20 Tips To Help You Be 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 are difficult to open or shut. This is often due moisture which can cause the timber to swell.
Traditionally, windows made of box sash used chains or cotton cords and lead weights to operate. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to eliminate this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes, which are modular, are able to be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows to meet the current energy requirements and conform to conservation area regulations. It also comes with a window that is far superior to the uPVC options.
Sliding sash window frames were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However the production became cheaper and artisans could produce larger frames with larger glass. In the 18th century, sash windows were the dominant design of wood in the majority of British properties. As they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without the need for curtains.
The first windows were made of plain glass however, in the 17th century sash windows started to become more attractive. They were initially made of colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and less expensive, they became a part of numerous period houses.
In cheap double glazing cambridge was possible to make large, strong glass that did not need support bars. This allowed the frame size to be enlarged more, which in turn meant more of a view out of the window. This was an important innovation.
Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and the beginning of I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously and also improved the ventilation of the building.
The most common type of sash is constructed from slow grown deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more prestigious buildings and in earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes, and it is important that this is well maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good working order as they aid in operating the window.
2. Energy efficiency
As clearer and larger glass sheets became available, sash windows started replacing hinged casements. They were coated with plate glass that was placed within timber frames with rebates and then pinned with glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This kind of glazing gradually superseded led lights.
The introduction of sashes created an need for a greater variety of ironmongery, with the 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 to hold the sashes in place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engraved patterns that identified the maker.
Sash windows can be very energy-efficient with regular maintenance. But, if you don't maintain them, they can become draughty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber solutions.
The replacement window industry relies heavily on the belief that older windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs can be expensive and involve substantial disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows using PVC-u from a huge "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and avoiding the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. They are also available with energy-saving double-glazing to get higher energy efficiency ratings than are possible with traditional windows with sash. However, these double-glazed units cannot reproduce the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.
3. Security
It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be installed. They can be fitted in a manner that the window can be opened for ventilation and cleaning. They are usually discrete since they are made to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used alongside traditional sash window catches, which are required to be replaced with more robust versions (such ones that have double screws) or spring levers to decrease the risk of them being hammered open.
Sash-window frames were traditionally made from slow-growing deal or, in more elegant homes they were made from oak. If the glazing bars are intact and in good condition, they should be kept. If feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced with wood that matches. Many PVC-U firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can take down and replace windows throughout a house in just one day, without involving any other tradespeople.
4. Ventilation
When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light into buildings. At the end of the 18th century they were altered to allow more light into rooms and bigger glazing panes started to be manufactured. The result was a lighter appearance, and windows that had a higher level of elegance than they had before.
The introduction of sash windows also required the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture 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.
Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good order. Inattention to maintenance can lead to:
Sashes that do not move effortlessly.
holes in the frame allow water that can cause decay and damage.
break down of the putty and allow water penetration that could lead to decay of the frame and cill.
In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity because they were strong, slim and cheap, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as efficient thermally as double-glazed PVC-u windows and can be more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.
The window replacement industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. However, many older windows made of timber are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be repaired for many years to come.
5. Maintenance
A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your sash window, it could lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to become damaged. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to move out of alignment and not closing properly. The sash may also become stuck in the open position, which allows water and draughts into the property.
Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented with careful painting, regular repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified due to the wavy appearance of the paint that can be stripped to reveal soft, rotting wood. Any rotten timber sections must be removed and the affected area should be carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made of the same type of wood as the ones that remain. This repair method increases the amount of fabric that was originally used and is among the most non-invasive methods to treat wood-to-timber rot.
The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to the traditional method of staining and sanding. The product is brushed on to the surface of the timber to help stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful for the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which can help prevent breakage.
It is important to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery, such as sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without harming the the original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.