15 Incredible Stats About 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. Sash windows can become stuck and are difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture which can cause the wood to swell.
Traditionally, box sash windows used chains or cotton cords and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash window springs are hidden to solve this problem.
1. Aesthetics
In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are manufactured according to the modular imperial size the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original size. This lets the restoration meet modern day energy requirements while still complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also provides an option that is superior to uPVC alternatives.
Sliding sash windows were originally only used in large structures or public buildings, however this changed when production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to produce larger frames with more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Because they were simple to open, sash windows let light into rooms without the need for curtains.
Early windows were plain glass but by the 17th century sash windows began to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and less expensive, they became a feature of many period houses.
In the 19th century it was possible to make large, strong glass that did not require supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be made bigger, which in turn gave an improved view. This was an important advancement.
The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that occurred in the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened at the same time and also improved the ventilation of a building.
Oak was used in older and more luxurious buildings. A split bead divides the two sashes and it is vital that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and draughts. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good condition as these assist in operating the window.
2. Energy efficiency
As larger and clearer sheets of glass became available, sash windows started replacing hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass set within rebated timber frames and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.
Sashes were introduced, which resulted in a greater 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 fix the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker.
With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. Without this maintenance they could become drafty. Putty and paint can also cause draughts. You can fix this problem with wood-to-timber products.
The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the notion that old windows are damaged beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a bit of attention. These repairs can be expensive and cause many disruptions in the home. To avoid this homeowners often prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the largest "one-stop shop" installation companies. They can replace and remove all the windows in a home in a single day, eliminating the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much more efficient. They can also be fitted with 'energy-saving' double-glazing, which can achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than those offered by traditional windows made of sash. However double-glazed windows cannot replicate the section and proportions of traditional timber sashes.
3. Security
It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising on their aesthetics. Ironmongery like sash chain, mortice bolts and sash lock could be put in place. They can be positioned in a manner that the window can still be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These windows are typically unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used alongside traditional sash window catches and are required to be replaced with more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the chance of them being hammered out.
Sash-window frames are traditionally made from oak or slow-grown deal. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept, and if it is feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced by the same wood. Many PVC-u firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows throughout a house in just one day, without involving any other tradespeople.
4. Ventilation
When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light to flood 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 that required a brand new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and lead. There were also various kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their beautiful design.
Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good order. A lack of attention to them regularly could lead to:
Sashes that do not move smoothly.
Holes in the frame that allow water to enter and cause decay and damage.
break down of putty, allowing water to penetrate, which could lead to decay of the frame and cill.
Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s & I930s because they were strong and slim, cheap and matched the trend of healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows are as efficient thermally as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and are more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows.
The replacement window industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their traditional windows are dirty, noisy and beyond repair. Many older timber windows can be fixed and utilized for a longer period with minor repairs.
5. Maintenance
The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If wooden windows cambridge do not maintain your sash window, it could lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of the sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to become misaligned and not closing properly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or fixed in the open position and let water and draughts into the property.
Damage to windows made of timber is usually caused by moisture infiltration. This can be avoided by careful painting, regular repairs and the elimination of the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten sections of timber must be removed and the affected area carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same type of timber as the ones that remain. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric that was originally used and is among the most non-invasive methods to treat timber-to-timber rot.
A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to the traditional sanding or staining. The product 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 help prevent the breakage.
It is crucial to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery, like the sash latches and stays. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings, such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided if at all possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.