20 Resources That'll Make You More Efficient At Sash Windows Cambridge
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and become difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture, which can cause the wood to expand.
Box sash windows were traditionally operated with chains or cotton cords, as well as lead weights. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to eliminate this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes and are modular, can be restored to their original size. This lets the restoration be in line with modern energy requirements while still complying with conservation area regulations. It also gives windows that have a superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.
Sliding windows with sash were initially only found in large buildings or public buildings, however this changed as production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. By the late 18th century Sash windows were the most popular wooden style in a majority of British properties. As they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without the need for 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 were very expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and less expensive, they became a part of many period houses.
In the 19th century, it was possible to produce large, strong glasses that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame to be made bigger, which in turn gave the viewer a better view. This was an important innovation.
Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.
Oak was used for older examples and for more prestigious buildings. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes and it is important that this is maintained in order to avoid rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are crucial to the operation of 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 sides for watertightness. This form of glass gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.
The introduction of sashes resulted in the need for a wider range of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners used to keep the sashes into place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engraved patterns that identified the maker.
Sash windows are energy-efficient with regular maintenance. Without this maintenance, they can become noisy. Putty and paint can cause draughts too. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber solutions.
The replacement window industry relies on the perception that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, whereas they are able to be maintained with a little attention. These repairs can be expensive and cause lots of disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a huge "one-stop shop" installation company. They can replace all windows in a house in a single day, saving time and eliminating the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double-glazing to attain more energy efficient ratings than a traditional sash window. However these double-glazed units are unable to reproduce the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.
3. Security
It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising on their aesthetics. Ironmongery such as sash chain, mortice bolts, and sash lock can be installed. These can be installed so that the window is able to be opened for ventilation or cleaning. These products are usually unobtrusive, as they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used alongside traditional sash-window catchers that are required to be replaced with more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the risk of them being hammered out.
Sash-window frames were constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more prestigious houses they were made from oak. If glazing bars have survived, they should be preserved, and, if feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. Many PVC-U firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can remove and replace windows on an entire home in one day, without involving any other tradespeople.
4. Ventilation
Sash windows were introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a large amount of light to enter buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they had been adapted so that even more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also made. The result was a lighter look and windows with more elegance.
The introduction of sash windows also demanded the creation of a new line of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, whereas later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their exquisite design.
Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good condition. Lack of attention to them regularly could lead to:
Sashes that do not move easily.
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 the cill.
In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity because they were strong slim and inexpensive and also matched the fashion for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash windows are just as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.
The industry of replacement windows has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their traditional windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. repairmywindowsanddoors is that a lot of older windows made of timber are in good shape and with minor repairs could easily be serviceable for many years to be.
5. Maintenance
A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly can lead to sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes can also cause structural movement in the frame, which can cause the sash to not close properly. The sash may also become stuck in the open position, which allows water and draughts into the property.
Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by water infiltration. This can be avoided by regular maintenance as well as thorough painting, and then removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, decaying wood. Any timber that is rotting must be removed and the affected part carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made of the same type of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric retained and is among the least invasive methods for treating decay of timber to timber.
A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to traditional staining or sanding. This is brushed onto the surface of the wood to stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which help prevent breakage.
It is important to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, like the sash latches and stays. These items can be very difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings, such as chain stays and sash lifts should be avoided if feasible as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made of timber.