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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of how they look. Sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture which can cause the wood to expand.
Traditionally, window boxes utilized chains or cotton cord and weights made of lead to operate. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to avoid this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Unlike PVC-u windows that are constructed to modular imperial sizes, timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. 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 uPVC alternatives.
Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used for large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames using larger glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden design in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the use of curtains.
timber casement windows cost cambridge were made of clear glass, but in the 17th century the sash windows began to be more decorative. They started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. They were costly at the beginning but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were a common feature in many historic homes.
In the 19th century it was possible to make large, sturdy glass that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to increase more, which in turn allowed for a wider view from the window. This was an important improvement.
Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously and also improved the ventilation of buildings.
Oak was used in older and more luxurious buildings. A split bead divides the two sashes and it is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers also are crucial to the functioning of the window.
2. Energy efficiency
As larger and clearer sheets of glass became available, sash windows began replacing hinged casements. Glass plates were set in frames made of timber, which were pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on the frame's two sides for watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.
Sashes were introduced, which led to increased demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights and stoppers for sashes shutter hinges and handles, and a variety of fasteners used to secure the sashes. They were often decorated with designs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker.
Sash windows are energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can also cause draughts. This can be remedied by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.
The replacement window industry relies heavily on the perception that older windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a bit of attention. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause substantial disruption to the home. To prevent this homeowners often prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the large 'one stop shop' installation companies. These can remove and replace all the windows in an entire house in just one day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much quicker. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double glazing to get higher energy ratings than traditional sash window. However these double-glazed units are unable to replicate the section and proportions of the sashes made of timber from the past.
3. Security
Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their aesthetics. Ironmongery, such as sash chain, mortice bolts and sash locks can be installed. These can be installed so that the window is still open for ventilation or cleaning. These products are usually minimal in appearance, as they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. They should be replaced with more robust versions like ones that have double screws or spring levers, to minimize the risk of being hammered.
Sash-window frames are typically made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are still in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. If possible, the timber cills should be replaced by wood that is in line with. Many PVC-U firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on a complete house in just one day, without involving any other tradespeople.
4. Ventilation
When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a large amount of light into structures. At the end of the 18th century, they were adapted to allow more light into rooms and larger glass panes began to be produced. 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 necessitated 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 many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their exquisite design.
Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good order. A lack of attention to them regularly could result in:
Sashes that don't slide easily.
holes in the frame allow water that can cause decay and damage.
break down of putty, allowing water penetration, which could cause decay in the frame and cill.
In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity because they were strong, slim and cheap, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash windows are as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.
The window replacement industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten, drafty and beyond economical repair. Many old timber windows can be fixed and used for a long time with minor repairs.
5. Maintenance
A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can lead to the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars and the deterioration of putty and paint. 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. The sash could also get stuck in its open position, which allows water and draughts to enter the building.
Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided with regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten timber sections must be removed and the affected part carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same type of wood as the ones that remain. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric that was originally used and is among the least invasive ways to treat wood-to-timber rot.
The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to the traditional method of sanding and staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is especially useful to treat sash and pulley cords, which can help prevent breakage.
It is crucial to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery, like stay latches and sash latches. These items can be very difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings, such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided if at all feasible as they could cause corrosion and deterioration to frames and sashes made of timber.