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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture, which can cause the wood to expand. Box sash windows were previously operated with chains or cotton cords as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs 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 size. This lets the restoration meet modern day energy requirements while complying with conservation area regulations. It also offers a window with a far superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives. Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, but this changed as production became cheaper and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden style in British homes. Since they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without the need for curtains. The first windows were made of glass that was plain However, in the 17th century the sash windows began to be more decorative. They started with coloured glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were expensive at the time but as glass production improved and cost-effective, they were a common feature in many of the period homes. In the 19th century, it was possible to produce large, sturdy glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to be enlarged further, which meant more of a view out of the window. This was a significant advancement. The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another significant improvement that came about in the I920s and the beginning of the I930s. upvc windows cambridge allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously and allowed for better ventilation to buildings. The most popular kind of sash is made from slow grown deal (pine) but oak was also used in more prestigious buildings and in some earlier examples. It is important to maintain the separation bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will prevent rattles and draughts. It is also essential that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good shape as they aid in operating the window. 2. Energy efficiency As clearer and larger glass sheets became available, sash windows began to replace hinged casements. They were coated with plate glass that was set in timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This type of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights. The introduction of sashes resulted in an need for a wider range of ironmongery, with the 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 used to keep the sashes in the right place. They were often decorated with patterns, inscriptions and patterns engraved to identify the maker. Sash windows can be very energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. Without this maintenance, they can become noisy. Paint and putty can cause draughts. This can be fixed by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products. The market for replacement windows rests on the perception that old windows are damaged and beyond economical repair, while they are able to be maintained with just a little care. These repairs can be expensive and cause a lot of disruption in the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows with PVC-u from a large “one-stop shop” installation company. They can replace and remove all windows in an entire house within a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the whole process much faster. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving' double glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions and section of historic timber sashes. 3. Security Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be put in place. These can be put in place to ensure that the window is still open to allow ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically not noticeable since they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers and should be replaced with more robust versions (such ones with double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the chance of them being hammered out. Sash-window frames are traditionally made from oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept, and if it is it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. PVC-u companies typically provide a one-stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on an entire house in a day without the need to engage other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers. 4. Ventilation When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light to flood into structures. By the end of the 18th century they were modified to let even more light into rooms, and bigger glazing panes started to be manufactured. The result was a more light appearance and windows with more elegance. The introduction of sash windows also necessitated a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and leaded. There were also different types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their beautiful design. To ensure they remain in good condition, timber windows must be maintained. Lack of regular attention may lead to: Sashes that do not move smoothly. holes in the frame that allow water causing damage and decay. Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or cause cill. In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their durability, slim and cheap, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash windows are just as effective as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive. The industry of replacement windows has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were decayed drafty, noisy and beyond repair. Many old windows made of timber are repairable and can be used for many more years with minor repairs. 5. Maintenance Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your window's sash, it could result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of the sashes may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to be misaligned and unable to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or slammed into an open position, which can let water and draughts enter the property. Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented with careful painting, regular repairs, and removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten sections of timber must be removed and the affected part carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same kind of timber as the ones remaining. This repair method increases the amount original fabric and is one of least invasive ways to treat the rot that occurs between timber and timber. A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to the traditional process of sanding or staining. It is brushed on the surface of the wood to help stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which can help prevent the breakage. It is essential that any ironmongery from the past like sash stays and latches are kept and restored rather than replaced. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings, such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided if at all possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.