How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in cambridge windows and doors

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

Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilized chains or cotton cord and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash window springs are hidden to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes, which are modular, are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows in order to comply with current energy standards and conform to conservation area regulations. It also provides windows that are superior to Upvc Window Lock Repair alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, though this changed as production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden windows and doors cambridge style in British homes. As they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.

Early windows were simple glass but by the 17th century sash windows began to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive initially, but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became commonplace in many historic homes.

In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, strong glasses that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to increase more, which in turn allowed for a wider view out of the window seal repairs near me. This was a significant advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made towards the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened at the same time and gave improved ventilation to the building.

The most commonly used kind of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was used in the more prestigious buildings and in earlier examples. It is important to maintain the separation bead that separates the sashes. This will stop draughts and rattles. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are crucial to the operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets were made available. They were made of plate glass, set in timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to a greater demand for ironmongery. The most common fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges and various fasteners used to fix the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and designs that were engraved to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. If they are not maintained they can get noisy. Putty and paint can cause draughts. This can be remedied by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the belief that older windows are old and beyond repair, but they can be maintained with a little attention. Repairs can be expensive and cause lots of disruption to the home. To prevent this, many homeowners prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the largest "one stop shop" installation companies. They can replace and remove all the windows in a home in a single day, avoiding the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much faster. They can also be fitted with 'energy-saving' double-glazing to get greater energy efficiency than are possible with traditional windows with sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to duplicate the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising on their aesthetics. There are many types of ironmongery that can be installed including sash chains mortice bolts and locks for sash. These can be put in place in a way that the window is still open for ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically not noticeable since they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window doctor catch. They are best replaced with more robust versions like ones that have double screws or spring levers to decrease the chance of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window doctor near me frames were traditionally made from slow-growing deal or, in more elegant homes they were made from oak. If the glazing bars remain in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. If it is feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced by wood that matches. PVC-U companies usually offer a one stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows on an entire home in one day, without the need to engage other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a significant amount of light into structures. By the end of the 18th century, they were adapted to allow more light into rooms and larger glazing panes began to be manufactured. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with a greater degree of elegance than before.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of wood and leaded. There were also various types of knobs and shutter hinges. The ironmongery components should be maintained and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

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

Sashes that do not slide effortlessly.

holes in the frame that allow water that can cause decay and damage.

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

In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows gained popularity because they were strong slim and inexpensive and were in line with the trend for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash window are as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

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

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do this can lead to broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of sashes could also cause structural movement in the frame, which can cause the sash to not close correctly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or slammed into an open position and let water and draughts into the structure.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by moisture infiltration. This can be prevented by careful painting, regular repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy appearance of the existing paint which can be stripped away to reveal soft, rotting wood. The rotten timber sections must be removed with care, and the affected area should be scarfed or glued together by using replacements of the same kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric left, and is one of the least invasive methods for treating timber-to-timber decay.

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 especially beneficial to treat pulley cords and sash which can stop breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any old ironmongery, such as stay latches and sash latches. 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 chain stays and sash lifts should be avoided if feasible as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.