Why You Should Concentrate On Improving Sash Windows Cambridge

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows may get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture which can cause the timber to swell.

Traditionally, window doctor boxes utilized chains or cotton cords and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to address this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes, which are modular, can be restored to their original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows to comply with current energy standards and to comply with conservation area regulations. It also offers windows that are superior to upvc door repair options.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used in large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became cheaper and artisans could produce larger frames with greater glass. By the late 18th century sash windows were the dominant design of wood in the majority of British properties. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the use of curtains.

The first windows were made of clear glass, but in the 17th century sash windows started to be more decorative. They began with colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and less expensive, they were a common feature in many of the period homes.

By the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, sturdy glass that didn't require support bars. This allowed for the frame to be made bigger and, in turn, gave an improved view. This was a significant advancement.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and the beginning of I930s. The double Glazed door Seal repairs-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.

Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is essential to keep the separation bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will prevent draughts and rattles. It is also crucial that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good shape as they assist in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As larger and clearer sheets of glass became available, sash windows began replacing hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass placed within timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glass gradually replaced led lights.

Sashes were introduced, which resulted in an increase in demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers, shutter hinges and handles, and various fasteners used to secure the sashes. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and engravings that identified the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. Without this maintenance they could become noisy. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. You can fix this problem with wood-to-timber products.

The replacement window repairs near me industry relies heavily on the perception that older windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause substantial disruption to the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows with PVC-u from a huge "one-stop shop" installation company. They can replace and remove all windows in a home in a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much faster. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double glazing to get higher energy ratings than the traditional sash window. However double-glazed windows cannot replicate the section and proportions of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery such as sash chain, mortice bolts and sash locks can be installed. They can be positioned in a manner that the window repairs near me can still be open for ventilation and cleaning. These products are often unobtrusive as they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash window catches, which are required to be replaced with more robust versions (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the chance of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames are traditionally made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are intact, they should be retained. Where it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced by wood that matches. Many PVC-U firms offer a one-stop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on an entire house in just one day, without involving 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. At the end of the 18th century, they were altered to allow even more light into rooms, and larger glass panes began to be manufactured. The result was a more streamlined appearance, and windows that had a higher quality of design than before.

Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, while later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their fine design.

To keep them in good condition, wooden windows need to be maintained. A lack of regular attention could lead to:

Sashes that do not move effortlessly.

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

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

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their strength, slim and cheap, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash window are just as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The replacement window mechnism repair industry has done a lot to persuade house owners that their windows are rotten, draughty and beyond economic repair. Many old timber windows can be repaired and used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do this can lead to the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars, and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of the sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to be misaligned and not closing properly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or fixed in the open position and this can let water and draughts in the property.

Damage to windows made of timber is usually caused by moisture infiltration. This can be prevented by regular maintenance, thorough painting and removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, decaying wood. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut out and the affected area should be carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same kind of timber as the ones that remain. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric left, and is one of the least invasive methods of treating decay caused by timber.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is another alternative to the traditional method of staining and sanding. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly useful in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys where it can help to prevent the breakage.

It is important that any historic ironmongery such as sash stays and latches are kept and restored instead of replacing them. They can be extremely difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium fittings, such as sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.