Then You've Found Your Sash Windows Cambridge ... Now What?

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

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

Box sash windows were historically operated with chains or cotton cords, as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to solve this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Unlike PVC-u windows that are manufactured according to the modular imperial size the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original sizes. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows in order to meet current energy requirements and to comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also provides windows with a superior appearance than the upvc door repairs alternatives.

Sliding sash window frames were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However this changed as production became more affordable and artisans could make larger frames using larger glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden Windows Cambridge style in British homes. Since they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass However, in the 17th century the sash windows began to become more attractive. They were initially made of colored glazing bars or mullions. They were costly at the beginning but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became a common feature in many homes of the period.

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

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double glazing repairs cambridge-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and allowed for better ventilation to a building.

Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead which separates the sashes. This will prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are also essential to the operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets were made available. They were made of plate glass, set within rebated timber frames and secured with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This type of Glass Repair Cambridge gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes resulted in the need for a larger variety of ironmongery including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners that secured the sashes into place. These were often decorated in designs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty may cause draughts too. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber products.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the notion that old windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs can be costly and cause considerable disruption to the home. To avoid this homeowners often 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 a single day, saving time and eliminating the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving double glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than a 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 more secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery like mortice bolts, sash chain, and sash lock can be used. They can be fitted in a way so that the window can be open for ventilation and cleaning. They are generally minimal in appearance, as they are designed to match the sash window replacement cambridge. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches that are required to be replaced with more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the possibility of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames are typically made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars remain intact and in good condition, they should be kept. Where it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced with wood that is in line with. PVC-u companies often provide a one-stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on a complete home in a single day without the need to involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light into the buildings. In the 18th century, they were modified so that more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also made. The result was a lighter appearance and windows that were more elegant.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and leaded. There were also a variety of 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, wooden windows need to be maintained. Lack of regular attention may result in:

Sashes that do not move smoothly.

holes in the frame that allow water, which can cause damage and decay.

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

In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows gained popularity because they were strong slim and inexpensive, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are as efficient thermally as double-glazed PVC-u windows and can be more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows.

The window seal replacement near me replacement industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their traditional windows are rotten, draughty and beyond economic repair. Many old timber windows can be fixed and used for a long time with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly can lead to sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of the sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to become misaligned and not closing properly. The sash may also become stuck in an open position, which allows the water and drafts to enter the property.

Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to timber windows. This can be avoided by thorough painting, regular repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped away to reveal soft, rotting wood. The rotten timber sections should be carefully cut out and the affected part should be scarfed or glued together by using replacements of the same kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric left, and is among the least invasive ways of treating timber-to-timber decay.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to traditional staining and sanding. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to prevent breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any historical ironmongery, like sash latches and stays. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also advised that fittings made of aluminum, such as sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.