How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in cambridge replacement windows

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

Traditionally, box sash windows utilised chains or cotton cords and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to overcome this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Unlike PVC-u windows that are constructed to modular imperial sizes, timber sash windows can be restored to their original sizes. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows in order to meet the current energy requirements and comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also provides an option that is superior to Upvc window and door repairs options.

Sliding sash windows were initially only found in large buildings or public buildings, however the production process became cheaper and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. By the late 18th century sash windows were the dominant wooden style in a majority of British properties. As they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass, but by the 17th century sash windows began to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and less expensive, they were a common feature in numerous period houses.

In the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, strong glass that didn't require support bars. This allowed for the frame to be enlarged and, in turn, gave an improved view. This was a significant innovation.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously and allowed for better ventilation to the building.

The most commonly used type of sash is constructed from slow grown deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more expensive buildings as well as in some earlier examples. It is crucial to maintain the separation bead that divides the sashes. This will stop rattles and draughts. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good working order as they help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets became available. They were glazed with plate glass set within rebated timber frames and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This type of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which resulted in a greater demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges, and various fasteners used to fix the sashes. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and engravings that identified the maker.

Sash windows can be very energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can cause draughts. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber products.

The replacement window industry relies on the belief that old windows are damaged and beyond economical repair, whereas they can be maintained with just a little care. However, repairs to these windows can be costly and cause significant disruption to your home. To prevent this, many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, thereby saving time and avoiding the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than the traditional sash window maintenance. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions or section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their aesthetics. There are many types of ironmongery that can be installed including sash chains mortice bolts and sash locks. These can be put in place to ensure that the window is still able to be opened to allow ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically not noticeable since they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers and should be replaced with more robust models (such ones with double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the possibility of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames were made from slow-growing deal or, in the more elegant homes made of oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept and where it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by matching wood. PVC-u companies typically provide a one-stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows across a home in a single day without the need to engage other tradespeople or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light into buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were altered to allow even more light into rooms and larger glazing panes began to be manufactured. The result was a more streamlined appearance, and windows that had a higher degree of elegance than before.

The introduction of sash windows also required the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, while later Victorian ones were made from brass or a combination of wood and lead, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design.

To keep them in good condition, timber windows need to be maintained. Inattention to maintenance routinely could lead to:

Sashes that do not move smoothly.

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

break down of putty allowing water to penetrate, which can lead to decay in the frame and cill.

In the I920s and the I930s steel aluminium casement windows cambridge windows gained popularity because they were strong, slim and cheap and were in line with the trend for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash windows are just as effective as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The replacement window industry has done a lot to persuade house owners that their traditional windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. The truth is that a lot of older windows made of timber are in good shape and with minor repairs can easily be maintained for years to be.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly can lead to broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to become misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or fixed in an open position and let water and draughts into the structure.

Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented by thorough painting, periodic repairs and the elimination of the source of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped away to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any timber that is rotting should be cut out and the affected area should be carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same type of wood as the ones remaining. This upvc door repair method increases the amount of fabric used in the first place and is among the most minimally invasive methods of treating timber-to-timber rot.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to traditional sanding and staining. It is brushed on the surface of the wood to help stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is especially beneficial for the treatment of pulley cords and sash, which can stop breakage.

It is essential that any ironmongery from the past such as sash stays and latches be kept and restored rather than replacing them. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also advised that fittings made of aluminum like sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.