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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture that can cause the timber to swell.

Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilized chains or cotton cords and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash window springs are hidden to eliminate this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed according to imperial sizes that are modular the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original size. This lets the restoration be in line with modern energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation areas regulations. It also offers windows that have a superior appearance than the upvc window repairs near me alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used in large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became less expensive and craftsmen could create larger frames using larger glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden design in British homes. Because they were simple to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.

The early windows were made of plain glass However, in the 17th century the sash windows began to become more ornamental. They began with colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were costly initially, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were a common feature in many historic homes.

By the 19th century it was possible to make large, strong glass that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to be increased even more, which in turn allowed for a wider view from the window. This was an important innovation.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of the I920s and beginning of I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened at the same time and gave improved ventilation to buildings.

The most popular kind of sash is made from slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was also used in more expensive buildings as well as in earlier examples. It is important to maintain the separation bead that divides 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 lock repairs.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets became available. Plate glass was set into rebated timber frames, pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to the frame's two sides to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

The introduction of sashes led to an need for a larger variety of ironmongery with the 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 used to keep the sashes to their place. These were usually decorated with designs, inscriptions, and engravings to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. Without this maintenance they can get drafty. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. This can be remedied by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the perception that older windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a bit of attention. Repairs can be costly and cause lots of disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows using PVC-u from a large "one-stop shop" installation company. They can replace all windows in a home in a single day, saving time and avoiding the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be fitted with 'energy saving' double-glazing, which can achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions and sections of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery, such as mortice bolts, sash chain and sash locks can be used. They can be positioned in a manner that the window can still be opened to allow ventilation and 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 catch. These should be replaced with more robust versions, such as ones that have double screws, or sprung levers in order to reduce the chance of being hit with hammers.

Sash-window frames are traditionally constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars remain in good condition, they should be retained. If it is possible, the timber cills should be replaced by wood that matches. PVC-U companies usually 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 different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light into buildings. By the end of the 18th century, they were modified to let even more light into rooms and bigger glazing panes started to be produced. The result was a lighter look and windows with more elegance.

Sash windows were introduced and required a 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. Ironmongery elements must be kept and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

To keep them in good shape, timber windows must be maintained. A lack of regular attention can result in:

Sashes that do not move smoothly.

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

break down of the putty and allow water penetration that could lead to decay of the frame and cill.

Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s & I930s because they were sturdy and slim, cost-effective and complemented the trend for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are just as thermally efficient as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The window replacement windows cambridge industry did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten drafty, noisy and beyond repair. Many old windows made of timber are repairable and can be used for many more years with minor upvc door repairs.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your window supplier cambridge's sash, it could result in the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It could also cause paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of the sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to become misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. The sash can also be stuck in an open position, which allows water and draughts to enter the property.

Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided with regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten timber sections must be removed and the affected area carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same type of wood as those remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric left, and is among the least invasive methods of treating decay of timber to timber.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to traditional staining or sanding. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is especially beneficial for treating pulley cords and sash, where it can prevent breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any old ironmongery, like sash latches and stays. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.