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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in cambridge windows and doors have sash windows that are traditional and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can become stuck and are difficult to open and close. This is usually due to moisture that can cause the wood to swell.

Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilized chains, cotton cords or lead weights to operate. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to eliminate this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes that are modular, can be restored to their original dimensions. This lets the restoration be in line with modern energy requirements while still complying with conservation areas regulations. It also provides a window with a far more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used for large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became more affordable and artisans could produce larger frames with larger glass. In the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant design of wood in the majority of British properties. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light into rooms without the use of curtains.

The early windows were made of plain glass however, by the 17th Century sash windows started to become more ornamental. They started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they were a common feature in many of the period homes.

By the 19th century it was possible to create large, strong glass that did not require support bars. This allowed for 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 another important improvement that occurred towards the end of the I920s and the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously, and also improved the ventilation of the building.

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

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger sheets of glass were made available, sash windows began to replace hinged casements. They were coated with plate glass that was set within rebated timber frames and secured with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This type of glass gradually replaced led lights.

The introduction of sashes resulted in a need for a much larger variety of ironmongery including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges, knobs and shutters as well as a range of fasteners that secured the sashes into the right place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and designs that were engraved to identify the maker.

Sash windows are energy-efficient with regular maintenance. However, if they are not maintained, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty may cause draughts too. This issue can be fixed with wood-to-timber products.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the perception that older windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. However, repairs to these windows can be costly and cause significant disruption to your home. To avoid this homeowners often opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one of the many "one-stop shop" installation companies. They can replace and remove all windows in a home in a single day, eliminating the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much faster. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than the traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions or section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery like mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be installed. These can be installed in a way so that the window can still be opened for ventilation and cleaning. They are generally not noticeable, since they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches, which must be replaced by more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or spring levers to decrease the chance of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow grown deal or, in the more elegant homes made of oak. If the glazing bars are still intact and are not damaged, they should be left. If it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced by wood that matches. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can remove and replace windows on a complete home in one day, without involving other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a significant amount of light into buildings. By the end of the 18th century, they were altered to allow even more light into rooms, and bigger glazing panes started to be made. The result was a more streamlined appearance, and windows that had a higher level of elegance than they had before.

Sash windows were introduced, which required a new type of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, while later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of lead and wood, and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be maintained and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

To keep them in good condition, wooden windows cambridge windows require regular maintenance. Inattention to maintenance routinely could result in:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

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

break down of putty allowing water penetration that could cause decay in the frame and cill.

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their strength slim and affordable and also matched the fashion for healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows are just as thermally efficient as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows.

The replacement window industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their traditional windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. However, many older timber windows are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be repaired for many years to be.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this could result in sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of the sashes may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to become misaligned and unable to close correctly. The sash could also get stuck in its open position, which allows water and draughts into the property.

Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be avoided by regular repairs, thorough painting and removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by 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 wood as the ones that remain. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric retained and is among the least invasive methods of treating decay of timber to timber.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to the traditional method of staining and sanding. It is brushed on the surface of the wood to help stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful for treating pulley cords and sash which can help prevent breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery, like sash latches and stays. These items can be very difficult to replace without harming the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that fittings made of aluminum, such as sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.