20 Things You Need To Know About Sash Windows Cambridge

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and become difficult to open or shut. This is usually due to moisture that can cause the timber to expand.

Box sash windows were previously operated using chains, cotton cords and lead weights. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to address this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed according to imperial sizes that are modular the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original sizes. This allows the restoration to be in line with modern energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation regulations for the area. It also comes with a window that is far superior to uPVC options.

Sliding sash window lock repairs frames were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However the production became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with greater glass. By the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant wooden windows And doors cambridge style in a majority of British properties. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light into rooms without the use of curtains.

Early windows were plain glass but by the 17th century sash windows began to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the beginning but when glass repair cambridge production became less expensive and more efficient, they became an integral feature in many homes of the period.

In the 19th century, it was possible to manufacture large, sturdy glass that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame to be made bigger and, in turn, gave the viewer a better view. This was a significant innovation.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another significant improvement that came about in the I920s and beginning of the 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.

Oak was used for older and more luxurious buildings. It is essential to keep the separation bead that separates the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers are vital for the proper operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger glass sheets were made available, sash windows began replacing hinged casements. They were made of plate glass, placed within timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced led lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to an increase in demand for ironmongery. The most common fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights and stoppers for sashes shutter hinges and handles, and various fasteners used to secure the sashes. They were often decorated with designs, inscriptions, and engravings to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be extremely energy-efficient with regular maintenance. If they are not maintained, they can become drafty. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of paint and putty. This can be remedied by using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the perception that old windows are damaged beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause substantial disruption to the home. To prevent this homeowners, many choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and eliminating the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than traditional windows with sash. These double glazing cambridge-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating 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 appearance. Ironmongery, such as sash chain, mortice bolts and sash lock could be put in place. These can be installed to ensure that the window is still able to be opened for ventilation or cleaning. These products are usually minimal in appearance, as they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches, which must be replaced by more robust versions (such ones that have double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the chance of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames are usually made from oak or slow-grown deal. When glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and, if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by the same wood. PVC-u companies often 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 coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a large amount of light to enter buildings. At the end of the 18th century they were altered to allow even more light into rooms, and larger glazing panes began to be produced. The result was a much lighter appearance, and windows that had a higher quality of design than before.

The introduction of sash windows also required an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and leaded. There were also different kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. The ironmongery pieces need to be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their exquisite design.

To keep them in good condition, wooden windows need to be maintained. A lack of regular attention can lead to:

sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

holes in the frame allow water causing damage and decay.

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

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

The industry of replacement windows has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their windows are rotten, draughty and beyond economic repair. However, many older windows made of timber are in good condition and with minor repairs could easily be serviceable for many years to be.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your window's sash, it could result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movements within the frame, which can cause the sash to not close properly. The sash can also be stuck in its open position, which allows water and draughts to enter the property.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by water entry. This can be prevented by regular maintenance as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. The rotten timber sections must be removed with care and the affected area should be snared together or pieced together by using replacements of the same type as the remaining timber. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric retained and is one of the least invasive ways of treating decay of timber to timber.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is an alternative to traditional sanding and staining. This is brushed onto the surface of the timber to help stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which help prevent breakage.

It is important that any old ironmongery like sash stays and latches are kept and restored instead of replaced. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings like chain stays and sash lifts is avoided whenever possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made of timber.