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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of the way they appear. Sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open and close. This is often due moisture which can cause the timber to expand.

Box sash windows were historically operated using chains or cotton cords as well as lead weights. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to overcome this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes that are modular, can be reconstructed to original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and to comply with conservation area regulations. It also offers windows that have a more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames using larger glass. In the 18th century, Sash windows were the most popular wooden design in most British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light into rooms without the use of curtains.

The early windows were made of clear glass, but by the 17th Century, sash windows began to become more ornamental. They started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. They were costly at the beginning but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became commonplace in many homes of the period.

In the 19th century it was possible to make large, sturdy glass that did not require supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be made larger and, in turn, gave an improved view. This was an important innovation.

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

Oak was used in older examples and for more prestigious buildings. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead that separates the sashes. This will stop draughts and rattles. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are also essential to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets became available. Glass plates were set in frames made of timber, which were secured with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on the frame's two sides for watertightness. This type of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes led to the need for a wider range of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges, knobs and shutters as well as a range of fasteners to hold the sashes to their the right place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engraved patterns that identified the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. If they are not maintained they could become drafty. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of putty and paint. This can be corrected using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the belief that older windows are beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs are costly and can cause considerable disruption to the home. To avoid this homeowners, many choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a home in a single day, saving time and eliminating the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be fitted with 'energy-saving' double-glazing, which can achieve more energy efficient ratings than traditional windows made of sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to reproduce the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their appearance. Many types of ironmongery are available including sash chains mortice bolts, and locks for sash. These can be put in place to ensure that the window is able to be opened for ventilation or for cleaning. These windows are typically discrete since they are made to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. They are best replaced with more robust models like those with double screws or spring levers to decrease the chance of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames are typically constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. When glazing bars have survived they should be kept and, if feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. 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 involving other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a large amount of light to enter buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were altered to allow more light into rooms, and larger glazing panes began to be manufactured. The result was a much lighter appearance, and windows that had a higher quality of design than before.

Sash windows were introduced and required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a combination of lead and wood, and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their fine design.

To ensure they remain in good shape, timber windows need to be maintained. Inattention to maintenance routinely could cause:

Sashes that do not move smoothly.

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

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

Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s and I930s due to their strength and slim, and also because they were cheap and matched the trend of healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient in thermal efficiency as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and can be more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows.

The replacement window industry has done a lot to convince homeowners that their traditional windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. Many old timber windows can be fixed and used for a long time with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your sash window, it could cause the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause paint and putty become damaged. The removal of the sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to move out of alignment and not closing properly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or fixed in the open position and let water and draughts enter the structure.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by moisture infiltration. This can be prevented by regular repairs by thorough painting and eliminating the source of dampness. Wet rot can be identified due to the wavy appearance of the paint that can be removed to reveal soft, rotting timber. Any rotten timber sections should be cut out and the affected part carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same kind of timber as those remaining. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric used in the first place and is among the least invasive ways to treat wood-to-timber rot.

upvc casement windows cambridge  of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to traditional staining and sanding. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is particularly useful for the treatment of sash and pulley cords, which can stop breakage.

It is essential that any ironmongery from the past such as sash stay and latches are kept and rehabilitated instead of being replacing them. It can be difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also advised that modern fittings made of aluminium, such as sashlifts and chainstays, are avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.