5 Killer Quora Answers On Sash Windows Cambridge

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of how they look. However, sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture, which can cause the timber to swell.

Box sash windows were historically operated by chains or cotton cords, as well as lead weights. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes that are modular, are able to be restored to original dimensions. This lets the restoration meet modern day energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation area regulations. It also offers a window with a far superior appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, though this changed as production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to create larger frames using more glass. In the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant wooden style in a majority of British properties. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the need for curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass However, by the 17th Century the sash windows began to become more ornamental. They started with coloured glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were expensive initially, but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were a common feature in many period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to produce large, sturdy glasses that didn't need supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be made bigger, which in turn gave an improved view. This was a significant advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s.

The most commonly used kind of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was also used in more luxurious buildings and in some earlier examples. It is important to maintain the parting bead which separates the sashes. This will prevent rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are crucial for the proper operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets became available. They were made of plate glass, set within rebated timber frames and then pinned with glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This kind of glazing gradually superseded led lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to an increase in demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights and stoppers for sashes, shutter hinges and handles, and various fasteners used to fix the sashes. These were usually decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engravings to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty may cause draughts. This can be remedied by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.

The replacement window industry relies heavily on the belief that old windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs are costly and can cause considerable disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a large "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can replace all windows in a home in a single day, saving time and avoiding the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. They are also available with  energy-saving double-glazing to achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than traditional sash windows. These double-glazed windows aren't able to replicate the proportions or section of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their appearance. There are many types of ironmongery that can be installed including sash chains mortice bolts, and sash locks. These can be put in place so that the window is still capable of being opened to allow ventilation or cleaning. They are generally minimal in appearance, as they are designed to fit the sash window.  window installation cambridge www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk  can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. These should be replaced by more robust models, such as those with double screws, or sprung levers to decrease the possibility of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames were constructed from slow grown deal or, in the more elegant homes made of oak. If the glazing bars remain in good condition and in good condition, they should be kept. Where feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced with wood that matches. PVC-u companies often offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on a complete home in a single day without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a large amount of light to enter buildings. At the end of the 18th century they were modified to let more light into rooms, and larger glazing panes began to be made. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with a higher quality of design than before.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of leaded and wood. There were also a variety of types of knobs and shutter hinges. Ironmongery elements must be kept and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. Lack of regular attention may cause:

Sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

holes in the frame allow water that can cause decay and damage.

break down of putty allowing water penetration, which could lead to decay of the frame and cill.

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows gained popularity due to their durability, slim and cheap and were in line with the trend for healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as efficient thermally as double-glazed PVC-u windows and are more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows.

The industry of replacement windows was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten, drafty and beyond economical repair. However, many old windows made of timber are in good shape and with minor repairs could easily be serviceable for many years to be.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your window's sash, it could cause the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause paint and putty deteriorate. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to become misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or slammed into an open position and let water and draughts enter the property.

Damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented with thorough painting, periodic repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified due to the wavy appearance of the existing paint which can be removed to reveal soft, rotting wood. Any timber that is rotting must be removed and the affected part carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made of the same type of timber as the ones remaining. This repair method increases the amount original fabric and is among the least invasive ways to treat wood-to-timber rot.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to traditional staining and sanding. This is brushed onto the surface of the wood to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is especially useful to treat sash and pulley cords, which can help prevent breakage.

It is crucial to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery such as sash latches and stays. They can be extremely difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is also recommended that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, are avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.