How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows may become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture, which can cause the wood to expand.

Box sash windows were traditionally operated by chains or cotton cords, as well as lead weights. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed 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 sizes. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows in order to meet the current energy requirements and to comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also provides windows that have a superior appearance than Upvc repairs Near me alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally intended for large structures or public buildings. However the production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames using larger glass. At 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 glass that was plain, but by the 17th Century, sash windows began to be more decorative. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at first, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were commonplace in many homes of the period.

In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, strong glasses that didn't need support bars. This allowed the frame to be made larger 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 towards the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and allowed for better ventilation to buildings.

Oak was used for older examples and for more prestigious buildings. A split bead divides the two sashes. It is essential that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers also are crucial for the proper operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets became available. Plate glass was set into rebated timber frames, pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on the frame's sides to ensure watertightness. This type of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

The introduction of sashes created the need for a greater variety of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, knobs and shutters as well as a range of fasteners to hold the sashes into place. These were usually decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engravings to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. However, if they are not maintained, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. This can be fixed by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the perception that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, while they are able to be maintained with a bit of care. upvc repairs near me can be costly and cause a lot of disruption in the home. To prevent this, many homeowners prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the largest "one stop shop" installation companies. They can replace and remove all windows in a house in just one day, eliminating the need to coordinate 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 are possible with traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions and sections of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising on their aesthetics. There are many types of ironmongery that are available, including sash chains, mortice bolts and sash locks. They can be positioned in a way so that the window can be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually minimal in appearance, as they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches that must be replaced by more robust models (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring levers to decrease the risk of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames are typically constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are intact and in good condition, they should be kept. If it is possible, the timber cills should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on a complete house in a day without the need to engage other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light to flood into structures. By the end of the 18th century, they were adapted to allow even more light into rooms, and bigger glazing panes started to be made. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with more elegance.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and lead. There were also a variety of types of knobs and shutter hinges. These ironmongery pieces should be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their fine design.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good shape. A lack of regular attention can lead to:

Sashes that do not move smoothly.

holes in the frame allow water causing damage and decay.

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

In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows gained popularity due to their durability slim and affordable and also matched the fashion for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash window doctor cambridge are just as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their old windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. Many old windows made of timber can be fixed and utilized for a longer period with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly can result in sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movements within the frame, causing the sash to not close properly. The sash could also get stuck in the 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 thorough painting, regular repairs and elimination of the source of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified by the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be removed to reveal rotting, soft timber. The sections of timber that are rotten should be carefully cut out and the affected part should be scarfed or glued together with replacements of the exact nature as the rest of the timber. This method of repair increases the amount of original fabric left, and is one of the least invasive methods for treating decay caused by timber.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to traditional staining and sanding. This is brushed onto the surface of the wood to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is especially beneficial for the treatment of sash and pulley cords, which can stop breakage.

It is important that any old ironmongery such as sash stay and latches are retained and restored instead of replaced. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also advised that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.