15 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Be Ignoring Sash Windows Cambridge

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in cambridge replacement windows

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

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

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes, which are modular, are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration to meet the current energy standards while ensuring compliance with conservation areas regulations. It also provides windows with a superior appearance than upvc window renovation alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became more affordable and artisans could create larger frames using larger glass. In the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant wooden design in most British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the need for curtains.

The early windows were made of glass that was plain, but by the 17th Century the sash windows began to become more attractive. They were initially made of colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were costly at the beginning but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were commonplace in many historic homes.

In the 19th century it was possible to create large, strong glass that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to be increased even further and this in turn allowed for a wider view out of the window repairs cambridge. This was an important innovation.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the Double glazing near me-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously and also improved the ventilation of buildings.

Oak was used in older examples and for more prestigious buildings. It is important to maintain the parting bead which separates the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good working order as they aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as clearer and larger sheets were made available. Glass plates were set in rebated timber frames, pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to the frame's sides to ensure watertightness. This type of glazing gradually superseded leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to increased demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges as well as various fasteners used to fix the sashes. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and designs that were engraved to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. Without this maintenance they can get draughty. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of putty and paint. This can be corrected using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the belief that old windows are beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs are costly and can cause substantial disruption to the home. To avoid this, many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the large "one stop shop" installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, thereby saving time and avoiding the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than the traditional sash window. double glazing repairs near me-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions or section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their style. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain and sash locks can be put in place. These can be installed in a way so that the window can be open for ventilation and cleaning. These windows are typically discrete since they are made to complement sash windows. They can be used alongside traditional sash-window catches that should be replaced with more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the risk of them being hammered out.

Sash-window frames were typically made from slow-growing deal or, in more elegant homes, from oak. If the glazing bars remain intact and are not damaged, they should be left. If possible, the timber cills should be replaced with wood that matches. PVC-U companies usually provide a one-stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows on an entire home in a single 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 significant amount of light to flood into structures. By the end of the 18th century they were modified to let even more light into rooms, and larger glazing panes began to be manufactured. The result was a lighter look and windows that were more elegant.

Sash windows were introduced, which required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of wood and lead. There were also a variety of kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. The ironmongery pieces need to be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their exquisite design.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good order. A lack of attention to them regularly could result in:

Sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

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

break down of putty allowing water to penetrate, which could cause decay in the frame and cill.

Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s & I930s due to their strength and slim, and also because they were cheap and complemented the trend for healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash windows are just as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The industry of replacement windows has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their old windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. Many older timber windows can be repaired and used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly could result in sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of 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 may also become stuck in its open position, which allows water and draughts to enter the property.

The damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented by careful painting, regular repairs and elimination of the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. The sections that are rotting should be carefully cut out and the affected part should be scarfed together or glued together by using replacements of the same type as the remaining timber. This method of repair maximises the amount of fabric retained and is one of the least invasive ways of treating decay of timber to timber.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to traditional sanding and staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to stop breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any historic ironmongery such as sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium casement windows cambridge fittings like sashlifts and chainstays, are avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.