How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and become difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture, which can cause the timber to expand.
Traditionally, windows made of box sash used chains or cotton cord and lead weights to operate. Modern sash window maintenance springs are hidden to eliminate this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Contrary to PVC-u wooden windows and doors cambridge which are manufactured according to the modular imperial size, timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This lets the restoration meet the current energy standards while still complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also offers windows that have a superior appearance than uPVC alternatives.
Sliding windows with sash were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However, this changed when production became cheaper and artisans could create larger frames using greater glass. By the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant design of wood in the majority of British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the use of curtains.
The early windows were made of glass that was plain, but in the 17th century the sash windows began to become more attractive. They started with coloured glazing bars, also known as mullions. These were very expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and less expensive, they became a part of many period houses.
In the 19th century, it became possible to make large, sturdy glasses that didn’t require support bars. This allowed the frame’s size to be increased even further and this in turn allowed for a wider view out of the window maintenance. This was a significant advancement.
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 at the same time and also improved the ventilation of the building.
Oak was used for older examples and for more prestigious buildings. It is essential to keep the parting bead which divides the sashes. This will stop draughts and rattles. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers also are crucial for the proper operation of the window.
2. Energy efficiency
Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets became available. Plate glass was set into frames of timber that were rebated, then pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was then sprayed onto the frame’s sides for watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually superseded led lights.
The introduction of sashes resulted in a need for a much larger variety of ironmongery with the basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers, shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners that secured the sashes to their the right place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engraved patterns that identified the maker.
With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. If they are not maintained they could become noisy. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of putty and paint. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber products.
The replacement window industry relies heavily on the notion that older windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a bit of attention. However, repairs to these windows can be costly and cause significant disruption to your home. To prevent this homeowners often opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one of the many ‘one stop shop’ installation companies. They can replace all windows in a home in one day, thereby saving time and avoiding 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 are possible with traditional windows with sash. However, these double-glazed units cannot duplicate the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.
3. Security
It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising on their aesthetics. Many types of ironmongery can be fitted with sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. These can be put in place in a way that the Window Lock repairs is still able to be opened for ventilation or for cleaning. These windows are typically unobtrusive as they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be used alongside traditional sash-window catchers that should be replaced with more robust models (such as those incorporating double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the possibility of them being hammered out.
Sash-window frames are typically made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are intact and in good condition, they should be kept. If it is it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced with wood that is in line with. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows across a home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.
4. Ventilation
Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a large amount of light into buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were adapted to allow even more light into rooms and larger glazing panes began to be produced. The result was a much more streamlined appearance, and windows with a greater quality of design than before.
Sash windows were introduced and required a new range ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, whereas later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their fine design.
Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good order. Lack of regular attention may lead to:
Sashes that don’t slide smoothly.
holes in the frame that admit water, which can cause damage and decay.
Water can get into the putty and cause decay to the frame or cill.
In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their durability slim and inexpensive, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash windows are just as effective as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.
The industry of replacement windows has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. The reality is that many old windows made of timber are in good shape and, with minor repairs, could easily be maintained for years to be.
5. Maintenance
A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you don’t maintain your window’s sash, it could lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause paint and putty become damaged. The removal of the sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to be misaligned and not closing properly. The sash may also become stuck in the open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the building.
The damage to timber windows is often caused by water penetration. This can be avoided by careful painting, regular repairs, and removing the source of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy appearance of the existing paint which can be removed to reveal soft, rotting wood. The rotten timber sections should be carefully removed, and the affected area should be snared together or pieced together by using replacements of the same kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric left, and is among the least invasive methods for treating decay caused by timber.
The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to traditional sanding and staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the timber to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful for the treatment of sash cords and pulleys where it can help to prevent breakage.
It is crucial that any old ironmongery like sash stays and latches are retained and restored instead of replacing them. It can be difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided whenever feasible as they could cause corrosion and deterioration to timber frames and sashes.