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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of the way they look. Sash windows can become stuck and become difficult to open and close. This is usually due to moisture which can cause the timber to expand. Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilized chains or cotton cords and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to overcome this problem. 1. Aesthetics Unlike PVC-u windows that are manufactured according to imperial sizes that are modular, timber sash windows can be restored to their original sizes. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows in order to meet current energy requirements and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also provides a window that is far superior to uPVC options. Sliding windows with sash were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However, this changed when production became more affordable and artisans could create larger frames using greater glass. By the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant wooden style in a majority of British properties. Since they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains. The first windows were made of clear glass, but in the 17th century, sash windows began to become more attractive. They were initially made of colored glazing bars or mullions. They were costly at the beginning but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were commonplace in many period houses. In 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 enlarged further, which allowed for a wider view out of the window. This was a significant advancement. Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of the I920s and beginning of I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s. The most commonly used type of sash is constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was also used in more prestigious buildings and in some earlier examples. It is important to maintain the parting bead that divides the sashes. This will prevent draughts and rattles. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good shape as they assist in operating the window. 2. Energy efficiency Sash windows replaced hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets were made available. They were glazed with plate glass set within rebated timber frames and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glazing gradually superseded leaded lights. The introduction of sashes created an need for a wider range 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 used to keep the sashes into place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or designs that were engraved to identify the maker. With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. Without this maintenance they can get draughty. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of paint and putty. This can be corrected making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary. The industry of replacement windows is based on the assumption that old windows are damaged and beyond economical repair, but they can be maintained with a bit of care. sash window repair cambridge repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk can be expensive and cause a lot of disruption in the home. Many homeowners choose 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 a house in just one day, eliminating the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much quicker. They can also be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to achieve greater energy efficiency than those offered by traditional sash windows. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions and sections of the sashes made of timber from the past. 3. Security Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their appearance. Many types of ironmongery can be installed, including sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. They can be positioned in such a way that the window can still be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually unobtrusive, as they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches and should be replaced with more robust models (such ones with double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the chance of them being opened by hammering. Sash-window frames are usually constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. When glazing bars have survived they should be kept, and where possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. PVC-U companies usually provide a one-stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on a complete home in one day, without the need to involve 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 significant amount of light to flood into structures. At the end of the 18th century, they were adapted so that even more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also produced. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with more elegance. The introduction of sash windows also necessitated an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of leaded and wood. There were also various types of knobs and shutter hinges. The ironmongery components should be kept and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated. To ensure they remain in good condition, timber windows need to be maintained. A lack of regular attention can lead to: Sashes that no longer slide smoothly. Holes in the frame that allow water to enter and cause damage and decay. Water can get into the putty and cause decay to the frame or cause cill. In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows gained popularity because they were strong, slim and cheap and were in line with the trend for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as efficient thermally 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 did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed drafty, noisy and beyond repair. However, many older windows made of wood are in good shape and with minor repairs can easily be maintained for years to come. 5. Maintenance A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your window's sash, it could result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to become damaged. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movements within the frame, causing the sash to not close properly. The sash could also get stuck in an open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the building. The damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture infiltration. This can be prevented with careful painting, regular repairs, and removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable due to the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped to reveal soft, rotting wood. Any timber that is rotting should be cut off and the affected part carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made of the same type of wood as the ones that remain. This repair method increases the amount of fabric used in the first place and is among the most minimally invasive methods of treating the rot that occurs between timber and timber. A resin-based wood condenser is an alternative to the traditional process of sanding or staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly useful for the treatment of sash and pulley cords, which can help prevent breakage. It is essential to preserve and not replace any old ironmongery, like stay latches and sash latches. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided whenever possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration to timber frames and sashes.