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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 how they appear. Sash windows can become stuck and are difficult to open and close. This is typically due to moisture that can cause the wood to swell. Traditionally, window boxes utilized chains or cotton cord and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to overcome this issue. 1. Aesthetics Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes and are modular, are able to be restored to original dimensions. This allows the restoration to meet the current energy standards while ensuring compliance with conservation areas regulations. It also gives windows with a superior appearance than uPVC alternatives. Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However the production became more affordable and artisans could produce larger frames with greater glass. By the late 18th century sash windows were the dominant wooden design in most British properties. Since they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without the need for curtains. The first windows were made of plain glass but by the 17th century, sash windows began to become more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were costly at first, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were a common feature in many historic homes. In the 19th century, it became possible to create large, strong glasses that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame size to be increased even further and this in turn gave a better view from the window. This was an important improvement. The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that occurred in the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened at the same time and also improved the ventilation of the building. The most commonly used type of sash is made from slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was used in the more expensive buildings as well as in some earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes and it is vital that it is well maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers are also essential for the proper operation of the window. 2. Energy efficiency As clearer and larger sheets of glass became available, sash window began to replace hinged casements. Plate glass was placed in frames made of timber, which were which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was then sprayed onto the frame's two sides to ensure watertightness. This type of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights. The introduction of sashes led to the need for a wider range of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners that secured the sashes into place. These were often decorated in patterns, inscriptions and engraved patterns to identify the maker. Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. Without this maintenance they could become noisy. Putty and paint can also cause draughts. This can be corrected making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary. The industry of replacement windows is based on the perception that older windows are old and beyond repair, but they can be maintained with a bit of care. These repairs can be expensive and cause a lot of disruption in the home. To prevent this homeowners often prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the large “one-stop shop” installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in a single day, saving time and eliminating the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows with sash. Double-glazed windows aren't able to replicate the proportions and sections of the sashes made of timber from the past. 3. Security It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their style. There are many types of ironmongery that are available with sash chains, mortice bolts, and locks for sash. They can be positioned in a manner that the window can still be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These products are often unobtrusive as they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. These should be replaced by more robust models, such as those that incorporate double screws or spring levers, to minimize the chance of being hammered. Sash-window frames were made from slow-growing deal or, in more elegant homes they were made from oak. If the glazing bars remain in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. If possible, the timber cills should be replaced with wood that is in line with. 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 co-ordinate various visits from different suppliers. 4. Ventilation When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light to flood into structures. In the 18th century, they were adapted so that even more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also created. The result was a lighter appearance and windows that were more elegant. The introduction of sash windows also necessitated the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, while later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. wooden windows cambridge www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk must be kept and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated. Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good condition. Lack of regular attention may cause: Sashes that do not slide easily. 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. In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows gained popularity because they were strong, slim and cheap, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient in thermal efficiency as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and are more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows. The industry of replacement windows has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their traditional windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. Many old timber windows are repairable and can be used for a long time with minor repairs. 5. Maintenance Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can result in broken sash cords, 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, causing the sash to not close correctly. The sash may also become stuck in the open position, which allows water and draughts into the building. Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided by regular repairs, thorough painting and removing the source of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped away to reveal soft, rotting timber. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut out and the affected area should be carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made of the same kind of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric left, and is one of the least invasive ways of treating timber-to-timber decay. The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is another alternative to the traditional method of sanding and staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the timber to stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is especially useful for the treatment of pulley cords and sash, where it can prevent breakage. It is important to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery such as the sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without damaging the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings like chain stays and sash lifts is avoided whenever possible as they can cause corrosion and deterioration to frames and sashes made of timber.