What's Holding Back In The Sash Windows Cambridge Industry?

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of how they look. However, sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture that can cause the wood to expand.

Box sash windows were historically operated with chains, cotton cords and weights made of lead. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are manufactured according to the modular imperial size Timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows in order to comply with current energy standards and comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also offers an option that is superior to the uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash window frames were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became more affordable and artisans could create larger frames using larger glass. In the 18th century, windows made of sash were the predominant wooden design in most British properties. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light into rooms without the use of curtains.

The first windows were made of clear glass, but by the 17th Century sash windows started to become more attractive. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and cheaper they became a feature of numerous period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to produce large, sturdy glasses that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be enlarged and, in turn, gave a better view. This was an important improvement.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and the beginning of I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.

Oak was used for older examples and more prestigious buildings. A split bead divides the two sashes, and it is essential that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are vital to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As larger and clearer sheets of glass were made available, sash windows started replacing hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass set in timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This type of glazing gradually replaced led lights.

The introduction of sashes resulted in an need for a larger variety of ironmongery including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs as well as a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes into place. These were usually decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. But, if you don't maintain them, they can become draughty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can also cause draughts.  cambridge window  is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber products.

The replacement window industry relies heavily on the notion that old windows are beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause substantial disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a large "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can replace all windows in a home in a single day, saving time and avoiding the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving' double glazing to achieve higher energy ratings than traditional windows with sash. However, these double-glazed units cannot duplicate the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their aesthetics. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain and sash locks can be used. They can be positioned in a manner that the window can still be opened for ventilation and cleaning. They are generally minimal in appearance, as they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used with traditional sash window catches. These should be replaced with more robust versions like ones that have double screws or spring levers to decrease the chance of being hit with hammers.

Sash-window frames were typically made from slow-growing deal or, in the more elegant homes made of oak. If the glazing bars remain in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. If it is it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced by wood that is in line with. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows throughout a house in just one day, without involving other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a significant amount of light into buildings. By the end 18th century, they were adapted so that even more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also made. The result was a much 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. The first pulleys were made of wood, while later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a mixture of wood and lead, and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces must be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their fine design.

To keep them in good condition, wooden windows require regular maintenance. A lack of regular attention could lead to:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

Holes in the frame which allow water to enter and cause decay and damage.

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

Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s and I930s due to their strength and slim, and also because they were cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash window are just as effective as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The replacement window industry has done a lot to convince homeowners that their traditional windows are rotten, draughty and beyond repair. Many old timber windows are repairable and can be utilized for a longer period with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can result in broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes could also result in structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to be misaligned and not closing properly. The sash may also become stuck in its open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the building.

Damage to windows made of timber is usually caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented with careful painting, regular repairs and elimination of the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut out and the affected area carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made from the same kind of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric left, and is one of the least invasive methods for treating decay of timber to timber.

A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to traditional sanding or staining. This is brushed onto the surface of the wood to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is especially useful to treat pulley cords and sash, which can help prevent 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 altering their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings, such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided whenever possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration to frames and sashes made from timber.