How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of the way they look. However, sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture which can cause the timber to swell.

Box sash windows were traditionally operated using chains or cotton cords, as well as lead weights. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to eliminate this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes and are modular, are able to be restored to original dimensions. This lets the restoration be in line with modern energy requirements while still complying with conservation area regulations. It also comes with a Hopper Window Repair that is far superior to the uPVC options.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became more affordable and artisans could make larger frames using greater glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Because they were simple to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.

Early windows were simple glass, but by the 17th century sash windows started to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and less expensive, they were a common feature in many period houses.

In the 19th century, it became possible to create large, sturdy glasses that didn't need support bars. This allowed the frame's size to increase more, which in turn allowed for a wider view out of the window. This was a significant advancement.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and gave improved ventilation to a building.

The most popular type of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more prestigious buildings and in earlier examples. It is important to maintain the parting bead that divides the sashes. This will prevent draughts and rattles. It is also essential that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good working order as they aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets became available. Plate glass was placed in rebated timber frames, which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was then sprayed onto the frame's sides for watertightness. This type of glazing gradually superseded the leaded light bulbs.

Sashes were introduced, which led to a greater demand for ironmongery. The most common fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers shutter hinges and handles, and a variety of fasteners used to fix the sashes. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or designs that were engraved to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. Without this maintenance they could become drafty. Putty and paint can cause draughts too. This can be corrected using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The replacement window industry relies on the assumption that old windows are damaged and beyond economical repair, whereas they are able to be maintained with a little attention. Repairs can be costly and cause many disruptions in the home. To avoid this homeowners, many prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the large "one stop shop" installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, thereby saving time and avoiding the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. They are also available with 'energy-saving' double-glazing to achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than traditional windows with sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to duplicate the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their aesthetics. Many types of ironmongery can be fitted including sash chains mortice bolts and sash locks. These can be installed in a way that the window remains capable of being opened for ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically not noticeable since they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches that should be replaced with more robust models (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring levers to decrease the chance of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames are usually made from oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and where it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. PVC-u companies often provide 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

When sash windows cambridge first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light into structures. In the 18th century, they had been modified so that more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also made. The result was a much lighter appearance, and windows with a greater degree of elegance than before.

Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were made out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and leaded. There were also different types of knobs and shutter hinges. The ironmongery components should be retained and cleaned down to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good shape. Lack of regular attention may cause:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

Holes in the frame which allow water to get in and cause damage and decay.

The putty can be soaked by water and cause decay to the frame or the cill.

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their strength, slim and cheap and also matched the fashion for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash window are just as effective as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The replacement window 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, could easily be maintained for years to come.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your window's sash, it could lead to the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movements within the frame, which can cause the sash to not close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or fixed in the open position and this can let water and draughts into the structure.

Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented by careful painting, regular repairs and the elimination of the cause of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified by the wavy appearance of the paint that can be stripped to reveal soft, rotting timber. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut out and the affected area carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made from the same type of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric left, and is among the least invasive methods for treating decay of timber to timber.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to traditional staining and sanding. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is especially useful for treating sash and pulley cords, where it can prevent breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any historical ironmongery such as sash latches and stays. They can be extremely difficult to replace without harming the quality of the original design. It is also advised that fittings made of aluminum, such as sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.