Are You Getting The Most From Your Sash Windows Cambridge

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is often due moisture that can cause the timber to expand.

Traditionally, window boxes used chains or cotton cord and lead weights to operate. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to avoid this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes, which are modular, can be reconstructed to their original dimensions. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows in order to meet current energy requirements and comply with conservation area regulations. It also offers an option that is superior to the upvc repairs options.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used for large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became less expensive and craftsmen could create larger frames using larger glass. By the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant wooden design in most British homes. Because they were simple to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without 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. These were very expensive at the time but as glass production improved and cheaper they became a part of many period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, sturdy glasses that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame size to be increased even more, which in turn allowed for a wider view from the window. This was an important innovation.

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

The most commonly used type of sash is constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was used in the more prestigious buildings and in some earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes, and it is essential that it is well maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. It is also important that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good condition as these aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger sheets of glass became available, sash plastic window repair began to replace hinged casements. Glass plates were set in frames made of timber, which were which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was sprayed on both sides of the frame to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes resulted in the need for a wider range of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges, knobs and shutters as well as a range of fasteners to hold the sashes to their the right place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of paint and putty. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber products.

The industry of replacement windows cambridge windows is based on the perception that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, whereas they can be easily maintained with just a little care. However, these upvc repairs near me are costly and can cause substantial disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a large "one-stop shop" installation company. They can take down and replace all the windows in a house in a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much more efficient. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than traditional sash window. However, these double-glazed units cannot reproduce the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their style. A variety of ironmongery types are available with sash chains, mortice bolts and sash locks. These can be installed in a manner that the window can be open for ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually unobtrusive, as they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. These should be replaced with more robust versions like those with double screws or spring levers to decrease the possibility of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames are traditionally made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are intact, they should be retained. If it is feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. PVC-u companies typically offer 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

Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a large amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were modified so that more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a lighter appearance and windows that were more elegant.

Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new type of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be maintained and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good shape. Lack of regular attention may result in:

sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

holes in the frame that admit water causing damage and decay.

break down of the putty and allow water to penetrate, which could lead to decay of the frame and cill.

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their strength, slim and cheap and were in line with the trend for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash windows are just as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The window installation cambridge replacement industry has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their traditional windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. Many old windows made of timber are repairable and can be utilized for a longer period with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

The 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 can also cause paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movements within the frame, causing the sash not to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or slammed into an open position and let water and draughts in the structure.

Damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture penetration. This can be avoided with regular maintenance as well as thorough painting, and then removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. Any rotten timber sections must be removed and the affected part carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made of the same type of wood as those remaining. This method of repair increases the amount of original fabric that is left and is one of the least invasive ways of treating decay caused by timber.

A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to the traditional staining or sanding. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to prevent breakage.

It is essential that any ironmongery from the past such as sash stay and latches be kept and restored instead of replacing them. It is difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also advised that fittings made of aluminum like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.