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 look. However, sash windows may get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture that can cause the timber to swell.

Traditionally, window mechnism repair boxes used chains or cotton cords and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to overcome this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes, which are modular, can be restored to original dimensions. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows to meet the current energy requirements and to comply with conservation area regulations. It also gives a window with a far more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, though this changed as production became cheaper and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. In the 18th century, sash windows were the dominant wooden design in most British properties. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

The early windows were made of clear glass however, by the 17th Century the sash windows began to be more decorative. They were initially made of colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time but as glass production improved and cheaper they were a common feature in numerous 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 larger and, in turn, gave the viewer a better view. This was a significant innovation.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made towards the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.

The most common type of sash is constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more prestigious buildings and in earlier examples. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead that divides the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers also are essential for the proper operation of the window lock repairs.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger sheets of glass became available, sash windows began replacing hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass placed within timber frames with rebates and then pinned with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This kind of glass repair cambridge gradually replaced leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes resulted in a need for a much wider range of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners that secured the sashes to their the right place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engravings that identified the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. Without this maintenance they can get draughty. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of paint and putty. It is possible to fix this issue with wood-to-timber products.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the perception that old windows are damaged and beyond repair, while they are able to be maintained with a bit of care. However, these repairs can be costly and cause significant disruption to your home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows using PVC-u from a large "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can replace and remove all windows in an entire house in just one day, avoiding the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much more efficient. They can also be fitted with 'energy-saving' double-glazing to achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than those offered by traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions and sections of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery like sash chain, mortice bolts, and sash lock can be used. They can be fitted in a way so that the custom window repair is able to be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These are typically minimal in appearance, as they are designed to match the sash window repair near me. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash window catches, which should be replaced with more robust models (such ones with double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the possibility of them being hammered out.

Sash-window installation cambridge frames were constructed from slow-growing deal or, in more elegant homes, from oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and where possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with matching wood. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on an entire home in one day, without involving any other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light into structures. At the end of the 18th century, they were altered to allow more light into rooms and larger glass panes began to be produced. The result was a much more streamlined appearance, and windows with a higher level of elegance than they had before.

The introduction of sash windows also required a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, whereas later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a mixture 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 exquisite design.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good order. Inattention to maintenance routinely could lead to:

sashes that no longer slide easily.

holes in the frame that admit water that can cause decay and damage.

break down of the putty and allow water to penetrate, which could cause decay in the frame and cill.

Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s & I930s because they were strong and slim, cost-effective and matched the trend towards healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash windows are just as effective as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The replacement window industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed drafty, noisy and beyond repair. However, many old timber windows are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be serviceable for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your window's sash, it could result in the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame that 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 snagged or fixed in the open position, which can let water and draughts into the structure.

The damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture entry. This can be avoided by regular maintenance, thorough painting and removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. The rotten timber sections should be carefully removed and the affected part should be scarfed together or pieced together with replacements of the exact kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric used in the first place and is among the least invasive ways to treat timber-to-timber rot.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to the traditional method of staining and sanding. The product is brushed on to the surface of the timber to help stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is especially useful for the treatment of pulley cords and sash, where it can prevent breakage.

It is crucial to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, such as stay latches and sash latches. These items can be very difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings, such as sash lifts and chain stays should be avoided if possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made of timber.