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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is often due moisture that can cause the timber to expand. Box sash windows were traditionally operated with chains or cotton cords, as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to solve this problem. 1. Aesthetics Contrary to PVC-u windows which are made according to the modular imperial size the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original sizes. This lets the restoration meet the current energy standards while still complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also gives windows with a superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives. Sliding windows with sash were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However the production became cheaper and artisans could create larger frames using more glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light into rooms without the use of curtains. The first windows were made of plain glass, but in the 17th century, sash windows started to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive initially, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became commonplace in many period houses. In the 19th century it was possible to create large, strong glass that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame size to increase more, which in turn allowed for a wider view from the window. 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 the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash is another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. The most commonly used type of sash is constructed of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more luxurious buildings and in some earlier examples. It is crucial to maintain the separation bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will prevent rattles and draughts. It is also crucial that sash pulleys and idler wheels are in good working order as they help to operate the window. 2. Energy efficiency As clearer and larger glass sheets became available, sash window started replacing hinged casements. Plate glass was set into rebated timber frames, which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was applied to the frame's sides to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs. The introduction of sashes resulted in a need for a much greater variety of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners that secured the sashes to their place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns that identified the maker. Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. If they are not maintained they could become drafty. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. This can be corrected using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products. The replacement window industry relies on the perception that older windows are old and beyond economical repair, while they are able to be maintained with a bit of care. Repairs can be costly and cause lots of disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a huge “one-stop shop” company for installation. They can take down and replace all windows in an entire house within a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much more efficient. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving' double glazing to achieve higher energy ratings than the traditional windows made of 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. There are many types of ironmongery that can be fitted, including sash chains, mortice bolts, and sash locks. They can be fitted so that the window remains open to allow ventilation or for cleaning. wood casement windows cambridge Repair My Windows And Doors are usually discrete since they are made to complement sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catches. These should be replaced with more robust models like those that incorporate double screws or spring levers, to minimize the chance of being hammered. Sash-window frames are traditionally made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars remain in good condition and in good condition, they should be kept. If it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced by wood that matches. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on a complete home in a single day without the need to engage other tradespeople or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers. 4. Ventilation When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light into buildings. At the end of the 18th century they were adapted to allow even more light into rooms, and larger glass panes began to be manufactured. The result was a much lighter appearance and windows that had a higher quality of design than before. Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new range ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, later Victorian ones were made from brass or a combination of wood and lead, and there were various types 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 must be maintained. Inattention to maintenance can lead to: Sashes that do not move effortlessly. holes in the frame allow water that can cause decay and damage. The putty can be soaked by water and cause decay to the frame or cill. Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s and I930s due to their strength and slim, cost-effective and complemented the trend for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are as efficient in thermal efficiency as double-glazed PVC-u windows and can be more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows. The window replacement industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. The reality is that many old timber windows are in good condition and with minor repairs can easily be repaired for many years to be. 5. Maintenance The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your window's sash, it could lead to the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to move out of alignment and in a position that it is not able to close properly. The sash may also become stuck in an open position, which allows the water and drafts to enter the building. Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided by regular maintenance by thorough painting and eliminating the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. The rotten timber sections should be carefully removed and the affected part should be scarfed or glued together with replacements of the exact type as the remaining timber. This method of repair maximizes the amount original fabric and is one of least invasive ways to treat wood-to-timber rot. A resin-based wood condenser is an alternative to traditional staining or sanding. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to stop breakage. It is important to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery, like stay latches and sash latches. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings such as chain stays and sash lifts should be avoided if possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration to frames and sashes made from timber.