7 Things About Sash Windows Cambridge You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
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 get stuck and are difficult to open and close. This is typically due to moisture which can cause the wood to swell.
Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilized chains, cotton cords or lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to solve this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes, which are modular, can be restored to original dimensions. This allows the restoration to be in line with modern energy requirements while still complying with conservation area regulations. It also offers an option that is superior to uPVC options.
Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became cheaper and artisans could produce larger frames with greater glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Because they were simple to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.
The early windows were made of glass that was plain however, by the 17th Century the sash windows began to become more ornamental. They started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at the beginning but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became a common feature in many period houses.
In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, strong glass that did not need supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to be increased even further and this in turn allowed for a wider view out of the window. This was an important innovation.
Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.
Oak was used in older examples and for more prestigious buildings. A parting bead separates the two sashes and it is essential that it is well maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good working order as they help to operate the window.
2. Energy efficiency
As larger and clearer sheets of glass became available, sash window began to replace hinged casements. They were coated with plate glass that was placed within timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to make them watertight. This kind of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights.
The introduction of sashes created a need for a much larger variety of ironmongery with the basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners that secured the sashes in place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and designs that were engraved to identify the maker.
Sash windows can be very energy-efficient with regular maintenance. However, without this maintenance they can become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can also cause draughts. This can be fixed by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.
The industry of replacement windows is based on the assumption that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, but they can be easily maintained with just a little care. Repairs can be costly and cause a lot of disruption in the home. Many homeowners choose to replace their windows using PVC-u from a large "one-stop shop" company for installation. These can remove and replace all the windows in a home in just one day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much quicker. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving' double glazing to achieve higher energy ratings than the traditional windows made of sash. Double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions and section of sashes from old timber.
3. Security
Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their aesthetics. Many types of ironmongery can be installed with sash chains, mortice bolts, and locks for sash. These can be installed so that the window remains capable of being opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. These products are often not noticeable since they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. These should be replaced by more robust models like ones that have double screws or sprung levers, to minimize the chance of being hit with hammers.
Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow grown deal or, in the more luxurious homes made of oak. If the glazing bars are intact, they should be retained. Where it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can remove and replace windows on an entire home in a single day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.
4. Ventilation
When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light into structures. In the 18th century, they were modified so that more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a more streamlined appearance, and windows with a higher degree of elegance than before.
The introduction of sash windows also required the creation of a new line of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, while later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a mixture of wood and lead, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be retained and cleaned down so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.
To keep them in good condition, wooden windows require regular maintenance. Lack of attention to them regularly can lead to:
Sashes that do not move smoothly.
holes in the frame that allow water causing damage and decay.
break down of window installation cambridge , allowing water to penetrate, which could lead to decay of the frame and cill.
Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s and I930s due to their strength and slim, cheap and complemented the trend for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as efficient thermally as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and can be more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows.
The replacement window industry has done a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows are rotten, draughty and beyond economic repair. Many old windows made of timber can be fixed and used for many more years with minor repairs.
5. Maintenance
The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it could cause the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movements within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close properly. The sash can also be stuck in the open position, which allows the water and drafts to enter the property.
Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to timber windows. This can be prevented by regular maintenance, thorough painting and removing the source of dampness. Wet rot can be identified due to the wavy appearance of the paint that can be stripped to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any timber that is rotting must be removed and the affected area should be carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made from the same type of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximises the amount of fabric left, and is among the least invasive methods for treating decay caused by timber.
A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to the traditional process of sanding or staining. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which can help prevent breakage.
It is important that any historic ironmongery such as sash stay and latches are kept and rehabilitated instead of being replacing them. It can be difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided whenever feasible as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.