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 become difficult to open or shut. This is usually due moisture that can cause the wood to expand.

Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilised chains or cotton cord and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to address this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed according to the modular imperial size the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original size. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows to comply with current energy standards and conform to conservation area regulations. It also offers an option that is superior to upvc door Repairs options.

Sliding sash window frames were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However, this changed when production became cheaper and artisans could create larger frames using larger glass. In the 18th century, sash windows were the dominant wooden design in most British properties. Sash windows were easy to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the use of curtains.

Early windows were plain glass, but by the 17th century sash windows began to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were costly initially, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were a common feature in many homes of the period.

In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, sturdy glasses that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be made bigger and, in turn, gave an improved view. This was a very important advancement.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and at the beginning of I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s.

Oak was used for older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is important to maintain the separation bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will prevent rattles and draughts. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good condition as these assist in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As larger and clearer sheets of glass were made available, sash windows began to replace hinged casements. Plate glass was set into rebated timber frames, secured with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on the frame's sides for watertightness. This form of glazing gradually superseded led lights.

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

With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. If they are not maintained they could become drafty. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber products.

The replacement window industry relies on the assumption that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, whereas they are able to be maintained with a little attention. Repairs can be costly and cause many disruptions in the home. To prevent this homeowners often choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the many "one stop shop" installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in a single day, saving time and eliminating the need for various tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than the 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 secured without compromising their aesthetics. A variety of ironmongery types can be fitted, including sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. These can be put in place so that the window remains capable of being opened for ventilation or for cleaning. They are generally unobtrusive, as they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used with traditional sash window catch. These are best replaced with more robust models like ones that have double screws, or sprung levers in order to reduce the possibility of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more prestigious houses they were made from oak. When glazing bars have survived they should be kept and, if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with matching wood. Many PVC-u firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on a complete home in one day, without involving any other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

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

Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new range ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and lead. There were also a variety of kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be retained and cleaned down so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.

To keep them in good condition, wooden windows need to be maintained. Lack of attention to them regularly could lead to:

Sashes that do not slide smoothly.

holes in the frame allow water causing damage and decay.

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

Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s & I930s because they were strong and slim, cost-effective and complemented the trend for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as thermally efficient as double-glazed PVC-u windows and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The replacement window industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were decayed, drafty and beyond economical repair. Many old windows made of timber can be repaired and used for a long time with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window doctor near me requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your sash window maintenance, it could lead to the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close properly. The sash may also become stuck in the open position, which allows water and draughts to enter the property.

Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided by thorough painting, regular repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. Any timber that is rotting should be cut off and the affected area should be carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made of the same type of wood as the ones remaining. This repair method increases the amount of fabric used in the first place and is one of least invasive ways to treat the rot that occurs between timber and timber.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to traditional staining or sanding. This is brushed onto the surface of the timber to help stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which help stop breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, such as sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without damaging the quality of the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided whenever possible as they can cause corrosion and deterioration to frames and sashes made from timber.

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