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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in cambridge windows and doors

Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is usually due moisture that can cause the wood to swell.

Traditionally, box sash windows utilized chains, cotton cords or weights made of lead to operate. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to avoid this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes and are modular, can be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration to be in line with modern energy requirements while complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also offers windows that have a superior appearance than upvc door handle repairs near me alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, but the production process became less expensive and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. In the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant wooden design in most British properties. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the use of curtains.

The early windows were made of plain glass, but in the 17th century, sash windows began to become more attractive. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. These were very expensive at the time but as glass production improved and cost-effective, they became a feature of numerous period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to produce large, strong glasses that didn't need supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be made larger and, in turn, gave an improved view. This was an important improvement.

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

The most popular type of sash is constructed from slow grown deal (pine) however oak was used in the more expensive buildings as well as in earlier examples. It is important to maintain the separation bead that separates the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. It is also essential that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good working order as they aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as clearer and larger sheets were made available. Plate glass was set into frames of timber that were rebated, then secured with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on the frame's two sides for watertightness. This form of glass gradually replaced led lights.

The introduction of sashes created the need for a greater variety of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners that secured the sashes to their place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and engravings that identified the maker.

Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. But, if you don't maintain them, they can become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can cause draughts too. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber products.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the belief that older windows are old and beyond economical repair, whereas they can be maintained with a little attention. However, these upvc repairs can be costly and cause substantial disruption to the home. To avoid this homeowners often opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows made by one of the large "one stop shop" installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, thereby saving time and eliminating the need for various tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be fitted with 'energy saving' double-glazing, which can achieve more energy efficient ratings than traditional windows with sash. However, these double-glazed units cannot duplicate the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. Many types of ironmongery can be fitted, including sash chains, mortice bolts, and sash locks. These can be installed in a manner that the window can still be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually not noticeable, since they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash window doctor catches and are required to be replaced with more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or spring levers to decrease the possibility of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames were constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more prestigious houses made of oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and, if feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on a complete home in a single day without the need to engage other tradespeople, or coordinate 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 into structures. At the end of the 18th century, they were altered to allow more light into rooms and bigger glazing panes started to be made. The result was a much more streamlined appearance, and windows with a greater level of elegance than they had before.

Sash windows were introduced, which required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of leaded and wood. There were also various types of knobs and shutter hinges. These ironmongery pieces must be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their beautiful design.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. Inattention to maintenance can result in:

sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

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

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

Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s and I930s because they were strong and slim, cost-effective and matched the trend towards healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are as efficient in thermal efficiency as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and can be more attractive than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows.

The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their traditional windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. However, many old windows made of timber are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be maintained for years to be.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do 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 the sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to be misaligned and unable to close correctly. The sash could also get stuck in the open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the building.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by moisture penetration. This can be prevented by regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped away to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any timber that is rotting should be cut out and the affected area carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same kind of timber as the ones that remain. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric that is left and is one of the least invasive ways of treating timber-to-timber decay.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is an alternative to traditional sanding and staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the wood to help stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful for the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which help prevent breakage.

It is important that any historic ironmongery such as sash stays and latches be kept and restored instead of replaced. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also recommended that modern aluminium fittings, such as sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.