Ten Reasons To Hate People Who Can't Be Disproved Sash Windows Cambridge
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture, which can cause the wood to expand.
Box sash windows were traditionally operated with chains or cotton cords as well as lead weights. Modern sash window springs are hidden to avoid this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Contrary to PVC-u windows which are made according to the modular imperial size, timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and conform to conservation area regulations. It also comes with an option that is superior to the uPVC options.
Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, however this changed as production became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden style in British homes. As they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without the need for curtains.
The first windows were made of plain glass, but by the 17th Century sash windows started to be more decorative. They started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and less expensive, they became a part of many of the period homes.
In the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, sturdy glass that did not need supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be enlarged and, in turn, gave an improved view. This was an important innovation.
Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and gave improved ventilation to buildings.
cambridge double glazing of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was utilized in more expensive buildings as well as in some earlier examples. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes, and it is essential that it is well maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are also essential to the functioning of the window.
2. Energy efficiency
Sash windows replaced hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets were made available. They were coated with plate glass that was placed within timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to make them watertight. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.
Sashes were introduced, which resulted in an increase in demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers, shutter hinges and handles as well as various fasteners used to secure the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker.
With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. Without this maintenance they can get noisy. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of putty and paint. This can be fixed by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.
The replacement window industry relies on the perception that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, while they can be easily maintained with a little attention. These repairs can be expensive and cause a lot of disruption in the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows with PVC-u from a "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can replace all windows in a home in a single day, saving time and eliminating the need for various tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving' double glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than a traditional sash window. However, these double-glazed units cannot duplicate the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.
3. Security
It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain, and sash lock can be installed. These can be installed so that the window is able to be opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. They are generally not noticeable, since they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches and should be replaced with more robust versions (such ones with double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the risk of them being hammered out.
Sash-window frames are usually made of oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and if it is feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced by the same wood. PVC-U companies usually offer a one stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on an entire home in a single day without the need to involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers.
4. Ventilation
Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a huge amount of light into buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were adapted so that even more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a more light appearance and windows with more elegance.
Sash windows were introduced, which required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, whereas later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a combination of lead and wood, and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their beautiful design.
To keep them in good condition, wooden windows must be maintained. A lack of regular attention could lead to:
Sashes that no longer slide easily.
Holes in the frame which allow water to enter and cause damage and decay.
Water can get into the putty and cause decay to the frame or cause cill.
In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their strength slim and affordable and also matched the fashion for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows are as thermally efficient as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and can be more attractive than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows.
The industry of replacement windows has done a lot to persuade house owners that their windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. The truth is that a lot of old windows made of wood are in good shape and with minor repairs could easily be repaired for many years to come.
5. Maintenance
The traditional sash windows require 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 the sashes may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to become misaligned and not closing properly. The sash could also get stuck in the open position, which allows water and draughts into the building.
Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by moisture entry. This can be avoided by careful painting, regular repairs, and removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. The sections of timber that are rotten should be carefully cut out and the affected area should be scarfed together or glued together with replacements of the exact nature as the rest of the timber. This repair method increases the amount of fabric that was originally used and is among the most minimally invasive methods of treating wood-to-timber rot.
A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to the traditional sanding or staining. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is especially useful for the treatment of pulley cords and sash, which can help prevent breakage.
It is crucial to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery such as the sash latches and stays. They can be extremely difficult to replace without damaging the quality of the original design. It is also advised that modern fittings made of aluminium, such as sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.