10 Things People Hate About Sash Windows Cambridge
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of the way they look. However, sash windows can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is usually due moisture which can cause the wood to swell.
Traditionally, box sash windows utilized chains or cotton cords and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to address this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Unlike PVC-u windows that are made according to imperial sizes that are modular the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original sizes. This lets the restoration be in line with modern energy requirements while still complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also gives windows with a superior appearance than uPVC alternatives.
Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, though this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden design in British homes. Sash windows were easy 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 first, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they became commonplace in many homes of the period.
By the 19th century it was possible to create large, sturdy glass that did not need supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be made bigger and, in turn, gave a better view. This was a very important improvement.
Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened at the same time and gave improved ventilation to buildings.
The most popular type of sash is made from slow grown deal (pine) however oak was also used in more luxurious buildings and in earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes. It is important that this is well maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers also are crucial to the operation of the window.
2. Energy efficiency
Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets were made available. Plate glass was placed in rebated timber frames, secured with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on both sides of the frame to ensure watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced leaded lights.
The introduction of sashes created the need for a greater variety of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers, shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners that secured the sashes into the right place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and engraved patterns that identified the maker.
Sash windows can be extremely energy-efficient with regular maintenance. However, if they are not maintained, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. You can fix this problem by using wood-to-timber products.
The market for replacement windows rests on the belief that older windows are old and beyond economical repair, while they are able to be maintained with a bit of care. These repairs can be costly and cause a lot of disruption in the home. To avoid this homeowners often opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace and remove all windows in a home in a single day, avoiding the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much quicker. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving' double glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of replicating the proportions or section of historic timber sashes.
3. Security
It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising on their aesthetics. A variety of ironmongery types can be installed, including sash chains, mortice bolts, and sash locks. They can be positioned in a way so that the window is able to be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These windows are typically discrete since they are made to work with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. These should be replaced with more robust versions like those that incorporate double screws or spring levers, to minimize the chance of being struck by hammers.
Sash-window frames were constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more prestigious houses they were made from oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept, and if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with matching wood. Many PVC-U firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can take down and replace windows throughout a home in a single day, without involving other tradespeople.
4. Ventilation
When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light to flood into buildings. At 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 lighter look and windows that were more elegant.
Sash windows were introduced and required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, whereas later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be kept and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.
Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good condition. Inattention to maintenance routinely could lead to:
Sashes that don't slide easily.
holes in the frame that admit water causing damage and decay.
Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or the cill.
In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows grew in popularity because they were strong slim and affordable and also matched the fashion for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient thermally as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and can be more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows.
The window replacement industry did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. The truth is that a lot of old timber windows are in good shape and, with minor repairs, could easily be repaired for many years to be.
5. Maintenance
A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it could cause the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes can also cause structural movement in the frame, which can cause the sash not to close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or slammed into an open position, which can let water and draughts in the structure.
The damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture infiltration. This can be prevented by regular maintenance as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy look of the existing paint which can be removed to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any timber that is rotting must be removed and the affected part carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made of the same type of wood as the ones that remain. window doctor cambridge of repair maximizes the amount of fabric that was originally used and is one of most non-invasive methods to treat timber-to-timber rot.
The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is another alternative to the traditional method of staining and sanding. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly useful in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which can help stop breakage.
It is essential that any ironmongery from the past such as sash stay and latches are retained and restored instead of replacing them. They can be extremely difficult to replace without damaging the quality of the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings like sash lifts and chain stays should be avoided if possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.