20 Tips To Help You Be More Successful At Sash Windows Cambridge

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

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

Box sash windows were historically operated using chains, cotton cords and weights made of lead. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes, which are modular, can be restored to their original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows to meet the current energy requirements and conform to conservation area regulations. It also gives windows with a superior appearance than the Upvc Door Repairs alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, though this changed when production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to produce larger frames with more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden design in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the need for curtains.

Early windows were simple glass but by the 17th century, sash windows started to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. These were very expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and less expensive, they became a feature of numerous period houses.

In the 19th century it was possible to make large, sturdy glass that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame size to be increased even more, which in turn gave a better view out of the window. This was a very important advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that occurred towards 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 also improved the ventilation of a building.

The most commonly used type of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was used in the more expensive buildings as well as in some earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes. It is important that this is maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. It is also crucial that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good shape as they help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets became available. Plate glass was placed in rebated timber frames, which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was then sprayed onto both sides of the frame to ensure watertightness. This type of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes led to an need for a wider range of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes in the right place. These were often decorated in patterns, inscriptions and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. But, if you don't maintain them, they can become draughty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of putty and paint. This can be corrected making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the perception that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, while they can be easily maintained with just a little care. However, upvc doors repairs to these windows are costly and can cause significant disruption to your home. To prevent this homeowners often opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows made by one of the many "one-stop shop" installation companies. They can replace and remove all the windows in a home within a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much faster. They can also be supplied with 'energy-saving' double-glazing, which can achieve greater energy efficiency than are possible with traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions or section of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their appearance. A variety of ironmongery types are available with sash chains, mortice bolts and sash locks. They can be fitted in a manner that the window can still be open for ventilation and cleaning. They are usually discrete since they are made to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers that should be replaced with more robust models (such ones with double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the risk of them being hammered open.

Sash-window repairs cambridge frames are usually constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars remain in good condition, they should be retained. If possible, the timber cills should be replaced with wood that is in line with. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows across a home in one day, without the need to engage other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

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

The introduction of sash windows also required an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of wood and leaded. There were also various kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their beautiful design.

To keep them in good condition, timber windows require regular maintenance. Inattention to maintenance could lead to:

Sashes that no longer slide easily.

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

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

Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s and I930s because they were sturdy and slim, cost-effective and matched the trend towards healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as efficient thermally as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and may be more appealing than the modern sleek design of casement windows.

The industry of replacement windows has done a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. Many old windows made of timber can be fixed and used for a long time with minor upvc doors repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your window's sash, it could cause the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause paint and putty become damaged. The removal of sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to be misaligned and not closing properly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or slammed into an open position and this can let water and draughts in the property.

Damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented with careful painting, regular upvc door repairs, and removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. The rotten timber sections should be carefully removed, and the affected area should be snared together or glued together by using replacements of the same type as the remaining timber. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric that was originally used and is among the most minimally invasive methods of treating timber-to-timber rot.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to the traditional process of sanding or staining. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is especially useful for treating pulley cords and sash which can stop breakage.

It is essential that any old ironmongery such as sash stays and latches be kept and restored instead of replaced. These items are difficult to replace without damaging the the original design. It is also advised that fittings made of aluminum like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, are avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.