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 can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture which can cause the timber to expand.

Traditionally, window boxes utilized chains, cotton cords or weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to solve this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes that are modular, are able to be restored to original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows to meet the current energy requirements and comply with conservation area regulations. It also offers windows that are superior to Upvc Door Handle Repairs Near Me alternatives.

Sliding sash window frames were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However the production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames using larger glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the need for curtains.

The early windows were made of plain glass However, in the 17th century sash windows started to become more ornamental. They began with colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were costly at first, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they became commonplace in many period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, strong glasses that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame to be made bigger, which in turn gave a better view. This was a significant innovation.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s.

Oak was used in older and more luxurious buildings. It is important to maintain the parting bead which divides the sashes. This will help 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 glass sheets became available, sash window began replacing hinged casements. They were made of plate glass, set in timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

The introduction of sashes resulted in a need for a much greater variety of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners to hold the sashes in place. These were often decorated in motifs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. But, if you don't maintain them, they can become drafty and let in cold air. Putty and paint can cause draughts. This can be remedied by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the notion that old windows are damaged beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. These upvc door handle repairs near me can be costly and cause a lot of disruption in the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows using PVC-u from a huge "one-stop shop" installation company. They can replace all windows in a home in a single day, saving time and avoiding the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving' double glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than a traditional sash window. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions or section 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 lock can be put in place. These can be put in place so that the window remains capable of being opened for ventilation or cleaning. These products are usually unobtrusive, as they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used with traditional sash window catches. These are best replaced with more robust versions, such as those with double screws or spring levers in order to reduce the chance of being hammered.

Sash-window frames are typically constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are still intact, they should be retained. If possible, the timber cills should be replaced with wood that matches. PVC-U companies usually provide a one-stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on an entire home in a single day without the need to involve other tradespeople or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

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

The introduction of sash windows also required a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and leaded. There were also a variety of kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. Ironmongery elements must be kept and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.

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

sashes that no longer slide easily.

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

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

Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s & I930s due to their strength and slim, cheap and matched the trend of healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are as thermally efficient as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The window replacement industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were rotten and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. The reality is that many old windows made of wood are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be maintained for years to be.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this could result in the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars, and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to become misaligned and unable to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or slammed into an open position and let water and draughts into the property.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by water entry. This can be avoided by regular maintenance, thorough painting and removing the source of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable due to the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped away to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any timber that is rotting must be removed and the affected area should be carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made of the same kind of timber as the ones that remain. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric retained and is one of the least invasive methods for treating timber-to-timber decay.

A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to the traditional sanding or staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the wood to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is particularly beneficial for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which help stop breakage.

It is important that any ironmongery from the past like sash stays and latches are retained and restored rather than replacing them. These items can be very difficult to replace without harming the the original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts and chainstays, are avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.