How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

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

Traditionally, window boxes utilised chains or cotton cord and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to address this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed to modular imperial sizes the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original size. This lets the restoration meet the current energy standards while still complying with conservation area regulations. It also gives windows with a superior appearance than upvc window repairs near me alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, though the production process was less expensive and craftsmen were able to produce larger frames with more glass. In the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant wooden windows cambridge design in most British properties. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light in rooms without the use of curtains.

Early windows were plain glass, but in the 17th century sash windows were becoming more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were costly at first, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were a common feature in many historic homes.

In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, sturdy glasses that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame size to be increased even more, which in turn meant more of a view from the window. This was an important innovation.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and at the beginning of I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously and allowed for better ventilation to buildings.

Oak was used for older examples and more prestigious buildings. A parting bead separates the two sashes, and it is important that this is maintained in order to avoid rattles and drafts. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good condition as these help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets were made available. Plate glass was placed in frames made of timber, which were secured with glazing sprigs and putty was then sprayed onto the frame's two sides for watertightness. This type 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 stoppers, shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners that secured the sashes in the right place. They were often decorated with patterns, inscriptions and patterns engraved to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. If they are not maintained they can get noisy. Paint and putty can also cause draughts. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber solutions.

The replacement window industry relies heavily on the belief that older windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a bit of attention. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause significant disruption to your home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows using PVC-u from a "one-stop shop" company for installation. These can remove and replace all the windows in a home within a single day, avoiding the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much more efficient. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than traditional windows with sash. Double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions or section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain and sash locks can be installed. These can be installed so that the window is open to allow ventilation or for cleaning. These are typically unobtrusive, as they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. These are best replaced with more robust versions, such as those that incorporate double screws or spring levers, to minimize the risk of being hit with hammers.

Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more luxurious homes, from oak. If the glazing bars remain in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. If it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop installation service. They can take down and replace windows on an entire house in just one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a significant amount of light into structures. By the end 18th century, they had been adapted so that even more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also created. The result was a lighter appearance, and windows that had a higher quality of design than before.

Sash windows were introduced, which required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of leaded and wood. There were also various kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. Ironmongery elements must be retained and cleaned down to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. Inattention to maintenance could lead to:

Sashes that don't slide smoothly.

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

break down of the putty and allow water to penetrate, which could lead to decay of the frame and cill.

In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity because they were strong, slim and cheap and were in line with the trend for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are as thermally efficient as double-glazed PVC-u windows and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The Window Maintenance replacement industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were rotten and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. The truth is that a lot of old windows made of wood are in good shape and with minor repairs can easily be repaired for many years to be.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window seal repairs near me requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your sash window, it can lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movements within the frame, causing the sash not to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or fixed in the open position and let water and draughts into the property.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented with careful painting, regular repairs and the elimination of the source of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified by the wavy look of the paint, which can be stripped to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any rotten timber sections must be removed and the affected area carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same type of wood as the ones that remain. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric retained and is one of the least invasive methods for treating decay of timber to timber.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to traditional staining and sanding. This is brushed onto the surface of the wood to stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is especially beneficial for treating pulley cords and sash, which can stop breakage.

It is crucial to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, like the sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided whenever possible as they can cause corrosion and damage to timber frames and sashes.