How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

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

Traditionally, box sash windows utilised chains or cotton cords and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to address this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, double glazing near me unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes that are modular, can be reconstructed to original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows in order to meet current energy requirements and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also offers a window repairs near me that is far superior to the upvc locksmith cambridge alternatives.

Sliding sash window frames were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However the production became less expensive and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. In the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant design of wood in the majority of British homes. Since they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.

Early windows were simple glass, but by the 17th century sash windows started to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were costly at the beginning but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were commonplace in many homes of the period.

In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, strong glasses that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be enlarged and, in turn, gave an improved view. This was a very important advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a significant improvement that came about in the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s.

The most commonly used type of sash is made from slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was used in the more expensive buildings as well as 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, Double Glazing Near Me idler wheels and sash rollers are also essential to the operation of the window doctor near me.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger glass sheets became available, sash window started replacing hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass placed within timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

The introduction of sashes resulted in an need for a wider range of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners that secured the sashes to their place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engravings that identified the maker.

Sash windows are energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. If they are not maintained they can get draughty. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be fixed by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the belief that old windows are damaged beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a bit of attention. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause considerable disruption to the home. To avoid this homeowners often prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. These can remove and replace all windows in a house in a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much more efficient. They are also available with energy-saving Double glazing near me-glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than traditional sash windows. Double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions and sections of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their aesthetics. A variety of ironmongery types can be fitted with sash chains, mortice bolts, and locks for sash. They can be fitted to ensure that the window remains capable of being opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. These products are often unobtrusive as they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used alongside traditional sash-window catches, which are required to be replaced with more robust models (such ones with double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the possibility of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames are usually made of oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are still intact and are not damaged, they should be left. If it is possible, the timber cills should be replaced by wood that matches. PVC-U companies usually provide a one-stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows on an entire house in a day without the need to engage other tradespeople or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a large amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. By the end of the 18th century, they were modified to let even more light into rooms and larger glass panes began to be produced. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with more elegance.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated the creation of a new line of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, whereas later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be kept and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

To ensure they remain in good shape, timber windows must be maintained. Lack of regular attention may cause:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

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

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

Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s & I930s because they were sturdy and slim, and also because they were cheap and complemented the trend for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are as efficient thermally as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and are more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The window repairs cambridge replacement industry has done a lot to convince homeowners that their windows are dirty, noisy and beyond repair. Many old windows made of timber are repairable and can be used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your window's sash, it could lead to the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to become damaged. The removal of the sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to move out of alignment and in a position that it is not able to close properly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or fixed in an open position and this can let water and draughts into the structure.

Damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented with careful painting, regular repairs and the elimination of the source of dampness. Wet rot can be identified due to the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped to reveal rotting, soft timber. The sections that are rotting must be removed with care, and the affected area should be snared together or pieced together with replacements of the exact nature as the rest of the timber. This method of upvc door repair cost increases the amount original fabric and is among the least invasive ways to treat wood-to-timber rot.

A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to traditional process of sanding or staining. This is brushed onto the surface of the timber to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is especially useful for treating pulley cords and sash, where it can prevent breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any historic ironmongery such as stay latches and sash latches. They can be extremely difficult to replace without damaging the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings like chain stays and sash lifts is avoided whenever possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.