Why We Why We Sash Windows Cambridge (And You Should Also!)

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of how they appear. Sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open and close. This is usually due to moisture which can cause the wood to expand.

Traditionally, box sash windows used chains or cotton cord 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 manufactured in imperial sizes that are modular, can be restored to their original size. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows in order to comply with current energy standards and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also provides an option that is superior to the uPVC options.

Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, but the production process became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. In the 18th century, Sash windows were the most popular wooden design in most British homes. As they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.

Early windows were simple glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows started to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were costly initially, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they became commonplace in many historic homes.

In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, strong glass that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame size to be increased even further, which allowed for a wider view out of the window. This was a very important advancement.

Another important 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 also improved the ventilation of a building.

Oak was used for older examples and for more prestigious buildings. It is important to maintain the parting bead which divides the sashes. This will stop draughts and rattles. It is also crucial that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good shape as they help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets became available. They were made of 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 replaced led lights.

The introduction of sashes created the need for a larger variety of ironmongery with the basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs as well as a range of fasteners that secured the sashes to their the right place. These were often decorated in patterns, inscriptions and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be very energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Putty and paint can also cause draughts.  upvc windows cambridge  can be corrected using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the notion that old windows are damaged beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a little attention. However, these repairs can be expensive and involve substantial disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a huge "one-stop shop" installation company. They can replace all windows in a home in one day, saving time and avoiding the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions and section of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their aesthetics. There are many types of ironmongery that can be installed with sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. They can be fitted in a way that the window is still able to be opened to allow ventilation or cleaning. These products are often not noticeable since they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be used alongside traditional sash-window catchers that should be replaced with more robust versions (such ones with double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the possibility of them being hammered out.

Sash-window frames are typically made from oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept and, if feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced by matching wood. Many PVC-U firms offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows throughout a home in one day, without involving other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a significant amount of light into the buildings. By the end of the 18th century, they were altered to allow more light into rooms and larger glass panes began to be manufactured. The result was a lighter look and windows with more elegance.

Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, whereas later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a combination of wood and lead, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be kept and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good order. Inattention to maintenance routinely could result in:

sashes that no longer slide easily.

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

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

In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity because they were strong slim and affordable, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as efficient in thermal efficiency as double-glazed PVC-u windows and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The replacement window industry has done a lot to persuade house owners that their traditional windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. The reality is that many older windows made of timber are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be repaired for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your window's sash, it could result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause the paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to move out of alignment and unable to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or slammed into an open position, which can let water and draughts enter the structure.

Damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture penetration. This can be avoided by thorough painting, periodic repairs, and removing the source of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy appearance of the existing paint which can be stripped to reveal soft, rotting wood. The rotten timber sections should be carefully removed and the affected part should be snared together or glued together using replacements of the same nature as the rest of the timber. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric retained and is among the least invasive methods of treating decay caused by timber.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is another alternative to traditional sanding and staining. It is brushed on the surface of the timber to help stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which help prevent the breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any old ironmongery, such as the sash latches and stays. It is difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings like chain stays and sash lifts is avoided if at all feasible as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.