How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in cambridge double glazing

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows may become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture, which can cause the wood to swell.

Traditionally, window boxes utilised chains, cotton cords or lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to overcome this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Unlike PVC-u windows that are made according to the modular imperial size the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows in order to meet the current energy requirements and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also provides windows that are superior to uPVC options.

Sliding windows cambridge with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However the production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames using greater glass. In the 18th century, windows made of sash were the predominant wooden style in a majority of British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and allowed light to enter 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 ornamental. They were initially made of colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were costly initially, but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became a common feature in many homes of the period.

In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, strong glass that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame's size to be increased even more, which in turn allowed for a wider view from the window. This was an important innovation.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that occurred in the I920s and 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 a building.

The most popular type of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was used in the more prestigious buildings and in some earlier examples. A split bead divides the two sashes. It is important that this is well maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. It is also important that sash pulleys and idler wheels are in good condition as these help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets were made available. Glass plates were set in frames made of timber, which were secured with glazing sprigs and putty was then sprayed onto both sides of the frame to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to increased demand for ironmongery. The most common fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges and a variety of fasteners used to secure the sashes. These were often decorated in patterns, inscriptions and patterns engraved to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. If they are not maintained they could become drafty. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of putty and paint. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber products.

The replacement window industry relies on the perception that older windows are old and beyond economical repair, whereas they can be easily maintained with a bit of care. These repairs can be expensive and cause a lot of disruption in the home. To prevent this, many homeowners prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the largest "one stop shop" installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and avoiding the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving' double glazing to achieve higher energy ratings than the traditional sash window. However, these double-glazed units cannot duplicate the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their style. A variety of ironmongery types can be fitted including sash chains mortice bolts, and locks for sash. They can be fitted in a way so that the window is able to be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These products are often unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. These should be replaced by more robust versions, such as those that incorporate double screws, or sprung levers, to minimize the risk of being hammered.

Sash-window frames are usually made from oak or slow-grown deal. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept, and, if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by the same wood. PVC-u companies typically provide a one-stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on a complete home in a single 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 into the buildings. In the 18th century, they had been adapted so that even 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 quality of design than before.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, while later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a mixture of wood and lead, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their beautiful design.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good order. Lack of attention to them regularly can result in:

Sashes that do not slide smoothly.

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

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

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their durability, slim and cheap and were in line with the trend for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash window are as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The industry of replacement windows has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were decayed, drafty and beyond economical repair. Many old timber windows can be fixed and used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it can result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause paint and putty degrade. The removal of the sashes may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to be misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. The sash could also get stuck in its open position, which allows water and draughts to enter the property.

Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be avoided with regular maintenance by thorough painting and eliminating the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. The sections of timber that are rotten should be carefully removed and the affected area should be scarfed together or pieced together using replacements of the same kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair increases the amount of original fabric that is left and is among the least invasive methods of treating decay caused by timber.

A wood condenser made of resin is a viable alternative to traditional process of sanding or staining. This is brushed onto the surface of the timber Double Glazed windows cambridge to help stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful for the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which help stop breakage.

It is crucial to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery, such as sash latches and stays. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings, such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided whenever possible as they can cause corrosion and damage to frames and sashes made of timber.