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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 the way they look. 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.

Traditionally, windows made of box sash used chains or cotton cords and lead weights to operate. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to eliminate this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes and are modular, can be reconstructed to original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows to comply with current energy standards and conform to conservation area regulations. It also gives a window with a far superior appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash window frames were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became cheaper and artisans could make larger frames using greater glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light in rooms without the need for curtains.

The first windows were made of glass that was plain However, in the 17th century sash windows started to be more decorative. They started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. These were very expensive at the time but as glass production improved and less expensive, they were a common feature in many of the period homes.

In the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, sturdy glass that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to be increased even further and this in turn meant more of a view from the window. This was an important innovation.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a significant improvement that came about towards the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and also improved the ventilation of the building.

The most commonly used kind of sash is made from slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more prestigious buildings and in some earlier examples. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes. It is essential that it is maintained in order to avoid 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

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets were made available. They were made of plate glass, set in timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced led lights.

The introduction of sashes created an need for a wider range of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges, knobs and shutters as well as a range of fasteners to hold the sashes into the right place. These were usually decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be very energy-efficient with regular maintenance. Without this maintenance they can get draughty. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber products.

The market for replacement windows rests on the belief that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, whereas they can be maintained with just a little care. These repairs can be expensive and cause a lot of disruption in the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows using PVC-u from a huge 'one-stop shop' installation company. They can take down and replace all the windows in an entire house in just one day, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the entire process much more efficient. They can also be supplied with 'energy saving' double-glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than those offered by traditional sash windows. These double glazing repairs near me-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions and sections of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their aesthetics. Ironmongery, such as sash chain, mortice bolts, and sash lock can be put in place. They can be positioned in a manner that the window is able to be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These windows are typically unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catch. They should be replaced by more robust models, such as those with double glazed door repairs screws, or sprung levers to decrease the risk of being hit with hammers.

Sash-window frames were constructed from slow grown deal or, in more luxurious homes made of oak. If the glazing bars are still intact and are not damaged, they should be left. Where feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced by wood that is in line with. PVC-u companies often provide a one-stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on an entire home in one day, without the need to engage other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

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

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, while later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their fine design.

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

sashes that no longer slide easily.

holes in the frame that admit water causing damage and decay.

The putty can be soaked by water and cause decay to the frame or the cill.

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their strength slim and inexpensive and were in line with the trend for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows are as thermally efficient as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and can be more attractive than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows.

The replacement window industry has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their traditional windows are old, dirty, and beyond economic repair. Many old windows made of timber can be fixed and used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your sash window, it can lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movement within the frame, which can cause the sash to not close properly. The sash could also get stuck in its open position, allowing water and draughts into the building.

Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be avoided by thorough painting, regular repairs and elimination of the source of dampness. Wet rot can be identified due to the wavy appearance of the paint that can be removed to reveal soft, rotting wood. Any rotten timber sections should be cut off and the affected part carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made of the same kind of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount original fabric and is one of most non-invasive methods to treat timber-to-timber rot.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to the traditional method of staining and sanding. The product is brushed on to the surface of the wood to stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to prevent breakage.

It is important that any old ironmongery like sash stays and latches are retained and restored instead of replaced. They can be extremely difficult to replace without harming the the original design. It is also recommended that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.