Tips For Explaining Sash Windows Cambridge To Your Boss
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of how they appear. However, sash windows may become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is often due moisture, which can cause the timber to expand.
Traditionally, windows made of box sash used chains or cotton cord and lead weights to operate. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to solve this problem.
1. Aesthetics
Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes, which are modular, can be reconstructed to original dimensions. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors allows the restoration of timber sash windows to comply with current energy standards and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also offers a window with a far superior appearance than uPVC alternatives.
Sliding sash windows were originally only found in large buildings or public buildings, though the production process became cheaper and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. In the 18th century, windows made of sash were the predominant design of wood in the majority of British properties. As they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.
Early windows were simple glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows began to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were costly at first, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became a common feature in many historic homes.
In the 19th century, it became possible to produce large, sturdy glasses that didn't require support bars. This allowed for the frame to be made larger, which in turn gave a better view. This was an important innovation.
Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of the I920s and beginning of 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 popular type of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more luxurious buildings and in some earlier examples. It is essential to keep the separation bead that divides the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. It is also crucial that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good shape as they help to operate the window.
2. Energy efficiency
Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets were made available. They were coated with plate glass that was set in timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.
The introduction of sashes resulted in a need for a much greater variety of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners that secured the sashes in the right place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and designs that were engraved to identify the maker.
Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. Without this maintenance they can get drafty. Paint and putty may cause draughts. It is possible to fix this issue with wood-to-timber products.
The industry of replacement windows is based on the perception that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, whereas they can be easily maintained with a bit of care. However, these repairs can be expensive and involve significant disruption to your home. To avoid this, many homeowners opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one of the largest "one-stop shop" installation companies. They can replace and remove all the windows in a home within a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the whole process much more efficient. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to attain more energy efficient ratings than a traditional sash window. However double-glazed windows cannot reproduce the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.
3. Security
It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their style. Ironmongery such as sash chain, mortice bolts and sash locks can be used. These can be installed to ensure that the window remains capable of being opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. These windows are typically unobtrusive as they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catch. They should be replaced by more robust models like those with double screws, or sprung levers, to minimize the risk of being hit with hammers.
Sash-window frames are typically made of oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and, if possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by identical wood. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can remove and replace windows throughout a house in just one day, without involving other tradespeople.
4. Ventilation
When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a large amount of light to flood into structures. By the end of the 18th century they were altered to allow even more light into rooms, and larger glazing panes began to be made. The result was a lighter appearance and windows that had a higher degree of elegance than before.
Sash windows were introduced and required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of wood and lead. There were also a variety of kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. These ironmongery pieces should be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their exquisite design.
Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good order. Inattention to maintenance routinely could lead to:
Sashes that don't slide easily.
Holes in the frame that allow water to get in and cause damage and decay.
Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or the cill.
In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows increased in popularity because they were strong slim and inexpensive and were in line with the trend for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows are as thermally efficient as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and are more attractive than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows.
The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their windows are old, dirty, and beyond economic repair. The truth is that a lot of older windows made of timber are in good condition and with minor repairs can easily be serviceable for many years to come.
5. Maintenance
The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your window's sash, it could cause the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close properly. The sash may also become stuck in its open position, which allows water and draughts to enter the property.
Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be avoided by regular repairs by thorough painting and eliminating the source of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified by the wavy look of the paint, which can be removed to reveal soft, rotting wood. The rotten timber sections must be removed with care and the affected part should be scarfed or pieced 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 timber-to-timber rot.
A wood condenser that is based on resin is a viable alternative to traditional sanding or staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the timber to stabilise and protect it from further damage. It is especially beneficial for the treatment of pulley cords and sash, where it can prevent breakage.
It is important to restore and not replace any old ironmongery such as sash latches and stays. It is difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings, such as chain stays and sash lifts should be avoided if possible since they can cause corrosion and damage to timber frames and sashes.