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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of the way they appear. Sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open and close. This is usually due to moisture that can cause the wood to expand.

Traditionally, box sash windows used chains, cotton cords or lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes and are modular, can be reconstructed to their original dimensions. This lets the restoration meet modern day energy requirements while still complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also provides a window with a far superior appearance than emergency upvc door repairs door repair cost; funny post, alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used in large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became more affordable and artisans could create larger frames using more glass. By the late 18th century Sash windows were the most popular design of wood in the majority of British homes. Sash windows were simple 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 become more ornamental. They were initially made of colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were expensive at the beginning but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were an integral feature in many homes of the period.

By the 19th century it was possible to make large, strong glass that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to be increased even further and this in turn meant more of a view from the window. This was a very important advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that occurred at the end of the 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 the building.

The most popular type of sash is made from slow grown deal (pine) however oak was also used in more prestigious buildings and in some earlier examples. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes. It is essential that it is well maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers are also vital to the operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

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

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

Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. But, if you don't maintain them, they can become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of paint and putty. This can be fixed by using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the perception that old windows are damaged beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However, they can easily 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 prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the large "one-stop shop" installation companies. They can take down and replace all the windows in a house in just one day, avoiding the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen, making the whole process much quicker. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than the traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their aesthetics. There are many types of ironmongery that are available with sash chains, mortice bolts and sash locks. They can be fitted in a way that the window is able to be opened to allow ventilation or cleaning. These are typically minimal in appearance, as they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches, which are required to be replaced with more robust models (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the risk of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow-growing deal or, in more luxurious homes they were made from oak. If the glazing bars are in good condition, they should be retained. If it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced with wood that matches. PVC-u companies typically provide a one-stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on an entire home in one day, without the need to engage other tradespeople or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a large amount of light to enter buildings. In the 18th century, they were modified to allow more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also created. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with more elegance.

Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new type of 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 many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces must be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their exquisite design.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good shape. Inattention to maintenance routinely could result in:

sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

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

break down of putty allowing water penetration that could lead to decay of the frame and cill.

In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their durability, slim and cheap 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 can even be more attractive.

The industry of replacement windows has done a lot to persuade house owners that their old windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. Many old timber windows can be repaired and used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can lead to the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movements within the frame, causing the sash not to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or fixed in an open position and let water and draughts into the property.

Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to timber windows. This can be prevented by thorough painting, periodic repairs and elimination of the source of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified by the wavy look of the paint, which can be removed to reveal soft, rotting timber. The rotten timber sections should be carefully removed and the affected part should be scarfed together or glued together using replacements of the same kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric used in the first place and is one of most minimally invasive methods of treating the rot that occurs between timber and timber.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to the traditional method of staining and sanding. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which help prevent breakage.

It is essential that any historic ironmongery such as sash stays and latches are retained and restored rather than replaced. It can be difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings, such as sash lifts and chain stays should be avoided if possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration to timber frames and sashes.