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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 can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is usually due moisture that can cause the wood to expand.

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

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes, which are modular, can be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows in order to meet the current energy requirements and to comply with conservation area regulations. It also provides windows that have a superior appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, however the production process was less expensive and craftsmen were able to create larger frames using more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden style in British homes. Because they were simple to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.

The first windows were made of clear glass However, by the 17th Century, sash windows began to be more decorative. They were initially made of colored glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive initially, but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became an integral feature in many period houses.

In the 19th century, it became possible to create large, sturdy glasses that didn't need supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be made bigger, which in turn gave the viewer a better view. This was an important improvement.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of 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 buildings.

The most popular type of sash is constructed of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was used in the more expensive buildings as well as in some earlier examples. It is essential to keep the separation bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are also vital to the functioning of the window seal repairs near me.

2. Energy efficiency

As larger and clearer sheets of glass were made available, sash windows started replacing hinged casements. 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 ensure they were watertight. This kind of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to a greater demand for ironmongery. The most common fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights and stoppers for sashes shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges and a variety of fasteners used to secure the sashes. These were often decorated in patterns, inscriptions and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. Without this maintenance they can get draughty. Putty and paint can also cause draughts. This issue can be fixed with wood-to-timber products.

The market for replacement windows rests on the belief that older windows are old and beyond economical repair, whereas they can be maintained with a little attention. Repairs can be expensive and cause a lot of disruption in the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a huge 'one-stop shop' installation company. These can remove and replace all the windows in a house within a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much faster. They are also available with energy-saving double-glazing to achieve greater energy efficiency than are possible with traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed units are not able to replicate the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their aesthetics. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain, and sash lock can be installed. These can be installed so that the window is still open for ventilation or for cleaning. They are usually unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window hinges leeds catch. These are best replaced with more robust versions like ones that have double glazing repairs near me screws, or sprung levers, to minimize the chance of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames were constructed from slow-growing deal or, in more elegant homes they were made from oak. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept and where it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. PVC-U companies usually offer a one stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows across a house in a day without the need to involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a substantial amount of light to flood into the buildings. By the end of the 18th century, they were adapted to allow even more light into rooms, and bigger glazing panes started to be manufactured. The result was a lighter appearance and windows that were more elegant.

Sash windows were introduced and required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, whereas later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a mixture of lead and wood, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their exquisite design.

To ensure they remain in good condition, wooden windows must be maintained. Inattention to maintenance could lead to:

Sashes that don't slide easily.

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

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

In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows gained popularity due to their durability slim and inexpensive and were in line with the trend for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash window are as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The replacement storefront window glass repair industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. However, many old windows made of wood are in good shape and with minor repairs can easily be repaired for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it could lead to the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of the sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to become misaligned and not closing properly. The sash could also get stuck in the open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the building.

Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented by careful painting, regular repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified by the wavy look of the paint that can be stripped to reveal rotting, soft timber. The sections of timber that are rotten should be carefully removed and the affected area should be scarfed or pieced together with replacements of the exact kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair increases the amount of original fabric retained and is among the least invasive methods for treating decay of timber to timber.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to traditional staining and sanding. It is brushed on the surface of the timber to stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful to treat pulley cords and sash, where it can prevent breakage.

It is crucial that any ironmongery from the past such as sash stays and latches are retained and restored rather than replaced. These items are difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings such as sash lifts and chain stays should be avoided if possible since they can cause corrosion and damage to frames and sashes made from timber.