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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can become stuck and be difficult to open or shut. This is often due moisture which can cause the timber to swell. Traditionally, box sash windows utilised chains or cotton cord and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to address this problem. 1. Aesthetics Contrary to PVC-u windows which are manufactured to modular imperial sizes Timber sash windows can be restored to their original sizes. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows to meet the current energy requirements and conform to conservation area regulations. It also provides an option that is superior to the uPVC options. Sliding windows with sash were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became more affordable and artisans could create larger frames using more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden design in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the use of curtains. Early windows were plain glass, but in the 17th century sash windows were becoming more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and less expensive, they were a common feature in many period houses. In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, strong glasses that didn't need support bars. This allowed the frame size to increase further, which allowed for a wider view out of the window. This was an important innovation. The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made in the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. The most commonly used type of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was used in the more expensive buildings as well as in some earlier examples. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes. It is vital that it is well maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. It is also crucial that sash pulleys and idler wheels are in good shape as they assist in operating the window. 2. Energy efficiency As clearer and larger glass sheets became available, sash windows started replacing hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass set in timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glass gradually replaced leaded lights. The introduction of sashes resulted in 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 that secured the sashes to their place. These were usually decorated with designs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker. Sash windows can be extremely energy-efficient with regular maintenance. However, if they are not maintained, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. This can be fixed by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products. The market for replacement windows rests on the assumption that old windows are damaged and beyond economical repair, but they can be maintained with just a little care. 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 'one-stop shop' installation company. These can remove and replace all the windows in a home in just one day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much quicker. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double-glazing to attain more energy efficient ratings than a traditional sash window. Double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions or section of the sashes made of timber from the past. 3. Security Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their aesthetics. Ironmongery like mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be installed. They can be fitted in a way that the window remains able to be opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. They are usually not noticeable since they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers, which should be replaced with more robust models (such ones with double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the risk of them being hammered open. Sash-window frames are typically constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept, and where it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by matching wood. PVC-u companies often provide a one-stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on a complete house in a day without the need to involve other tradespeople or coordinate visits from different suppliers. 4. Ventilation When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a large amount of light to flood into buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were modified to allow more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also made. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with more elegance. The introduction of sash windows also required the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of wood and leaded. There were also different types of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design. To ensure they remain in good condition, wooden windows need to be maintained. Lack of attention to them regularly could lead to: sashes that no longer slide easily. Holes in the frame that allow water to get in and cause damage and decay. The putty can be soaked by water and cause decay to the frame or cause cill. Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s & I930s because they were sturdy and slim, and also because they were cheap 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 persuade house owners that their traditional windows are rotten, draughty and beyond economic repair. The reality is that many old timber windows are in good shape and with minor repairs can easily be maintained for years to be. 5. Maintenance A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your window's sash, it could lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close properly. window supplier cambridge may also become stuck in an open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the property. Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by moisture entry. This can be avoided by thorough painting, regular repairs, and removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, decaying wood. Any rotten timber sections must be removed and the affected part carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made of the same kind of timber as the ones that remain. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric left, and is one of the least invasive methods for treating timber-to-timber decay. A resin-based wood condenser is an alternative to the traditional process of sanding or staining. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is especially useful for the treatment of pulley cords and sash, which can stop breakage. It is crucial to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery, such as stay latches and sash latches. These items can be very difficult to replace without harming the quality of the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided if at all possible since they can cause corrosion and damage to frames and sashes made from timber.