How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can become 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 traditionally operated by chains or cotton cords as well as lead weights. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to eliminate this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes and are modular, are able to be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows in order to comply with current energy standards and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also provides an option that is superior to uPVC alternatives.
Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, but this changed as production became cheaper and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. By the late 18th century sash windows were the dominant design of wood in the majority of British properties. Since they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.
The first windows were made of glass that was plain However, in the 17th century, sash windows began to be more decorative. They started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. These were very expensive at the time but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they became a part of many of the period homes.
In the 19th century it was possible to create large, strong glass that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to be enlarged further, which meant more of a view from the window. This was a very important advancement.
The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a significant improvement that came about towards the end of the I920s and the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and gave improved ventilation to buildings.
Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is crucial to maintain the separation bead that divides the sashes. This will prevent rattles and draughts. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good shape as they aid in operating the window.
2. Energy efficiency
As larger and clearer glass sheets were made available, sash windows started replacing hinged casements. They were coated with plate glass that was set in timber frames with rebates and then pinned with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights.
The introduction of sashes resulted in an need for a greater variety of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, knobs and shutters as well as a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes in the right place. These were often decorated in motifs, inscriptions, and engravings to identify the maker.
Sash windows can be extremely energy-efficient with regular maintenance. Without this maintenance they can get draughty. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of paint and putty. This can be fixed by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.
The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the belief that old windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs are costly and can cause significant disruption to your home. To prevent this homeowners often opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one the many "one-stop shop" installation companies. They can take down and replace all windows in an entire house in just one day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much faster. They can also be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing, which can achieve more energy efficient ratings than are possible with traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed windows aren't able to replicate the proportions and sections of the sashes made of timber from the past.
3. Security
Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their appearance. There are many types of ironmongery that are available with sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. These can be installed in a way so that the window is able to be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These are typically unobtrusive, 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 as those incorporating double screws) or spring levers to decrease the possibility of them being hammered open.
Sash-window frames are traditionally constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are still intact and are not damaged, they should be left. Where feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced with wood that matches. PVC-U companies usually offer a one stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on a complete house in a day without the need to involve 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 substantial amount of light to flood into the buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were modified to let more light into rooms, and larger glazing panes began to be produced. The result was a much lighter appearance, and windows with a higher level of elegance than they had before.
The introduction of sash windows also necessitated a new range of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, while later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a combination of lead and wood, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be kept and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.
To ensure they remain in good shape, timber windows need to be maintained. 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 putty, allowing water penetration that can lead to decay in the frame and cill.
Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s and I930s because they were sturdy and slim, and also because they were cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash windows are as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.
The industry of replacement windows has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were rotten drafty, noisy and beyond repair. Many old windows made of timber can be repaired and utilized for a longer period with minor repairs.
5. Maintenance
A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly can lead to sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame, causing the sash to not close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or fixed in an open position and let water and draughts enter the structure.
Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented by thorough painting, regular repairs, and removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. The sections of timber that are rotten must be removed with care and the affected area should be snared together or pieced together with replacements of the exact type as the remaining timber. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric used in the first place and is one of least invasive ways to treat wood-to-timber rot.
The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is an alternative to traditional sanding and staining. It is brushed on the surface of the wood to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is especially beneficial for treating sash and pulley cords, which cambridge double glazing can stop breakage.
It is crucial to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery such as stay latches and sash latches. It can be difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings, such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided whenever possible as they can cause corrosion and deterioration to frames and sashes made of timber.