Five Essential Tools Everyone Is In The Sash Windows Cambridge Industry Should Be Making Use Of
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows may get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture which can cause the wood to expand.
Traditionally, windows made of box sash used chains or cotton cords and lead weights to operate. Modern sash window springs are hidden to eliminate this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Contrary to PVC-u windows which are manufactured according to the modular imperial size the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original sizes. This lets the restoration meet modern day energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation area regulations. It also gives windows that have a superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.
Sliding windows with sash were initially only found in large buildings or public buildings, though this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. By the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant wooden design in most British homes. As they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without the need for curtains.
The first windows were made of glass that was plain, but in the 17th century the sash windows began to become more ornamental. They began with colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were expensive at the time but as glass production improved and cheaper they were a common feature in many of the period homes.
In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, strong glasses that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame size to increase more, which in turn meant more of a view from the window. This was a significant advancement.
Another significant 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 was 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 and more luxurious buildings. It is important to maintain the parting bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will help prevent rattles and draughts. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good working order as they aid in operating the window.
2. Energy efficiency
As larger and clearer glass sheets became available, sash windows started replacing hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass set within rebated timber frames and secured with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to make them watertight. This kind of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights.
Sashes were introduced, which led to an increase in demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers, shutter hinges and handles, and a variety of fasteners to secure the sashes. They were often decorated with designs, inscriptions, and engravings to identify the maker.
With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. If they are not maintained, they can become noisy. Paint and putty can cause draughts too. This issue can be fixed with wood-to-timber products.
The replacement window industry relies on the assumption that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, whereas they can be easily maintained with just a little care. Repairs can be expensive and cause a lot of disruption in the home. To avoid this homeowners, many 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 windows in a house in just one day, avoiding the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much quicker. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving double-glazing to attain more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed windows aren't able to replicate the proportions and sections of historic timber sashes.
3. Security
Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their aesthetics. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain and sash locks can be used. These can be installed to ensure that the window is open to allow ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically discrete since they are made to work with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. These are best replaced with more robust models, such as those that incorporate double screws or sprung levers to decrease the possibility of being hit with hammers.
Sash-window frames were constructed from slow grown deal or, in more prestigious houses made of oak. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept and where it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. PVC-U companies usually provide a one-stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on an entire house in a day without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from different suppliers.
4. Ventilation
Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a significant amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. By the end of the 18th century, they were altered to allow even more light into rooms, and larger glazing panes began to be manufactured. The result was a more light appearance and windows with more elegance.
aluminium front doors cambridge were introduced that required a brand new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of wood and leaded. There were also various kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their fine design.
To keep them in good condition, wooden windows must be maintained. Lack of regular attention may lead to:
Sashes that no longer slide easily.
holes in the frame that allow water that can cause decay and damage.
Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or cause cill.
In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows gained popularity due to their strength slim and inexpensive, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. However, research has proven 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 replacement window industry has done a lot to convince homeowners that their windows are rotten, draughty and beyond repair. Many old timber windows can be fixed and utilized for a longer period with minor repairs.
5. Maintenance
The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can lead to 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 movements within the frame, causing the sash to not close properly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or slammed into an open position and this can let water and draughts in the structure.
The damage to timber windows is often caused by water infiltration. This can be avoided by regular repairs by thorough painting and eliminating the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. The sections that are rotting must be removed with care and the affected part should be snared together or pieced together by using replacements of the same kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair maximizes the amount original fabric and is one of least invasive ways to treat the rot that occurs between timber and timber.
The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is an alternative to traditional sanding and staining. This is brushed onto the surface of the wood to stabilise and protect it from further damage. It is especially useful for treating pulley cords and sash which can stop breakage.
It is important that any old ironmongery like sash stays and latches are kept and restored instead of replacing them. These items can be very difficult to replace without harming the the original design. It is also recommended that modern aluminium fittings, such as sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.