Why We Our Love For Sash Windows Cambridge And You Should Too

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. However, sash windows may get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture which can cause the wood to swell.

Traditionally, box sash windows used chains, cotton cords or lead weights to operate. Modern sash window springs are hidden to avoid this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed to modular imperial sizes, timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This lets the restoration be in line with modern energy requirements while complying with conservation area regulations. It also gives windows with a superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash window frames were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However the production became cheaper and artisans could make larger frames using greater glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden style in British homes. As they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.

The early windows were made of plain glass However, by the 17th Century sash windows started to become more ornamental. They were initially made of colored glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and cost-effective, they became a part of numerous period houses.

By the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, strong glass that did not need supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be made larger and, in turn, gave an improved view. This was a significant advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a significant improvement that came about towards the end of the I920s and 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.

Oak was used for older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is essential to keep the parting bead that divides the sashes. This will help prevent rattles and draughts. It is also important that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good shape as they aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets became available. Plate glass was set into frames made of timber, which were pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was then sprayed onto both sides of the frame to ensure watertightness. This type of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

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

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. But, if you don't maintain them, they can become draughty and let in cold air. Putty and paint can cause draughts. This can be corrected using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The replacement window industry relies heavily on the belief that older windows are beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows can be costly and cause considerable disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows using PVC-u from a huge "one-stop shop" installation company. These can remove and replace all the windows in a home in just one day, avoiding the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much quicker. They are also available with energy-saving double-glazing to achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than those offered by traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of replicating the proportions and sections of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their style. Ironmongery such as sash chain, mortice bolts, and sash lock can be put in place. They can be fitted to ensure that the window remains able to be opened to allow ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically not noticeable since they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches, which should be replaced with more robust models (such ones with double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the risk of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window installation cambridge frames were traditionally constructed from slow grown deal or, in more prestigious houses, from oak. If the glazing bars are intact and in good condition, they should be kept. Where it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. Many PVC-u firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can remove and replace windows throughout a home in a single day, without involving any other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a significant amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. By the end 18th century, they were modified to allow more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also created. The result was a much lighter appearance and windows with a greater quality of design than before.

The introduction of sash windows also required an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, while 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.

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

Sashes that no longer slide easily.

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

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

In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their strength slim and affordable, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are as efficient thermally as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and may be more appealing than the modern sleek design of casement windows.

The industry of replacement windows has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their traditional windows are rotten, draughty and beyond economic repair. Many older timber windows can be repaired and used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your sash window Installation cambridge, it could lead to the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes could also result in structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to become misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. The sash may also become stuck in its open position, which allows the water and drafts to enter the property.

The damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented by thorough painting, periodic repairs, and removing the source of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut out and the affected area should be carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made from the same kind of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount original fabric and is one of most non-invasive methods to treat the rot that occurs between timber and timber.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to the traditional method of staining and sanding. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which can help stop breakage.

It is essential that any old ironmongery such as sash stays and latches are kept and restored rather than replaced. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings, such as chain stays and sash lifts should be avoided if possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration to timber frames and sashes.