An Easy-To-Follow Guide To Sash Windows Cambridge
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of how they appear. Sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or shut. This is usually due moisture that can cause the wood to expand.
Box sash windows were traditionally operated with chains or cotton cords as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to address this problem.
1. Aesthetics
Unlike PVC-u windows that are constructed according to the modular imperial size Timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This lets the restoration be in line with modern energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation regulations for the area. It also offers a window with a far superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.
Sliding sash window frames were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became more affordable and artisans could create larger frames using larger glass. In the late 18th century Sash windows were the most popular design of wood in the majority of British properties. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light in rooms without the use of curtains.
The first windows were made of plain glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows began to become more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time but as glass production improved and cheaper they were a common feature in numerous period houses.
In the 19th century, it became possible to produce large, sturdy glasses that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to be enlarged further and this in turn gave a better view from the window. This was an important innovation.
The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another significant improvement that came about towards the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s.
The most common type of sash is constructed from slow grown deal (pine) but oak was utilized in more luxurious buildings and in earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes and it is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are vital to the operation of the window.
2. Energy efficiency
Sash windows replaced hinged cases as clearer and larger sheets were made available. They were made of plate glass, placed within timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.
The introduction of sashes resulted in the need for a greater variety of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers, shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners that secured the sashes in the right place. These were often decorated in motifs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker.
Sash windows are energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. Without this maintenance they could become drafty. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber products.
The replacement window industry relies heavily on the notion that old windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a little attention. These repairs can be costly and cause many disruptions in the home. To avoid this, many homeowners opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one the many "one-stop shop" installation companies. These can remove and replace all the windows in a house in just one day, avoiding the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen, making the whole process much more efficient. They are also available with 'energy saving' double-glazing, which can achieve more energy efficient ratings than are possible with traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions and sections of historic timber sashes.
3. Keep Reading is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their appearance. Many types of ironmongery can be fitted with sash chains, mortice bolts, and locks for sash. These can be installed in a manner that the window can still be open for ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually not noticeable, since they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. These are best replaced with more robust versions, such as ones that have double screws, or sprung levers, to minimize the chance of being struck by hammers.
Sash-window frames are usually made of oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept and where it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by matching wood. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows across a house in a day without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from different suppliers.
4. Ventilation
When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a substantial amount of light into the buildings. By the end of the 18th century, they were adapted to allow more light into rooms and larger glazing panes began to be manufactured. The result was a lighter appearance and windows that were more elegant.
The introduction of sash windows also necessitated the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and lead. There were also various kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be maintained and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.
Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good order. A lack of regular attention can result in:
Sashes that do not slide easily.
Holes in the frame that allow water to get in and cause damage and decay.
break down of putty, 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, and also because they were cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows are as efficient thermally as double-glazed PVC-u windows and are more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows.
The replacement window industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten drafty, noisy and beyond repair. Many older timber windows can be fixed and used for a long time with minor repairs.
5. Maintenance
The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can result in sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of sashes can also result in structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to become misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or fixed in an open position and let water and draughts in the property.
Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by water entry. This can be prevented by thorough painting, periodic repairs, and removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified by the wavy look of the paint, which can be stripped away to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any rotten sections of timber must be removed and the affected area should be carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same kind of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric left, and is among the least invasive methods of treating timber-to-timber decay.
The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to the traditional method of sanding and staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to stop breakage.
It is essential that any historic ironmongery such as sash stay and latches be kept and restored instead of replaced. These items are difficult to replace without damaging the quality of the 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 to timber frames and sashes.