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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in upvc locksmith cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of how they appear. Sash windows can become stuck and are difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture which can cause the wood to swell.

Box sash windows were traditionally operated with chains, cotton cords and weights made of lead. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to overcome this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed according to the modular imperial size the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows in order to comply with current energy standards and conform to conservation area regulations. It also offers windows with a superior appearance than the emergency upvc door Repairs alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally intended for large structures or public buildings. However, this changed when production became more affordable and artisans could create larger frames using larger glass. By the late 18th century Sash windows were the most popular design of wood in the majority of British homes. Because they were simple to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass but by the 17th century, sash windows started to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were costly at the beginning but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were commonplace in many historic homes.

In the 19th century, it became possible to create large, strong glasses that didn't need supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be made larger, which in turn gave a better view. This was a significant advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that was made towards the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.

The most commonly used type of sash is made from slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was used in the more luxurious buildings and in some earlier examples. It is essential to keep the parting bead which is used to separate the sashes. This will stop draughts and rattles. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers are essential to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger glass sheets were made available, sash windows began to replace hinged casements. Plate glass was set into frames of timber that were rebated, then secured with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on the frame's sides for watertightness. This form of glazing gradually superseded the leaded light bulbs.

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

Sash windows are energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. Without this maintenance they can get drafty. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be remedied by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The market for replacement windows rests on the assumption that older windows are old and beyond repair, while they are able to be maintained with just a little care. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause substantial disruption to the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows with PVC-u from a huge "one-stop shop" installation company. They can take down and replace all windows in a home in a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the whole process much quicker. They can also be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than traditional windows with sash. However, these double-glazed units cannot replicate the section and proportions of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their aesthetics. There are many types of ironmongery that can be fitted, including sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. They can be fitted in a way that the window remains open to allow ventilation or cleaning. These products are usually not noticeable, since they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers that are required to be replaced with more robust models (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the risk of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow-growing deal or, in more luxurious homes they were made from oak. If the glazing bars are in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. If it is possible, the timber cills should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows throughout a home in a single day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a huge amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. By the end of the 18th century, they were modified to let more light into rooms, and bigger glazing panes started to be made. The result was a much more streamlined appearance, and windows with a greater degree of elegance than before.

Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were made out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of leaded and wood. There were also various kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. These ironmongery pieces should be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their exquisite design.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good order. Lack of regular attention may lead to:

Sashes that do not slide effortlessly.

holes in the frame that admit water that can cause decay and damage.

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

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows increased in popularity because they were strong slim and inexpensive and were in line with the trend for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are as efficient in thermal efficiency as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and can be more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The window 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 are repairable and can be used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your sash window, it could result in the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause paint and putty deteriorate. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close correctly. The sash could also get stuck in an open position, which allows water and draughts into the building.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by moisture infiltration. This can be avoided with regular maintenance as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy look of the paint, which can be stripped away to reveal rotting, soft timber. The sections that are rotting must be removed with care and the affected part should be scarfed or glued together by using replacements of the same kind as the timber that remains. This repair method increases the amount original fabric and is among the most non-invasive methods to treat the rot that occurs between timber and timber.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to the traditional sanding or staining. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulley cords and sash, which can help prevent breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, like sash latches and stays. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.