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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can become stuck and be difficult to open and close. This is often due moisture, which can cause the timber to expand.

Traditionally, window boxes used chains, cotton cords or lead weights to operate. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes that are modular, are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This lets the restoration be in line with modern energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation area regulations. It also offers windows that have a superior appearance than upvc repairs near me alternatives.

Sliding sash window frames were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However the production became cheaper and artisans could make larger frames using larger glass. At the close 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 use of curtains.

The first windows were made of clear glass However, in the 17th century, sash windows began to become more attractive. They started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. These were very expensive at the time but as glass production improved and cheaper they became a part of numerous period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to manufacture large, sturdy glass that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame to be made larger which, in turn, provided the viewer a better view. This was a significant innovation.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that was made in 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 common type of sash is constructed from slow grown deal (pine) but oak was also used in more luxurious buildings and in some earlier examples. A split bead divides the two sashes. It is vital that it is well maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good condition as these assist in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger glass sheets became available, sash windows began replacing hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass placed within timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This type of glazing gradually superseded the leaded light bulbs.

Sashes were introduced, which resulted in an increase in demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers shutter hinges and handles and a variety of fasteners used to secure the sashes. These were often decorated in designs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. But, if you don't maintain them, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can also cause draughts. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber products.

The replacement window industry relies on the perception that older windows are old and beyond repair, whereas they can be easily maintained with just a little care. Repairs can be expensive and cause a lot of disruption in the home. To prevent this, many homeowners prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the largest 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace and remove all the windows in a house within a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much more efficient. They can also be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing, which can achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than those offered by traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of replicating the proportions or section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their style. Ironmongery, such as sash chain, mortice bolts and sash locks can be installed. They can be fitted in a way so that the window is able to be open for ventilation and cleaning. These windows are typically unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches that are required to be replaced with more robust models (such as those incorporating double glazed door repairs screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the chance of them being hammered out.

Sash-window frames are usually constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. When glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, 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 down and replace windows throughout a home in a single day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a large amount of light to flood into structures. At the end of the 18th century, they had been modified to allow more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also created. The result was a lighter appearance and windows that were more elegant.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and lead. There were also various kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. Ironmongery elements must be retained and cleaned down to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

To keep them in good shape, timber windows must be maintained. Inattention to maintenance can lead to:

Sashes that do not slide smoothly.

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

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

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows increased in popularity because they were strong slim and inexpensive, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash window are as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The industry of replacement windows has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their old windows are old, dirty, and beyond economic repair. Many old windows made of timber can be repaired and utilized for a longer period with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can result in sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to be misaligned and not closing properly. The sash could also get stuck in the open position, which allows water and draughts to enter the building.

Damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented with thorough painting, regular repairs and elimination of the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, decaying wood. Any rotten timber sections must be removed and the affected part carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made from the same type of wood as the ones that remain. 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 onto the surface of the timber to stabilise and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which can help prevent the breakage.

It is essential that any historic ironmongery such as sash stay and latches are retained and restored instead of replacing them. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings such as chain stays and sash lifts should be avoided if feasible as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.