10 Misconceptions Your Boss Shares Concerning Sash Windows Cambridge
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 can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture that can cause the timber to swell.
Box sash windows were previously operated with chains, cotton cords and lead weights. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to solve this problem.
1. Aesthetics
Contrary to PVC-u windows which are made according to imperial sizes that are modular, timber sash windows can be restored to their original sizes. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and comply with conservation area regulations. It also provides windows that have a superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.
Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally intended for large structures or public buildings. However this changed as production became cheaper and artisans could make larger frames using more glass. In the 18th century, Sash windows were the most popular wooden design in most British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the use of curtains.
The first windows were made of clear glass However, by the 17th Century the sash windows began to become more attractive. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and cheaper they were a common feature in numerous period houses.
In the 19th century, it became possible to produce large, sturdy glasses that didn't need supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be made bigger, which in turn gave an improved view. This was an important innovation.
Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously and allowed for better ventilation to buildings.
Oak was used for older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead which divides the sashes. This will stop 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
Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets became available. cambridge window were coated with plate glass that was placed within timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.
The introduction of sashes led to the need for a wider range of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers, shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners to hold the sashes to their the right place. They were often decorated with designs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker.
Sash windows can be very energy-efficient with regular maintenance. If they are not maintained they can get draughty. Paint and putty can cause draughts. You can fix this problem by using wood-to-timber solutions.
The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the perception that old windows are beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a little attention. These repairs can be expensive and cause a lot of disruption in the home. To avoid this, many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the large "one-stop shop" installation companies. These can remove and replace all windows in an entire house in a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much more efficient. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than the traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.
3. Security
It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising on their aesthetics. A variety of ironmongery types can be fitted with sash chains, mortice bolts, and sash locks. They can be positioned in such a way that the window can still be open for ventilation and cleaning. These are typically unobtrusive, as they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. These should be replaced by more robust models like those with double screws, or sprung levers in order to reduce the chance of being hit with hammers.
Sash-window frames are usually made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars remain intact and in good condition, they should be kept. If feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced with wood that matches. PVC-U companies usually provide a one-stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows across a home in a single day without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from different suppliers.
4. Ventilation
Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a huge amount of light to enter buildings. At the end of the 18th century they were modified to let even more light into rooms, and larger glass panes began to be produced. The result was a lighter look and windows with more elegance.
The introduction of sash windows also required a new range of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, while later Victorian ones were made from brass or a mixture of lead and wood and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be maintained and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.
To ensure they remain in good shape, timber windows must be maintained. Lack of attention to them regularly can lead to:
sashes that no longer slide smoothly.
holes in the frame that admit water that can cause decay and damage.
Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or the cill.
Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s & I930s because they were sturdy and slim, cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows are as efficient thermally as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.
The replacement window industry has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. The truth is that a lot of old windows made of timber are in good shape and, with minor repairs, could easily be maintained for years to be.
5. Maintenance
The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can lead to broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of the sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to be misaligned and unable to close correctly. The sash could also get stuck in the open position, which allows water and draughts to enter the property.
Damage to timber windows is often caused by water penetration. This can be prevented by regular repairs, thorough painting and removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified due to the wavy appearance of the paint that can be stripped away to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any rotten timber sections must be removed and the affected part carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same kind of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric retained and is one of the least invasive ways of treating timber-to-timber decay.
The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is an alternative to traditional sanding and staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to stop breakage.
It is important that any old ironmongery such as sash stays and latches are kept and rehabilitated instead of being replacing them. These items can be very difficult to replace without harming the the original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium fittings, such as sashlifts and chainstays, are avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.