15 Reasons To Not Be Ignoring 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 that can cause the timber to expand.
Box sash windows were historically operated with chains or cotton cords, as well as lead weights. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to address this problem.
1. Aesthetics
Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes and are modular, are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows to comply with current energy standards and to comply with conservation area regulations. It also provides windows that are superior to the uPVC alternatives.
Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally intended for large structures or public buildings. However the production became more affordable and artisans could produce larger frames with more glass. In the late 18th century Sash windows were the most popular wooden design in most British properties. Since they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without the need for curtains.
The first windows were made of plain glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows started to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were costly at the beginning but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became an integral feature in many homes of the period.
By the 19th century it was possible to create large, sturdy glass that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame to be made bigger and, in turn, gave an improved view. This was an important improvement.
window companies cambridge repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk of the double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that occurred at the end of the I920s and the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s.
The most common kind of sash is made from slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was used in the more prestigious buildings and in earlier examples. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes and it is vital that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and draughts. It is also crucial that sash pulleys and idler wheels are in good working order as they assist in operating the window.
2. Energy efficiency
As larger and clearer sheets of glass became available, sash window began to replace hinged casements. Plate glass was set into frames of timber that were rebated, then secured with glazing sprigs and putty was then sprayed onto the frame's two sides for watertightness. This type of glazing gradually superseded led lights.
Sashes were introduced, which led to increased demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges as well as various fasteners used to secure the sashes. These were often decorated in patterns, inscriptions and engravings to identify the maker.
Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. If they are not maintained they could become noisy. Putty and paint can cause draughts. This can be corrected making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.
The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the perception that old windows are beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows can be costly and cause significant disruption to your home. Many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u from a large "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and avoiding the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than traditional windows with sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to reproduce the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.
3. Security
Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their style. Many types of ironmongery can be installed, including sash chains, mortice bolts, and locks for sash. These can be installed in a way so that the window can be open for ventilation and cleaning. These are typically minimal in appearance, as they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used with traditional sash window catches. They should be replaced by more robust versions, such as those that incorporate double screws, or sprung levers in order to reduce the chance of being struck by hammers.
Sash-window frames are usually made of oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are intact, they should be retained. If it is feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced with wood that matches. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop installation service. They can take down and replace windows throughout a home in one day, without involving any other tradespeople.
4. Ventilation
Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a huge amount of light into buildings. By the end 18th century, they had been modified so that more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also created. The result was a more streamlined appearance, and windows that had a higher level of elegance than they had before.
Sash windows were introduced and required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and lead. There were also different kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be retained and cleaned down so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.
To ensure they remain in good condition, wooden windows must be maintained. A lack of regular attention could lead to:
Sashes that don't slide smoothly.
Holes in the frame which allow water to get in and cause decay and damage.
break down of putty allowing water penetration, which could cause decay in the frame and cill.
Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s & I930s due to their strength and slim, cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash windows are just as effective as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.
The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their windows are dirty, noisy and beyond 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 result in the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars, and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of the sashes could also result in structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to be misaligned and not closing properly. The sash can also be stuck in the open position, allowing the water and drafts to enter the building.
Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided by regular maintenance, thorough painting and removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified due to the wavy appearance of the existing paint which can be stripped away to reveal soft, rotting wood. The sections of timber that are rotten should be carefully removed and the affected area should be scarfed together or glued together with replacements of the exact kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric left, and is among the least invasive ways of treating decay caused by timber.
The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to traditional sanding and staining. This is brushed onto the surface of the wood to help stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is especially useful for treating sash and pulley cords, where it can prevent breakage.
It is crucial to restore and not replace any old ironmongery, such as the sash latches and stays. It is difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is 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.