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 become stuck and be difficult to open or shut. This is typically due to moisture which can cause the wood to expand.
Box sash windows were previously operated using chains or cotton cords, as well as lead weights. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to eliminate this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes that are modular, are able to be restored to original dimensions. This lets the restoration be in line with modern energy requirements while still complying with conservation area regulations. It also offers an option that is superior to the uPVC options.
Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became less expensive and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows were the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. As they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without the need for curtains.
The first windows were made of plain glass, but in the 17th century sash windows began to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were costly at first, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they became an integral feature in many historic homes.
In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, strong glass that did not need supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be enlarged, which in turn gave the viewer a better view. This was an important advancement.
The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.
Oak was used for older and more luxurious buildings. It is crucial to maintain the separation bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will prevent rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are vital to the operation of the window.
2. Energy efficiency
Sash windows replaced hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets were made available. Plate glass was placed in frames of timber that were rebated, then pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on both sides of the frame to ensure watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.
Sashes were introduced, which resulted in increased demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges as well as a variety of fasteners used to secure the sashes. These were often decorated in motifs, inscriptions, and engravings to identify the maker.
Sash windows can be very energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. But, if you don't maintain them, they can become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty may also cause draughts. It is possible to fix this issue with wood-to-timber products.
The industry of replacement windows is based on the belief that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, whereas they can be maintained with a little attention. Repairs can be costly and cause many disruptions in the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a large "one-stop shop" installation company. They can replace all windows in a home in one day, saving time and avoiding the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be supplied with energy-saving double-glazing, which can achieve more energy efficient ratings than traditional windows with sash. 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 on their aesthetics. Many types of ironmongery are available with sash chains, mortice bolts, and locks for sash. They can be fitted in a way that the window is capable of being opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. These products are often unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches and are required to be replaced with more robust versions (such ones with double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the chance of them being hammered open.
Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow grown deal or, in more luxurious homes made of oak. If glazing bars have survived, they should be preserved, and, if possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by identical wood. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take down and replace windows throughout a home in one day, without involving other tradespeople.
4. Ventilation
When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light into buildings. By the end of the 18th century, they were modified to let even more light into rooms, and larger glass panes began to be made. The result was a lighter look and windows with more elegance.
Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new type 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 various kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. These ironmongery pieces must be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their exquisite design.
To keep them in good condition, timber windows need to be maintained. Inattention to maintenance routinely could result in:
Sashes that do not move effortlessly.
Holes in the frame which allow water to enter and cause damage and decay.
The putty can be soaked by water and cause decay to the frame or the cill.
Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s and I930s because they were sturdy and slim, cost-effective and complemented the trend for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as efficient in thermal efficiency as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.
The window replacement industry did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed, drafty and beyond economical repair. Many older timber windows are repairable and can be 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 lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can 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 move out of alignment and not closing properly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or fixed in the open position and let water and draughts into the structure.
The damage to timber windows is often caused by water infiltration. This can be prevented by thorough double glazing company cambridge painting, periodic repairs and the elimination of the source of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy look of the paint that can be removed to reveal soft, rotting timber. Any timber that is rotting should be cut out and the affected part carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made of the same type of wood as the ones that remain. This repair method increases the amount of fabric that was originally used and is one of most minimally invasive methods of treating wood-to-timber rot.
The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is an alternative to traditional staining and sanding. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulley cords and sash which can help prevent breakage.
It is crucial that any ironmongery from the past such as sash stays and latches be kept and restored instead of replacing them. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings, such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided whenever possible as they can cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.