15 Reasons Not To Ignore Sash Windows Cambridge
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of the way they look. Sash windows can become stuck and become difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture that can cause the wood to swell.
Box sash windows were previously operated with chains or cotton cords, as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to solve this problem.
1. Aesthetics
In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are manufactured according to imperial sizes that are modular Timber sash windows can be restored to their original sizes. This lets the restoration meet modern day energy requirements while still complying with conservation area regulations. It also gives a window with a far superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.
Sliding windows with sash were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However the production became cheaper and artisans could create larger frames using more glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the use of curtains.
Early windows were plain glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows were becoming more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time but as glass production became more efficient and cheaper they were a common feature in many of the period homes.
In the 19th century, it became possible to make large, sturdy glasses that did not require support bars. This allowed for the frame to be made bigger and, in turn, gave the viewer a better view. This was an important innovation.
The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another significant improvement that came about at the end of the 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.
The most popular kind of sash is made from slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was used in the more prestigious buildings and in earlier examples. It is essential to keep the separation bead that divides the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers also are crucial for the proper operation of the window.
2. Energy efficiency
As clearer and larger sheets of glass were made available, sash windows began to replace hinged casements. They were made of plate glass, placed within timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This type 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, sash stoppers, shutter hinges and handles and various fasteners used to fix the sashes. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and engraved patterns that identified the maker.
With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. However, if they are not maintained, they can become draughty and let in cold air. Paint and putty may cause draughts too. This can be remedied by using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.
The industry of replacement windows is based on the belief that older windows are old and beyond repair, whereas they are able to be maintained with a bit of care. However, these repairs are costly and can cause significant disruption to your home. To prevent this, many homeowners choose 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 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 sash window. However these double-glazed units are unable to duplicate 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. Many types of ironmongery are available with sash chains, mortice bolts and sash locks. These can be installed to ensure that the window is open to allow ventilation or cleaning. They are generally minimal in appearance, as they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. These are best replaced with more robust versions like ones that have double screws, or sprung levers in order to reduce the chance of being struck by hammers.
Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow grown deal or, in more prestigious houses, from oak. When glazing bars have survived they should be kept, and where possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. PVC-u companies often provide a one-stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on an entire house in a day without the need to involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers.
4. Ventilation
Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a significant amount of light into buildings. In the 18th century, they were modified so that more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also made. The result was a much more streamlined appearance, and windows with a higher quality of design than before.
The introduction of sash windows also demanded an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of leaded and wood. There were also a variety of types of knobs and shutter hinges. The ironmongery components should be retained and cleaned down to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.
To keep wooden windows and doors cambridge repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk in good condition, timber windows need to be maintained. A lack of regular attention can lead to:
Sashes that do not slide effortlessly.
Holes in the frame which allow water to get in and cause damage and decay.
The putty can be soaked by water and cause decay to the frame or cause cill.
In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows gained popularity due to their strength, slim and cheap and also matched the fashion for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as efficient in thermal efficiency as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and may be more appealing 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 old, dirty, and beyond economic repair. The reality is that many older windows made of wood are in good shape and, with minor repairs, could easily be maintained for years to be.
5. Maintenance
Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your window's sash, it could lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It could also cause paint and putty deteriorate. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movement within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close correctly. The sash can also be stuck in an open position, allowing water and draughts into the property.
Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented with careful painting, regular repairs, and removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten timber sections should be cut off and the affected part carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made from the same type of wood as the ones that remain. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric that was originally used and is among the most non-invasive methods to treat wood-to-timber rot.
A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to traditional process of sanding or staining. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is particularly useful in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys where it can help to prevent the breakage.
It is important to restore and not replace any old ironmongery such as sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without damaging the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that fittings made of aluminum like sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.