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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows may become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture which can cause the timber to expand. Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilised chains, cotton cords or lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to overcome this problem. 1. Aesthetics In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are made to modular imperial sizes the timber sash windows 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 comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also comes with windows that are superior to the uPVC alternatives. Sliding windows with sash were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However the production became more affordable and artisans could make larger frames using greater glass. In the 18th century, Sash windows were the most popular wooden style in a majority of British properties. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the need for curtains. The first windows were made of plain glass However, in the 17th century the sash windows began to become more attractive. They started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at first, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they became a common feature in many period houses. In the 19th century, it was possible to manufacture large, strong glass that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to increase more, which in turn meant more of a view from the window. This was a significant advancement. Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and at 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 essential to keep the parting bead that divides the sashes. This will prevent draughts and rattles. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good working order as they help to operate the window. 2. Energy efficiency As clearer and larger glass sheets became available, sash window started replacing hinged casements. Glass plates were set 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 kind of glazing gradually replaced led lights. The introduction of sashes led to a need for a much larger variety of ironmongery with the basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges and knobs as well as a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes in the right place. These were usually decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engraved patterns to identify the maker. With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. Without this maintenance they could become drafty. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. window seal replacement near me can be fixed by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary. The market for replacement windows rests on the belief that old windows are damaged and beyond repair, but they can be maintained with a bit of care. These repairs can be costly and cause a lot of disruption in the home. To prevent this homeowners, many prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the many “one stop shop” installation companies. These can remove and replace all windows in a house in just one day, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen, making the whole process much faster. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving' double glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows with sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to replicate the section and proportions of the sashes made of timber from the past. 3. Security Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their aesthetics. A variety of ironmongery types are available, including sash chains, mortice bolts and sash locks. These can be installed in a manner that the window can still be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually unobtrusive, as they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used with traditional sash window catch. They should be replaced with more robust versions, such as those with double screws or spring levers to decrease the possibility of being struck by hammers. Sash-window frames are traditionally made of oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars remain intact, they should be retained. If feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced by wood that matches. Many PVC-U companies provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on a complete house in just one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople. 4. Ventilation When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a significant amount of light to flood into the 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 made. The result was a much more streamlined appearance, and windows with a higher degree of elegance than before. Sash windows were introduced, which required a new range 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 different types of knobs and shutter hinges. The ironmongery components should be retained and cleaned down so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated. To keep them in good condition, wooden windows need to be maintained. Inattention to maintenance routinely could lead to: 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 penetration, which can lead to decay in the frame and cill. Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s & I930s because they were sturdy and slim, cheap and complemented the trend for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows are as thermally efficient as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and can be more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows. The industry of replacement windows did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten, drafty and beyond economical repair. The reality is that many old timber windows are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be serviceable for many years to come. 5. Maintenance The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do this can lead to broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to be misaligned and not closing properly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or fixed in the open position and this can let water and draughts enter the property. Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to timber windows. This can be prevented with thorough painting, regular repairs, and removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten timber sections must be removed and the affected area carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made of the same type of wood as the ones that remain. This method of repair maximises the amount of fabric that is left and is among the least invasive methods of treating decay caused by timber. The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is another alternative to traditional staining and sanding. The product is brushed on to the surface of the timber to help stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is especially useful for treating sash and pulley cords, where it can prevent breakage. It is important to restore and not replace any old ironmongery, like sash latches and stays. They can be extremely difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings such as chain stays and sash lifts should be avoided if possible as they can cause corrosion and deterioration to timber frames and sashes.