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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 are difficult to open and close. This is usually due to moisture, which can cause the wood to expand.

double glazing cambridge  were previously operated by chains or cotton cords as well as lead weights. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to overcome this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Unlike PVC-u windows that are manufactured according to the modular imperial size, timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration to be in line with modern energy requirements while complying with conservation area regulations. It also provides windows with a more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used for large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became more affordable and artisans could produce larger frames with greater glass. In the late 18th century sash windows were the dominant design of wood in the majority of British properties. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the need for curtains.

The early windows were made of plain glass, but in the 17th century, sash windows began to be more decorative. They started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they became a part of numerous period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to manufacture large, sturdy glass that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame size to increase further, which gave a better view out of the window. This was a significant innovation.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that was made towards the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and allowed for better ventilation to a building.

Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. A split bead divides the two sashes. It is important that this is maintained in order to avoid rattles and drafts. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good working order as they assist in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger sheets of glass became available, sash window began replacing hinged casements. They were coated with plate glass that was set within rebated timber frames and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes created an need for a wider range of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, knobs and shutters, and a range of fasteners to hold the sashes to their place. These were often decorated in motifs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be extremely energy-efficient with regular maintenance. But, if you don't maintain them, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can also cause draughts. This can be fixed by using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The replacement window industry relies on the assumption that old windows are damaged and beyond repair, while they are able to be maintained with just a little care. Repairs can be expensive and cause lots of disruption to the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows using PVC-u from a "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can replace all windows in a home in one day, thereby saving time and avoiding the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. They are also available with 'energy saving' double-glazing, which can achieve more energy efficient ratings than those offered by traditional windows with sash. However double-glazed windows cannot replicate the section and proportions of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising on their aesthetics. A variety of ironmongery types can be fitted, including sash chains, mortice bolts, and sash locks. They can be positioned in a way so that the window is able to be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These are typically not noticeable, since they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used alongside traditional sash window catches, which are required to be replaced with more robust models (such ones with double screws) or spring levers to decrease the risk of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames are typically made from oak or slow-grown deal. If glazing bars have survived, they should be preserved, and, if feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced by identical wood. Many PVC-u firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can take down and replace windows on a complete home in a single day, without involving other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light to flood into buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were modified to let more light into rooms, and larger glass panes began to be manufactured. The result was a much lighter appearance and windows that had a higher degree of elegance than before.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, later Victorian ones were made from brass or a mixture of wood and lead, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be maintained and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

To keep them in good shape, timber windows must be maintained. Inattention to maintenance can result in:

Sashes that do not slide smoothly.

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

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

Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s & I930s due to their strength and slim, cost-effective and matched the trend of healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash windows are just as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The industry of replacement windows has done a lot to convince homeowners that their windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. The truth is that a lot of old timber windows are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be serviceable for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can lead to sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movement within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or fixed in an open position, which can let water and draughts enter the structure.

Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided by regular maintenance as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, decaying wood. The sections of timber that are rotten must be removed with care and the affected part should be scarfed or glued together by using replacements of the same nature as the rest of the timber. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric retained and is among the least invasive methods for treating timber-to-timber decay.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is an alternative to the traditional method of sanding and staining. This is brushed onto the surface of the timber to stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which can help prevent breakage.

It is crucial to restore and not replace any old ironmongery, like stay latches and sash latches. They can be extremely difficult to replace without harming the quality of the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings such as chain stays and sash lifts should be avoided if possible as they can cause corrosion and damage to timber frames and sashes.