This Is The History Of Sash Windows Cambridge

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows may get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is often due moisture that can cause the timber to expand.

Traditionally, window boxes utilized chains or cotton cord and lead weights to operate. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes and are modular, can be reconstructed to their original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and to comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also provides windows that have a superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were initially only found in large buildings or public buildings, however this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. By the late 18th century sash windows were the dominant wooden style in a majority of British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the need for curtains.

Early windows were simple glass, but in the 17th century sash windows started to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and cheaper they were a common feature in numerous period houses.

In the 19th century, it became possible to produce large, strong glasses that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to be enlarged further and this in turn gave a better view from the window. This was a significant advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and 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.

Oak was used for older examples and more prestigious buildings. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes, and it is important that this is maintained in order to avoid rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers also are crucial to the operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets were made available. Glass plates were set in frames of timber that were rebated, then which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was then sprayed onto the frame's two sides for watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

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

With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they can become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of paint and putty. This can be remedied by using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The market for replacement windows rests on the perception that old windows are damaged and beyond economical repair, but they can be maintained with a little attention. Repairs can be costly and cause a lot of disruption in the home. To prevent this homeowners often choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the many "one stop shop" installation companies. They can replace and remove all windows in a house in a single day, eliminating the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much quicker. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than the traditional windows made of sash. However double-glazed windows cannot duplicate the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery like sash chain, mortice bolts, and sash lock can be used. These can be installed so that the window is still able to be opened for ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically discrete since they are made to complement sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers and should be replaced with more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or spring levers to decrease the risk of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames are traditionally made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are intact, they should be retained. If possible, the timber cills should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on an entire home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light to flood into buildings. By the end 18th century, they had been modified so that more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also made. The result was a much lighter appearance, and windows with a higher degree of elegance than before.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, while later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood, and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be retained and cleaned down to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

To keep them in good condition, timber windows need to be maintained. A lack of regular attention could lead to:

Sashes that don't slide smoothly.

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

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

Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s and I930s due to their strength and slim, and also because they were cheap and matched the trend of healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as efficient thermally as double-glazed PVC-u windows and may be more appealing than the modern sleek design of casement windows.

The window replacement industry did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed drafty, noisy and beyond repair. Many old timber windows can be repaired and used for a long time with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it could lead to the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It could also cause the paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movements within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close properly. The sash may also become stuck in the open position, allowing the water and drafts to enter the building.

Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be avoided with regular repairs, thorough painting and removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, decaying wood. Any timber that is rotting should be cut off and the affected area should be carefully wrapped cambridge window repair or pieced back using replacements made from the same type of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount original fabric and is one of least invasive ways to treat the rot that occurs between timber and timber.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to traditional staining and sanding. This is brushed onto the surface of the timber to stabilise and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful to treat pulley cords and sash, where it can prevent breakage.

It is important that any old ironmongery such as sash stays and latches are retained and rehabilitated instead of being replacing them. They can be extremely difficult to replace without harming the the original design. It is also advised that fittings made of aluminum like sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.