rotten should be carefully removed and the affected area should be snared together or pieced together by using replacements of the same type as the remaining timber. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric that is left 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 wood to stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which 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 recommended that fittings made of aluminum, such as sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.