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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and 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 timber to expand.

Box sash windows were previously operated with chains, cotton cords and lead weights. Modern sash window springs are hidden to eliminate this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes, which are modular, can be restored to original dimensions. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows to meet the current energy requirements and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also gives windows with a superior appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were originally only used in large buildings or public buildings, however this changed when production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to make larger frames with more glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden design in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light in rooms without the use of curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass, but in the 17th century the sash windows began to become more attractive. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they became a feature of numerous period houses.

By the 19th century it was possible to make large, sturdy glass that didn't require support bars. This allowed for the frame to be made bigger, which in turn gave an improved view. This was a significant improvement.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of the I920s and beginning of I930s. The double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.

The most common type of sash is constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more luxurious buildings and in earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes, and it is important that this is well maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good working order as they assist in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger sheets of glass became available, sash window started replacing hinged casements. Plate glass was placed in rebated timber frames, secured with glazing sprigs and putty was then sprayed onto the frame's sides to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which resulted in an increase in demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights and stoppers for sashes shutter hinges and handles and a variety of fasteners used to secure the sashes. These were usually decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engravings to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they can become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can cause draughts too. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber products.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the perception that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, while they are able to be maintained with a bit of care. These repairs can be costly and cause lots of disruption to the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows with PVC-u from a "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can take down and replace all windows in an entire house in just one day, eliminating the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much faster. They can also be supplied with 'energy saving' double-glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than traditional windows with sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to duplicate the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their appearance. Many types of ironmongery can be installed including sash chains mortice bolts, and sash locks. They can be positioned in a manner that the window can still be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These windows are typically unobtrusive as they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catches. These should be replaced by more robust models, such as those that incorporate double screws or spring levers to decrease the chance of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames were typically made from slow-growing deal or, in the more elegant homes, from oak. If glazing bars have survived, they should be preserved, and where feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop installation service. They can take down and replace windows on a complete house in just one day, without involving other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a significant amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. By the end 18th century, they were adapted so that even more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also created. 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 were made from wood, whereas later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their beautiful design.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. Lack of attention to them regularly can result in:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

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

Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or cause cill.

Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s and I930s due to their strength and slim, cost-effective and matched the trend of healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash windows are as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The replacement windows cambridge window industry has done a lot to persuade house owners that their windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. The truth is that a lot of older windows made of timber are in good shape and with minor repairs could easily be repaired for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your window's sash, it could lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause the paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movements within the frame, which can cause the sash to not close correctly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or fixed in the open position and this can let water and draughts enter the property.

The damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented with careful painting, regular repairs, and removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. Any rotten sections of timber must be removed and the affected area carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same kind of timber as the ones that remain. This repair method increases the amount of fabric that was originally used and is one of least invasive ways to treat wood-to-timber rot.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is an alternative to the traditional method of staining and sanding. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is especially beneficial to treat sash and pulley cords, where it can prevent breakage.

It is crucial to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, such as stay latches and sash latches. These items are difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is also recommended that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of Timber Double Glazed Windows Cambridge frames and sashes.