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. However, sash windows can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture which can cause the timber to expand.

Box sash windows were historically operated with chains or cotton cords as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to overcome this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes that are modular, can be restored to original dimensions. This allows the restoration to be in line with modern energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation areas regulations. It also comes with an option that is superior to the uPVC options.

Sliding sash windows were originally only used in large buildings or public buildings, but the production process became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden design in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the use of curtains.

The early windows were made of clear glass however, in the 17th century, sash windows began to become more ornamental. They were initially made of colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were costly initially, but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became an integral feature in many homes of the period.

By the 19th century it was possible to make large, strong glass that did not need supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to be increased even further and this in turn allowed for a wider view from the window. This was a very important improvement.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double glazing seal repairs-hung sliding window and door repair near me 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 allowed for better ventilation to buildings.

Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. A split bead divides the two sashes, and it is vital that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and drafts. It is also crucial that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good shape as they aid in operating the window repairs near me.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets were made available. Plate glass was set into rebated timber frames, secured with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to the frame's sides to ensure watertightness. This type of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

The introduction of sashes created a need for a much greater variety of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers, shutter hinges and knobs as well as a range of fasteners to hold the sashes into place. These were usually decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. Without this maintenance, they can become drafty. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of paint and putty. This can be corrected using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The replacement window industry relies on the assumption that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, but they are able to be maintained with a little attention. These repairs can be costly and cause many disruptions in the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows with PVC-u from a large "one-stop shop" installation company. These can remove and replace all windows in an entire house in a single day, eliminating the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much faster. They can also be supplied with 'energy-saving' double-glazing to get greater energy efficiency than traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed units are not able to replicate the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their style. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain and sash locks can be installed. These can be installed in a way so that the window is able to be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These windows are typically discrete since they are made to work with sash windows. They can be used alongside traditional sash window catches, which must be replaced by more robust versions (such ones with double glazing repairs near me screws) or sprung levers to reduce the risk of them being hammered out.

Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow grown 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 by the same wood. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop installation service. They can remove and replace windows throughout a home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.

4. ventilation Repair cambridgeshire

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a large amount of light to flood into the buildings. In the 18th century, they had been adapted so that even more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also made. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with a greater degree of elegance than before.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, while later Victorian ones were made from brass or a mixture of lead and wood and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces must be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their beautiful design.

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

sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

Holes in the frame which allow water to enter and cause decay and damage.

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

In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their strength slim and affordable, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash windows are just as effective as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The window replacement industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were rotten, drafty and beyond economical repair. The truth is that a lot of old timber windows are in good condition and with minor repairs could easily be repaired for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window repair needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your sash window, it could cause the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause paint and putty to become damaged. The removal of sashes may also cause structural movement in the frame, causing the sash to not close properly. The sash could also get stuck in its open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the property.

Damage to timber windows is often caused by water entry. This can be prevented with thorough painting, periodic repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, decaying wood. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut out and the affected area should be carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same type of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximises the amount of fabric that is left and is one of the least invasive methods of treating decay caused by timber.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to traditional sanding or staining. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is especially beneficial for treating pulley cords and sash, which can help prevent breakage.

It is crucial to restore and not replace any old ironmongery such as the sash latches and stays. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, are avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.