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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture, which can cause the timber to swell. Box sash windows were historically operated using chains or cotton cords as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to solve this issue. 1. Aesthetics In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are made according to imperial sizes that are modular, timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows in order to meet current energy requirements and to comply with conservation area regulations. It also provides an option that is superior to uPVC alternatives. Sliding windows with sash were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However the production became less expensive and craftsmen could create larger frames using larger glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light in rooms without the use of curtains. The first windows were made of plain glass but by the 17th century sash windows were becoming more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they were a common feature in many of the period homes. In the 19th century, it was possible to manufacture large, sturdy glass that did not need supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to be enlarged further, which allowed for a wider view out of the window. This was an important innovation. double glazing cambridge was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously and gave improved ventilation to buildings. Oak was used for older examples and for more prestigious buildings. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will stop rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are vital to the operation of the window. 2. Energy efficiency Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets were made available. Plate glass was placed in frames of timber that were rebated, then which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was applied to both sides of the frame to ensure watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced the use of leaded lights. The introduction of sashes led to the need for a wider range of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, knobs and shutters, and a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes into place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns that identified the maker. With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they can become draughty and let in cold air. Putty and paint can cause draughts. This issue can be fixed with wood-to-timber products. The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the belief that old windows are damaged beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs are costly and can cause significant disruption to your home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a large “one-stop shop” installation company. They can replace and remove all the windows in a house in just one day, eliminating the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much faster. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving double-glazing to attain more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed units are not able to replicate the proportions and sections of sashes from old timber. 3. Security Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their aesthetics. There are many types of ironmongery that can be fitted, including sash chains, mortice bolts and sash locks. They can be fitted in a way so that the window is able to be open for ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually not noticeable, since they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used with traditional sash window catches. These should be replaced by more robust versions like those with double screws or spring levers to decrease the chance of being struck by hammers. Sash-window frames were constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more luxurious homes they were made from oak. If the glazing bars are in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. Where possible, the timber cills should be replaced by wood that is in line with. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows on a complete home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers. 4. Ventilation Sash windows were introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a large amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. By the end of the 18th century, they were adapted to allow even more light into rooms and larger glass panes began to be produced. The result was a more light appearance and windows that were more elegant. Sash windows were introduced, which required a new range ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, whereas later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their fine design. Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good order. Inattention to maintenance routinely could cause: Sashes that do not move easily. Holes in the frame that allow water to enter and cause damage and decay. Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or cause cill. Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s & I930s because they were strong and slim, and also because they were cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient thermally as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and are more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows. The window replacement industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten, drafty and beyond economical repair. Many old windows made of timber can be fixed and used for a long time with minor repairs. 5. Maintenance A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your sash window, it can cause the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to move out of alignment and not closing properly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or fixed in an open position, which can let water and draughts in the structure. Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be prevented by regular repairs, thorough painting and removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy appearance of the existing paint which can be stripped away to reveal rotting, soft timber. The sections of timber that are rotten should be carefully cut out and the affected part should be scarfed together or pieced together by using replacements of the same type as the remaining timber. This method of repair increases the amount original fabric and is among the least invasive ways to treat timber-to-timber rot. The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to the traditional method of sanding and staining. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is particularly beneficial for the treatment of sash cords and pulleys where it can help to prevent breakage. It is essential to preserve and not replace any historical ironmongery such as sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings, such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided whenever possible since they can cause corrosion and damage to frames and sashes made from timber.