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. Sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open and close. This is usually due to moisture that can cause the wood to expand.

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

1. Aesthetics

In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are manufactured to modular imperial sizes Timber sash Windows Cambridge can be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and conform to conservation area regulations. It also offers an option that is superior to upvc door repair alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only found in large buildings or public buildings, however this changed as production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows were the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Since they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without the need for curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass but by the 17th century, sash windows started to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. These were very expensive at the time but as glass production improved and cheaper they were a common feature in numerous period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, sturdy glass that did not need support bars. This allowed the frame to be made bigger, which in turn gave an improved view. This was a significant innovation.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that was made towards the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously and allowed for better ventilation to buildings.

Oak was used in older and more luxurious buildings. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes. It is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are essential to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As larger and clearer glass sheets became available, sash window started replacing hinged casements. They were made of plate glass, set within rebated timber frames and pinned in place using glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This type of glass gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

Sashes were introduced, which resulted in an increase in demand for ironmongery. The most common fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights and stoppers for sashes, shutter hinges and handles and a variety of fasteners to secure the sashes. These were usually decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engravings to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. But, if you don't maintain them, they can become draughty and let in cold air. Paint and putty may also cause draughts. This can be corrected using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the perception that old windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a little attention. These repairs can be costly and cause lots of disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a huge 'one-stop shop' installation company. They can replace all windows in a home in one day, saving time and eliminating the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to get higher energy efficiency ratings than traditional sash windows. However these double-glazed units are unable to duplicate the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their style. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain, and sash lock can be used. These can be put in place in a way that the window remains able to be opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. These windows are typically discrete since they are made to work with sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window repairs cambridge catch. These should be replaced with more robust models, such as those with double screws or spring levers to decrease the chance of being hammered.

Sash-window doctor cambridge frames are usually made of oak or slow-grown deal. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept, and if it is it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with matching wood. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on an entire home in one day, without involving other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a large amount of light into structures. By the end 18th century, they had been modified to allow more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also made. 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 constructed of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of leaded and wood. There were also different kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. These ironmongery pieces should be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their beautiful design.

To keep them in good condition, wooden windows require regular maintenance. A lack of regular attention can lead to:

Sashes that don't slide smoothly.

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

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

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows gained popularity due to their strength slim and inexpensive and were in line with the trend for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash windows are just as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The industry of replacement windows has done a lot to convince homeowners that their windows are rotten, draughty and beyond repair. Many old timber windows can be fixed and used for many more years with minor upvc doors repairs.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your sash window, it could lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movement within the frame, which can cause the sash to not close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or fixed in an open position, which can let water and draughts in the structure.

Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided with regular repairs, thorough painting and removing the source of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable due to the wavy appearance of the paint that can be removed to reveal soft, rotting timber. Any rotten sections of timber must be removed and the affected part carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same type of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximises the amount of fabric left, and is among the least invasive ways of treating decay caused by timber.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to traditional staining and sanding. It is brushed on the surface of the wood to help stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is especially useful for the treatment of pulley cords and sash, where it can prevent breakage.

It is crucial that any old ironmongery such as sash stay and latches be kept and restored instead of replaced. These items are difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is also recommended that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.