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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 look. Sash windows can become stuck and become difficult to open or shut. This is often due moisture that can cause the timber to expand. Traditionally, box sash windows used chains, cotton cords or lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to address this issue. 1. Aesthetics In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are made according to the modular imperial size the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original sizes. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows in order to comply with current energy standards and comply with conservation area regulations. It also gives windows that have a more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives. Sliding sash windows were originally only used in large buildings or public buildings, but this changed as production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to produce larger frames with more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden design in British homes. As they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains. The first windows were made of plain glass however, by the 17th Century the sash windows began to be more decorative. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. They were costly initially, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were an integral feature in many homes of the period. In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, sturdy glasses that didn't need support bars. This allowed the frame size to be increased even more, which in turn meant more of a view from the window. This was an important innovation. Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. The most popular type of sash is constructed of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was also used in more luxurious buildings and in earlier examples. It is essential to keep the parting bead which separates the sashes. This will prevent rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are crucial to the operation of the window. 2. Energy efficiency As larger and clearer sheets of glass became available, sash window began to replace hinged casements. Repair My Windows And Doors was placed in rebated timber frames, secured with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to the frame's sides for watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually superseded the leaded light bulbs. The introduction of sashes created the need for a wider range of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners to hold the sashes to their the right place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and designs that were engraved to identify the maker. With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. If they are not maintained they can get draughty. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of putty and paint. This can be fixed by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products. The replacement window industry relies on the assumption that old windows are damaged and beyond repair, but they are able to be maintained with a bit of care. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause significant disruption to your home. To avoid 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 home in one day, saving time and eliminating the need for various tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double glazing to get higher energy ratings than the traditional windows made of sash. However double-glazed windows cannot replicate the section and proportions of traditional timber sashes. 3. Security Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery like sash chain, mortice bolts and sash lock could be used. They can be fitted in a manner that the window can still be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These are typically minimal in appearance, as they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers that should be replaced with more robust versions (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring levers to decrease the risk of them being hammered open. Sash-window frames are traditionally made of oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept, and, if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes removing 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 Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a large amount of light into buildings. In the 18th century, they had been modified so that more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also created. The result was a more light appearance and windows that were more elegant. Sash windows were introduced and required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of lead and wood, and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be kept and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated. To ensure they remain in good condition, timber windows require regular maintenance. Inattention to maintenance can lead to: Sashes that don't slide smoothly. holes in the frame that admit water that can cause decay and damage. Water can get into the putty and cause decay to the frame or the cill. In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their durability, slim and cheap and were in line with the trend for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as efficient thermally as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and are more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows. The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their traditional windows are rotten, draughty and beyond repair. Many older 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 fail to maintain your sash window, it could result in the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to become damaged. The removal of sashes can also cause structural movement in the frame, causing the sash to not close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or slammed into an open position and let water and draughts enter the structure. Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented with thorough painting, periodic repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. The rotten timber sections should be carefully cut out and the affected area should be scarfed together or glued together by using replacements of the same nature as the rest of the timber. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric retained and is among the least invasive ways of treating decay of timber to timber. The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to traditional sanding and staining. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which can help prevent breakage. It is crucial to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, like the sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that fittings made of aluminum like sashlifts and chainstays, are avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.