20 Fun Facts About Sash Windows Cambridge
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of how they appear. Sash windows can become stuck and be difficult to open and close. This is usually due to moisture which can cause the wood to swell.
Traditionally, window boxes used chains or cotton cord and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to solve this problem.
1. Aesthetics
Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed according to imperial sizes that are modular the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original sizes. This lets the restoration meet the current energy standards while ensuring compliance with conservation area regulations. It also provides windows that have a superior appearance than uPVC alternatives.
Sliding windows with sash were initially only found in large buildings or public buildings, though the production process became less expensive and craftsmen 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. Because they were simple to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.
Early windows were simple glass, but in the 17th century sash windows started to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were costly at first, but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were commonplace in many historic homes.
In the 19th century, it was possible to manufacture large, strong glass that didn't require support bars. This allowed for the frame to be made larger which, in turn, provided an improved view. This was a significant advancement.
Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s.
Oak was used for older and more luxurious buildings. It is important to maintain the separation bead that divides the sashes. This will help prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are crucial for the proper operation of the window.
2. Energy efficiency
Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets became available. Glass plates were set in frames of timber that were rebated, then secured with glazing sprigs and putty was then sprayed onto both sides of the frame for watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually superseded led lights.
The introduction of sashes created a need for a much greater variety of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops, shutter hinges and knobs as well as a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes in place. These were usually decorated with designs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker.
With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. However, if they are not maintained, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty may cause draughts too. This can be corrected making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.
The replacement window industry relies on the assumption that older windows are old and beyond repair, while they can be maintained with a bit of care. Repairs can be expensive and cause lots of disruption to the home. To prevent cambridge window company www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows made by one of the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and eliminating the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than traditional sash window. These double-glazed windows aren't able to replicate the proportions and sections of sashes from old timber.
3. Security
Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their style. Ironmongery such as sash chain, mortice bolts, and sash lock can be installed. They can be fitted to ensure that the window is still capable of being opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. These windows are typically discrete since they are made to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catches. These are best replaced with more robust versions, such as ones that have double screws, or sprung levers to decrease the chance of being struck by hammers.
Sash-window frames were constructed from slow grown deal or, in the more prestigious houses, from oak. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept, and, if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. PVC-u companies often offer a one stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows across a home in one day, without the need to engage other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers.
4. Ventilation
When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light into the buildings. By the end 18th century, they had been adapted so that even more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also created. The result was a more light appearance and windows that were more elegant.
Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, whereas later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a combination of wood and lead, and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their exquisite design.
To ensure they remain in good shape, timber windows must be maintained. A lack of attention to them regularly could cause:
Sashes that do not move smoothly.
Holes in the frame that allow water to get in and cause decay and damage.
Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or cill.
In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows gained popularity due to their strength slim and inexpensive and were in line with the trend for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash window are just as effective as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.
The industry of replacement windows has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their traditional windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. The truth is that a lot of older windows made of timber are in good condition and with minor repairs could easily be serviceable for many years to come.
5. Maintenance
A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your window's sash, it could lead to the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of the sashes may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to become misaligned and unable to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or slammed into an open position, which can let water and draughts enter the structure.
Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by moisture infiltration. This can be prevented by careful painting, regular repairs and the elimination of the cause of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped away to reveal soft, rotting timber. Any rotten timber sections should be cut out and the affected area should be carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same kind of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric that is left and is among the least invasive methods for treating decay caused by timber.
The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to traditional staining and sanding. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is especially beneficial for treating pulley cords and sash which can stop breakage.
It is important that any old ironmongery such as sash stays and latches are kept and restored instead of replaced. It can be difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also advised that modern fittings made of aluminium, such as sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.