What To Say About Sash Windows Cambridge To Your Boss
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 may get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture, which can cause the wood to expand.
Box sash windows were historically operated with chains or cotton cords, as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash window springs are hidden to avoid this issue.
1. Aesthetics
In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are made according to imperial sizes that are modular, timber sash windows can be restored to their original sizes. This allows the restoration to be in line with modern energy requirements while still complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also provides a window with a far superior appearance than uPVC alternatives.
Sliding sash windows were originally only found in large buildings or public buildings, but this changed when production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to create larger frames using more glass. In the 18th century, Sash windows were the most popular wooden design in most British homes. Since they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.
Early windows were plain glass, but in the 17th century sash windows were becoming more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were costly at the beginning but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became commonplace in many historic homes.
In the 19th century, it was possible to manufacture large, strong glass that did not need supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be enlarged, which in turn gave a better view. This was a very important advancement.
Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and the beginning of I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously and allowed for better ventilation to the building.
Oak was used for older and more luxurious buildings. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes. It is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. 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 clearer and larger glass sheets became available, sash windows started replacing hinged casements. Glass plates were set in frames made of timber, which were which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was sprayed on the frame's sides to ensure watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.
The introduction of sashes led to an need for a larger variety of ironmongery including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners that secured the sashes in place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and designs that were engraved to identify the maker.
Sash windows are energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. This can be corrected using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.
The market for replacement windows rests on the belief that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, but they can be easily maintained with just a little care. However, these repairs can be expensive and involve considerable disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a large "one-stop shop" company for installation. These can remove and replace all windows in a home in a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much faster. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving double glazing to get higher energy ratings than traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed units are not able to replicate the proportions and section of sashes from old timber.
3. Security
Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their style. There are many types of ironmongery that can be installed including sash chains mortice bolts and sash locks. These can be installed so that the window is still open to allow ventilation or cleaning. These products are often unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches, which should be replaced with more robust models (such ones with double screws) or spring levers to decrease the possibility of them being hammered open.
Sash-window frames are usually constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are in good condition and in good condition, they should be kept. Where feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced by timber that is compatible with. Many PVC-U firms offer a one-stop shop installation service. upvc windows cambridge can take out and replace windows on an entire home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.
4. Ventilation
When sash windows were 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 glass panes began to be made. The result was a lighter appearance, and windows with a higher degree of elegance than before.
The introduction of sash windows also demanded a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, while 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. Ironmongery elements must be maintained and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.
Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good condition. Inattention to maintenance can result in:
sashes that no longer slide easily.
holes in the frame allow water, which can cause damage and decay.
break down of putty allowing water penetration, which can lead to decay in the frame and cill.
Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s and I930s due to their strength and slim, cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash window are as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.
The window replacement industry did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed, drafty and beyond economical repair. The truth is that a lot of older timber windows are in good condition and with minor repairs can easily be serviceable for many years to come.
5. Maintenance
The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your window's sash, 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 can also cause structural movement in the frame, which can cause the sash to not close correctly. The sash could also get stuck in an open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the building.
Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented by regular maintenance, thorough painting and removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified due to the wavy appearance of the paint that can be stripped to reveal soft, rotting wood. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut out and the affected part carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made of the same type of timber as the ones remaining. This repair method increases 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 another alternative to the traditional method of staining and sanding. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly useful to treat sash and pulley cords, where it can prevent breakage.
It is important to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, such as the sash latches and stays. They can be extremely difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is also advised that fittings made of aluminum like sashlifts and chainstays, are avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.