20 Things You Must Know About Sash Windows Cambridge
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and are difficult to open and close. This is usually due moisture which can cause the wood to swell.
Traditionally, windows made of box sash used chains, cotton cords or lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to solve this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Unlike PVC-u windows that are made according to the modular imperial size the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original size. This lets the restoration meet modern day energy requirements while complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also offers windows that are superior to the uPVC options.
Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally intended for large structures or public buildings. However this changed as production became cheaper and artisans could create larger frames using larger glass. By the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant wooden design in most British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the use of curtains.
The first windows were made of clear glass However, in the 17th century sash windows started to be more decorative. They started with coloured glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were costly initially, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they became a common feature in many period houses.
In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, strong glasses that didn't require support bars. This allowed for the frame to be enlarged which, in turn, provided the viewer a better view. This was a significant advancement.
The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made in the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. click through the up coming website page allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously, and gave improved ventilation to buildings.
Oak was used in older examples and for more prestigious buildings. It is essential to keep the parting bead which separates the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good condition as these assist in operating the window.
2. Energy efficiency
As larger and clearer sheets of glass became available, sash window started replacing hinged casements. Plate glass was placed in frames made of timber, which were which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was sprayed on both sides of the frame for watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced led lights.
The introduction of sashes created the need for a greater variety of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops, shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners that secured the sashes into the right place. These were usually decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker.
With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they can become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of putty and paint. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber solutions.
The replacement window industry relies on the belief that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, while they can be maintained with a little attention. These repairs can be expensive and cause many disruptions in the home. Many homeowners choose to replace their windows using PVC-u from a 'one-stop shop' installation company. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and avoiding the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving' double glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.
3. Security
It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their style. There are many types of ironmongery that can be fitted including sash chains mortice bolts, and locks for sash. They can be fitted to ensure that the window is capable of being opened to allow ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically discrete since they are made to work with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers that should be replaced with more robust versions (such ones that have double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the possibility of them being opened by hammering.
Sash-window frames are usually constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are still intact and in good condition, they should be kept. If possible, the timber cills should be replaced by wood that matches. Many PVC-U firms offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows throughout a home in a single day, without involving any other tradespeople.
4. Ventilation
Sash windows were introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a significant amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were modified to let even more light into rooms, and bigger glazing panes started to be manufactured. 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. Early pulleys could be made out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of leaded and wood. There were also various kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. These ironmongery pieces should be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their exquisite design.
Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. Lack of regular attention may lead to:
sashes that no longer slide smoothly.
Holes in the frame which allow water to enter and cause damage and decay.
break down of putty, allowing water to penetrate, which could cause decay in the frame and cill.
Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s and I930s because they were sturdy and slim, cheap and matched the trend of healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash windows are just as effective as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.
The window replacement industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. Many old timber windows can be fixed and used for a long time with minor repairs.
5. Maintenance
Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it could result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It could also cause paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to move out of alignment and not closing properly. The sash may also become stuck in its open position, which allows water and draughts to enter the building.
Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented by regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the source of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy look of the existing paint which can be removed to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any rotten timber sections should be cut out and the affected area should be carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same kind of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric left, and is among the least invasive ways of treating decay of timber to timber.
A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to traditional staining or sanding. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly useful to treat sash and pulley cords, which can help prevent breakage.
It is important to restore and not replace any old ironmongery such as the sash latches and stays. It can be difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium fittings, such as sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.