An Easy-To-Follow Guide To Sash Windows Cambridge
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. However, sash windows can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture, which can cause the wood to swell.
Traditionally, box sash windows used chains or cotton cord and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash window springs are hidden to eliminate this issue.
1. Aesthetics
In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are constructed according to the modular imperial size, timber sash windows can be restored to their original sizes. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and to comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also comes with windows that are superior to the uPVC alternatives.
Sliding windows with sash were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became more affordable and artisans could make larger frames using more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden style in British homes. Since they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.
Early windows were plain glass, but by the 17th century sash windows started to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. These were very expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and cost-effective, they became a part of many period houses.
In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, strong glass that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame to be made larger and, in turn, gave a better view. This was a significant innovation.
Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of the I920s and 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 commonly used type of sash is constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more prestigious buildings and in earlier examples. Repair My Windows And Doors is important to maintain the parting bead which is used to separate the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. It is also crucial that sash pulleys and idler 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 began to replace hinged casements. Plate glass was set into frames made of timber, which were secured with glazing sprigs and putty was then sprayed onto both sides of the frame for watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced led lights.
The introduction of sashes created a need for a much greater variety of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges, knobs and shutters and a variety of fasteners that secured the sashes to their place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or designs that were engraved to identify the maker.
Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. 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. You can fix this problem with wood-to-timber products.
The replacement window industry relies heavily on the perception that old windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs are costly and can cause significant disruption to your home. To prevent this homeowners often prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. These can remove and replace all the windows in a home in a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the entire process much faster. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double glazing to get higher energy ratings than traditional windows with sash. Double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions and sections of historic timber sashes.
3. Security
Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. A variety of ironmongery types are available with sash chains, mortice bolts, and sash locks. These can be installed in a way that the window is able to be opened for ventilation or for cleaning. They are generally unobtrusive, as they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used alongside traditional sash-window catches, which are required to be replaced with more robust models (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the possibility of them being opened by hammering.
Sash-window frames are usually made from oak or slow-grown deal. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept and where possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with 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 were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light into buildings. By the end 18th century, they were modified so that more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also created. The result was a more light appearance and windows with more elegance.
Sash windows were introduced, which required a new range ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a mixture of lead and wood and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their fine design.
Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good shape. Lack of regular attention may result in:
Sashes that do not slide smoothly.
holes in the frame that admit water that can cause decay and damage.
Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or cause cill.
Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s & 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 replacement window industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were decayed and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. However, many old windows made of wood are in good condition and with minor repairs can easily be repaired for many years to come.
5. Maintenance
The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your sash window, it could result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movement within the frame, causing the sash not to close correctly. The sash may also become stuck in an open position, which allows the water and drafts to enter the building.
Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided by regular maintenance, thorough painting and removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified due to the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped away to reveal rotting, soft timber. The sections of timber that are rotten must be removed with care and the affected area should be scarfed or pieced together by using replacements of the same type as the remaining timber. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric used in the first place and is among the most minimally invasive methods of treating wood-to-timber rot.
The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to traditional sanding and staining. It is brushed on the surface of the wood to stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is especially useful for the treatment of pulley cords and sash where it can prevent breakage.
It is important that any ironmongery from the past like sash stays and latches are kept and rehabilitated instead of being replacing them. It is 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 could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.