10 Real Reasons People Hate Sash Windows Cambridge
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of how they appear. Sash windows can get stuck and become difficult to open and close. This is usually due to moisture which can cause the timber to expand.
Box sash windows were traditionally operated with chains or cotton cords as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash window springs are hidden to avoid 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 size. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows to comply with current energy standards and comply with conservation area regulations. It also provides a window that is far superior to uPVC options.
Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, however the production process became cheaper and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most sought-after 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 clear glass however, by the 17th Century the sash windows began to be more decorative. They were initially made of colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and less expensive, they became a feature of numerous period houses.
In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, sturdy glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to increase further and this in turn gave a better view out of the window. This was a significant improvement.
The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that occurred at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened at the same time and allowed for better ventilation to buildings.
double glazed windows cambridge of sash is constructed from slow grown deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more prestigious buildings and in some earlier examples. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes, and it is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are crucial to the functioning of the window.
2. Energy efficiency
Sash windows replaced hinged cases as clearer and larger sheets became available. They were glazed with plate glass placed within timber frames with rebates and then pinned with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glazing gradually superseded led lights.
The introduction of sashes resulted in a need for a much greater variety of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners to hold the sashes into place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engravings that identified the maker.
Sash windows are energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. If they are not maintained they can get drafty. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of paint and putty. This can be corrected making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.
The market for replacement windows rests on the assumption that old windows are damaged and beyond economical repair, but they are able to be maintained with a bit of care. However, these repairs are costly and can cause substantial disruption to the home. To prevent this, many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the largest "one-stop shop" installation companies. They can replace and remove all windows in a home in just one day, avoiding the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the whole process much quicker. They are also available with 'energy saving' double-glazing to get greater energy efficiency than traditional sash windows. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.
3. Security
It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising on their aesthetics. There are many types of ironmongery that can be installed, including sash chains, mortice bolts and sash locks. They can be positioned in such a way that the window can be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These are typically not noticeable, since they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used alongside traditional sash-window catchers, which should be replaced with more robust models (such ones with double screws) or spring levers to decrease the risk of them being hammered out.
Sash-window frames were constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more luxurious homes made of oak. If glazing bars have survived, they should be preserved, and, if feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced by the same wood. PVC-u companies often provide a one-stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on an entire house in a day without the need to engage other tradespeople or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers.
4. Ventilation
When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a significant amount of light to flood into buildings. By the end of the 18th century, they were adapted to allow more light into rooms, and larger glazing panes began to be made. The result was a lighter appearance, and windows that had a higher level of elegance than they had before.
The introduction of sash windows also demanded an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of leaded and wood. There were also various kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. Ironmongery elements must be maintained and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.
Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good condition. Lack of attention to them regularly can result in:
Sashes that don't slide effortlessly.
Holes in the frame which allow water to get in and cause damage and decay.
Water can get into the putty and cause decay to the frame or cause cill.
Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s and I930s due to their strength and slim, cost-effective and matched the trend towards healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as efficient thermally as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and can be more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows.
The window replacement industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. Many older timber windows are repairable and can be utilized for a longer period with minor repairs.
5. Maintenance
The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your window's sash, it could result in the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes could also cause structural movement in the frame, which can cause the sash not to close properly. The sash could also get stuck in an open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the property.
Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented by thorough painting, periodic repairs and the elimination of the source of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified by the wavy look of the paint, which can be stripped away to reveal rotting, soft timber. The sections of timber that are rotten must be removed with care, and the affected area should be scarfed or glued together by using replacements of the same type as the remaining timber. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric that is left and is among the least invasive methods of treating timber-to-timber decay.
The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is another alternative to the traditional method of staining and sanding. This is brushed onto the surface of the timber to help stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to prevent breakage.
It is essential to preserve and not replace any old ironmongery, such as sash latches and stays. These items can be very difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is also advised that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, are avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.