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

Traditionally, windows made of box sash used chains or cotton cord and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Unlike PVC-u windows that are constructed to modular imperial sizes Timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration to meet the current energy standards while ensuring compliance with conservation regulations for the area. It also comes with a window that is far superior to the Upvc door Repairs alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, but this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. In the late 18th century sash windows were the dominant design of wood in the majority of British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the need for curtains.

Early windows were plain glass but by the 17th century, sash windows were becoming more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. These were very expensive at the time but as glass repair cambridge production became more efficient and cheaper they became a feature of many of the period homes.

By the 19th century it was possible to create large, sturdy glass that did not require supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be made bigger which, in turn, provided a better view. This was a significant innovation.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and gave improved ventilation to a building.

Oak was used in older examples and for more prestigious buildings. A parting bead separates the two sashes. It is important that this is maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are essential to the operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger glass sheets became available, sash windows began replacing hinged casements. Glass plates were set in rebated timber frames, secured with glazing sprigs and putty was then sprayed onto the frame's sides for watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

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

With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they can become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty may also cause draughts. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber products.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the notion that older windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a little attention. These repairs can be costly and cause lots of disruption to the 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. They can take down and replace all windows in a house in just one day, avoiding the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much faster. They can also be fitted with 'energy-saving' double-glazing to achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than those offered by traditional windows made of sash. Double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions and section of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery, such as mortice bolts, sash chain and sash locks can be installed. They can be fitted in a manner that the window is able to be opened for ventilation and cleaning. They are generally minimal in appearance, as they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window repair catches. They should be replaced with more robust versions, such as those with double screws, or sprung levers, to minimize the risk of being hammered.

Sash-window frames are usually constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars remain in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. Where possible, the timber cills should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. PVC-u companies often offer a one stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows on a complete home in one day, without the need to engage other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a large amount of light into buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were adapted to allow more light into rooms and larger glass panes began to be manufactured. The result was a much more streamlined appearance, and windows that had a higher degree of elegance than before.

Sash windows were introduced, which required a new type of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be kept and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good order. Inattention to maintenance could lead to:

Sashes that do not slide effortlessly.

holes in the frame that admit water causing damage and decay.

The putty can be soaked by water and cause decay to the frame or cill.

In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows gained popularity due to their durability slim and affordable and were in line with the trend for healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash windows are just as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The replacement window industry did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed, drafty and beyond economical repair. Many older timber windows are repairable and can be used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your sash window, it can lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It could also cause paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to be misaligned 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 and let water and draughts in the structure.

Damage to windows made of timber is usually caused by moisture entry. This can be avoided by regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the source of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable due to the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped to reveal soft, rotting wood. The sections of timber that are rotten must be removed with care, and the affected area should be scarfed or pieced together by using replacements of the same nature as the rest of the timber. This method of upvc door repair increases the amount of original fabric retained and is one of the least invasive methods of treating decay of timber to timber.

A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to the traditional staining or sanding. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is especially beneficial for treating pulley cords and sash where it can prevent breakage.

It is essential that any ironmongery from the past such as sash stays and latches be kept and restored instead of replacing them. These items are difficult to replace without damaging the the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings like sash lifts and chain stays is avoided if at all possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.