Why You Should Focus On Improving Sash Windows Cambridge

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture that can cause the wood to swell.

Box sash windows were historically operated using chains, cotton cords and 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 and are modular, are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows in order to meet the current energy requirements and conform to conservation area regulations. It also provides windows that have a more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally intended for large structures or public buildings. However, this changed when production became more affordable and artisans could make larger frames using more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. As they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

cambridge doors and windows Repair My Windows And Doors  were simple glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows began to become more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and cost-effective, they were a common feature in numerous period houses.

In the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, strong glass that didn't require support bars. This allowed for the frame to be enlarged which, in turn, provided a better view. This was a significant advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and 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 and more luxurious buildings. It is important to maintain the parting bead which divides the sashes. This will stop rattles and draughts. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good shape as they assist in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

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

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

With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty may cause draughts. This can be fixed by using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The replacement window industry relies on the perception that older windows are old and beyond repair, whereas they can be easily maintained with a bit of care. These repairs can be costly and cause many disruptions in the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows using PVC-u from a huge "one-stop shop" company for installation. These can remove and replace all the windows in a house within a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much more efficient. They can also be supplied with 'energy-saving' double-glazing, which can achieve greater energy efficiency than traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions and sections of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their appearance. There are many types of ironmongery that can be installed including sash chains mortice bolts and locks for sash. These can be installed in such a way that the window is able to be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually minimal in appearance, as they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used with traditional sash window catch. They are best replaced with more robust versions, such as those with double screws or sprung levers to decrease the risk of being hammered.

Sash-window frames are usually made of oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars remain intact, they should be retained. Where possible, the timber cills should be replaced with wood that is in line with. Many PVC-U firms offer a one-stop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on an entire home in a single day, without involving other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a large amount of light into buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were adapted so that even more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with more elegance.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and lead. There were also a variety of kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be maintained and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. Inattention to maintenance routinely could cause:

Sashes that don't slide easily.

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

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

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

The industry of replacement windows has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were rotten drafty, noisy and beyond repair. Many older timber windows can be fixed and utilized for a longer period with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require 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 can also cause paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of the sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to become misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. The sash could also get stuck in an open position, allowing the water and drafts to enter the property.

Damage to timber windows is often caused by water infiltration. This can be avoided by regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. 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 type of wood as those 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 another alternative to traditional sanding and staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is especially useful to treat pulley cords and sash, where it can prevent breakage.

It is crucial that any historic ironmongery such as sash stay and latches are kept and rehabilitated instead of being replacing them. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided if at all possible as they can cause corrosion and damage to frames and sashes made of timber.