How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in cambridge windows

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of how they look. Sash windows can get stuck and are difficult to open or shut. This is typically due to moisture, which can cause the wood to swell.

Traditionally, box sash windows utilised chains or cotton cord and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to overcome this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes and are modular, can be reconstructed to original dimensions. This allows the restoration to meet modern day energy requirements while still complying with conservation areas regulations. It also provides windows that have a superior appearance than the upvc door handle repairs near me window repairs near me, relevant web page, 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 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. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

Early windows were plain glass, but in the 17th century, sash windows began to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at first, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were a common feature in many historic homes.

By the 19th century it was possible to make large, sturdy glass that did not need support bars. This allowed the frame to be enlarged, which 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 towards the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s.

The most popular kind of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was utilized in more prestigious buildings and in earlier examples. It is essential to keep the parting bead which divides the sashes. This will prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers also are vital to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As larger and clearer sheets of glass were made available, sash windows began replacing hinged casements. Plate glass was set into frames of timber that were rebated, then pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to the frame's two sides for watertightness. This type of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

Sashes were introduced, which led to increased demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers shutter hinges and handles as well as various fasteners used to fix the sashes. These were usually decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be very energy-efficient with regular maintenance. If they are not maintained they can get noisy. Paint and putty can also cause draughts. 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 old windows are damaged beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause substantial disruption to the home. Many homeowners choose to replace their windows using PVC-u from a "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and eliminating the need for various tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than traditional windows with sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to reproduce the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery such as sash chain, mortice bolts, and sash lock can be put in place. These can be put in place in a way that the window is still able to be opened for ventilation or cleaning. They are generally unobtrusive, as they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches, which should be replaced with more robust models (such ones that have double glazing repairs cambridge screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the risk of them being hammered out.

Sash-window frames are usually constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. When glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. PVC-U companies usually offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on a complete house in a day without the need to engage other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a huge amount of light to enter buildings. At 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 with a greater degree of elegance than before.

Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new range ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and lead. There were also different kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good shape. Lack of regular attention may lead to:

Sashes that do not slide smoothly.

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

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

Steel casement windows became 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 shown that traditional softwood sash windows are just 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 replacement industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were decayed and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. However, many old windows made of wood are in good shape and with minor repairs can easily be maintained for years to come.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it could result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It could also cause paint and putty degrade. The removal of sashes may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to become misaligned and unable to close correctly. The sash can also be stuck in an open position, allowing water and draughts into the property.

Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to timber windows. This can be prevented by thorough 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 away to reveal soft, rotting timber. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut out and the affected area carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made of the same type of timber as the ones remaining. This repair method increases the amount original fabric and is among the least invasive ways to treat timber-to-timber rot.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to the traditional method of sanding and staining. It is brushed on the surface of the timber to stabilise and protect it from further damage. It is particularly beneficial for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to prevent breakage.

It is important that any old ironmongery such as sash stays and latches be kept and rehabilitated instead of being replacing them. They can be extremely difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings, such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided whenever possible as they can cause corrosion and damage to timber frames and sashes.