How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of how they appear. Sash windows can become stuck and become difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture which can cause the wood to swell.

Box sash windows were traditionally operated by chains, cotton cords and weights made of lead. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes and are modular, can be restored to original dimensions. This allows the restoration to meet the current energy standards while complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also gives windows that have a superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, though the production process became cheaper and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. In the 18th century, sash windows were the dominant design of wood in the majority of British properties. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light into rooms without the use of curtains.

The early windows were made of glass that was plain however, in the 17th century sash windows started to become more ornamental. They began with colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were expensive at first, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became a common feature in many historic homes.

In the 19th century, it became possible to make large, strong glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be made larger which, in turn, provided the viewer a better view. This was a significant innovation.

The introduction of the double glazing repairs cambridge-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 another important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s.

The most common type of sash is constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more expensive buildings as well as in some earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes, and it is important that this is maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are also vital to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets were made available. They were coated with plate glass that was placed within timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This form of glass gradually replaced led lights.

The introduction of sashes resulted in an need for a larger variety of ironmongery with the basic fittings being brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges and knobs as well as a range of fasteners that secured the sashes in the right place. They were often decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be very energy-efficient with regular maintenance. However, if they are not maintained, they can become drafty and let in cold air. Putty and paint can also cause draughts. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber solutions.

The replacement window industry relies on the perception that old windows are damaged and beyond economical repair, whereas they can be maintained with just a little care. However, repairs to these windows can be costly and cause significant disruption to your home. To avoid this, many homeowners prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the largest "one stop shop" installation companies. These can remove and replace all the windows in a house within a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen, making the whole process much faster. They can also be fitted with 'energy-saving' double-glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than are possible with traditional windows with sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to duplicate the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their style. Many types of ironmongery can be fitted including sash chains mortice bolts, and sash locks. These can be installed in a way so that the window is able to be open for ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually unobtrusive, as they are designed to match the sash window. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window cleaning service catches and are required to be replaced with more robust versions (such as those incorporating double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the chance of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames were constructed from slow grown deal or, in more prestigious houses, from oak. If the glazing bars remain intact and are not damaged, they should be left. Where it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on a complete home in a single day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a substantial amount of light to flood into buildings. By the end of the 18th century, they were altered to allow more light into rooms and bigger glazing panes started to be manufactured. The result was a lighter appearance, and windows with a higher degree of elegance than before.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, whereas later Victorian ones were made from brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good order. A lack of attention to them regularly could lead to:

Sashes that do not move effortlessly.

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

break down of the putty and allow water penetration that could lead to decay of the frame and cill.

Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s & I930s because they were sturdy and slim, cost-effective and complemented the trend for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash windows are as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The industry of replacement windows did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. Many older timber windows can be repaired and utilized for a longer period with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need 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 shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to move out of alignment and in a position that it is not able to close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or fixed in the open position, which can let water and draughts in the structure.

Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be prevented by careful painting, regular repairs and the elimination of the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. The sections that are rotting must be removed with care and the affected area should be scarfed together or pieced together using replacements of the same kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair maximizes the amount original fabric and is one of most non-invasive methods to treat wood-to-timber rot.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to traditional staining or sanding. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulley cords and sash where it can prevent breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any historic ironmongery such as the sash latches and stays. They can be extremely difficult to replace without harming the quality of the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings, such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided if at all possible as they can cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.