9 Signs You're The Sash Windows Cambridge Expert
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can become stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is often due moisture that can cause the timber to swell.
Box sash windows were historically operated using chains, cotton cords and weights made of lead. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to address this problem.
1. Aesthetics
Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes, which are modular, are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration to meet modern day energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation areas regulations. It also offers windows with a more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives.
Sliding sash window frames were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However, this changed when production became more affordable and artisans could make larger frames using greater glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden style in British homes. Since they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.
The first windows were made of plain glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows began to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were costly at first, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they became a common feature in many homes of the period.
In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, sturdy glasses that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame size to be enlarged further, which allowed for a wider view out of the window. This was a significant advancement.
The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another significant improvement that came about in the I920s and beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash is another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.
The most common kind of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was used in the more prestigious buildings and in earlier examples. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes. It is essential that it is well maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are vital for the proper operation of the window.
2. Energy efficiency
As larger and clearer glass sheets became available, sash window started replacing hinged casements. Glass plates were set in frames made of timber, which were secured with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to the frame's sides to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually superseded led lights.
The introduction of sashes led to a need for a much greater variety of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs as well as a range of fasteners to hold the sashes in place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engraved patterns that identified the maker.
Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of putty and paint. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber products.
The industry of replacement windows is based on the assumption that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, whereas they can be easily maintained with a bit of care. Repairs can be costly and cause many disruptions in the home. Many homeowners opt 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 house in a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much quicker. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than a traditional sash window. However, these double-glazed units cannot reproduce the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.
3. Security
Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their aesthetics. Ironmongery like mortice bolts, sash chain and sash locks can be used. These can be installed so that the window is capable of being opened to allow ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash window catches and must be replaced by more robust versions (such ones that have double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the risk of them being hammered open.
Sash-window frames were constructed from slow grown deal or, in more prestigious houses made of oak. If the glazing bars remain in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. If it is possible, the timber cills should be replaced by wood that is in line with. PVC-U companies usually provide a one-stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on a complete home in one day, without the need to engage other tradespeople or coordinate visits from different suppliers.
4. Ventilation
When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a significant amount of light into structures. At the end of the 18th century, they were modified to let even more light into rooms and bigger glazing panes started to be made. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with a greater level of elegance than they had before.
The introduction of sash windows also demanded the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of leaded and wood. There were also different kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. visit the up coming post need to be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design.
To ensure they remain in good shape, timber windows need to be maintained. A lack of attention to them regularly could result in:
Sashes that do not move easily.
Holes in the frame which allow water to enter and cause damage and decay.
break down of putty, allowing water penetration, which can lead to decay in the frame and cill.
In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their durability slim and inexpensive and also matched the fashion for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient thermally as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.
The replacement window industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed, drafty and beyond economical repair. Many old windows made of timber are repairable and can be utilized for a longer period with minor repairs.
5. Maintenance
The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly could result in the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars, and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of the sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to move out of alignment and in a position that it is not able to close properly. The sash could also get stuck in its open position, which allows the water and drafts to enter the building.
Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by moisture penetration. This can be avoided by regular maintenance, thorough painting and removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy appearance of the existing paint which can be stripped to reveal soft, rotting wood. The sections of timber that are rotten must be removed with care and the affected part should be scarfed together or pieced together with replacements of the exact kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric used in the first place and is among the least invasive ways to treat wood-to-timber rot.
A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to the traditional process of sanding or staining. It is brushed on the surface of the wood to help stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is especially useful to treat sash and pulley cords, which can stop breakage.
It is essential to preserve and not replace any old ironmongery such as sash latches and stays. They can be extremely difficult to replace without damaging the the original design. It is also recommended that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.