20 Fun Facts 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 often due moisture, which can cause the timber to swell.
Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilised chains, cotton cords or weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to overcome this problem.
1. Aesthetics
Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes, which are modular, are able to be restored to original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows to meet the current energy requirements and comply with conservation area regulations. It also offers windows with a superior appearance than uPVC alternatives.
Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames using greater glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the need for curtains.
Early windows were simple glass, but in the 17th century, sash windows were becoming more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the time but as glass production improved and less expensive, they became a feature of numerous period houses.
In the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, sturdy glass that did not need support bars. This allowed the frame to be enlarged which, in turn, provided a better view. This was a significant innovation.
The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that was made towards the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously and also improved the ventilation of the building.
The most popular type of sash is constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more luxurious buildings and in earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes and it is essential that it is well maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are also vital to the operation of the window.
2. Energy efficiency
As larger and clearer sheets of glass became available, sash window started replacing hinged casements. They were made of plate glass, set in timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This type of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights.
Sashes were introduced, which resulted in increased demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges and various fasteners used to fix the sashes. They were often decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engravings to identify the maker.
With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. 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. This can be corrected using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.
The market for replacement windows rests on the assumption that old windows are damaged and beyond economical repair, whereas they are able to be maintained with a little 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 of the large "one-stop shop" installation companies. They can replace and remove all windows in an entire house within a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the entire process much quicker. They can also be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing, which can achieve greater energy efficiency than those offered by traditional sash windows. However these double-glazed units are unable to replicate the section and proportions of historic timber sashes.
3. Security
Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their style. Ironmongery such as sash chain, mortice bolts and sash lock could be used. They can be fitted in a way so that the window is able to be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These are typically not noticeable, since they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. These should be replaced by more robust versions, such as those with double screws, or sprung levers in order to reduce the risk of being struck by hammers.
Sash-window frames were made from slow-growing deal or, in more elegant homes made of oak. When glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and, if possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. PVC-u companies often provide a one-stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on a complete house in a day without the need to involve other tradespeople or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers.
4. Ventilation
Sash windows were introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a huge amount of light to enter buildings. In the 18th century, they had been modified so that more light could be let into the rooms. upvc locksmith cambridge www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk were also created. The result was a lighter appearance and windows that had a higher quality of design than before.
Sash windows were introduced and required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, later Victorian ones were made from brass or a combination of lead and wood, and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be retained and cleaned down to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.
To ensure they remain in good shape, timber windows must be maintained. A lack of attention to them regularly could lead to:
Sashes that do not move easily.
holes in the frame that admit water causing damage and decay.
The putty can be soaked by water and cause decay to the frame or cause cill.
In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their durability slim and affordable, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient thermally as double-glazed PVC-u windows and may be more appealing than the modern sleek design of casement windows.
The industry of replacement windows has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were decayed, drafty and beyond economical repair. Many old windows made of timber can be repaired and used for a long time with minor repairs.
5. Maintenance
The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your window's sash, it could result in the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It could also cause paint and putty deteriorate. The removal of sashes can also cause structural movement in the frame, causing the sash to not close correctly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or slammed into an open position, which can let water and draughts enter the structure.
Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be prevented with thorough painting, periodic repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut off and the affected area should be carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same type of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric that was originally used and is among the most non-invasive methods to treat the rot that occurs between timber and timber.
The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to the traditional method of staining and sanding. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly useful to treat pulley cords and sash which can help prevent breakage.
It is crucial to restore and not replace any old ironmongery such as sash latches and stays. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings such as sash lifts and chain stays should be avoided if possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.