How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows may become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture which can cause the wood to swell.
Box sash windows were historically operated with chains or cotton cords, as well as weights made of lead. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to avoid this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Contrary to PVC-u windows which are manufactured to modular imperial sizes Timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows to comply with current energy standards and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also offers an option that is superior to uPVC alternatives.
Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became cheaper and artisans could create larger frames using larger glass. In the 18th century, sash windows were the dominant wooden design in most British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light into rooms without the need for curtains.
Early windows were plain glass, but in the 17th century sash windows were becoming more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were costly at the beginning but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they became an integral feature in many homes of the period.
In the 19th century, it became possible to create large, strong glasses that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to be enlarged further and this in turn allowed for a wider view from the window. This was an important innovation.
The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously, and allowed for better ventilation to buildings.
Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is crucial to maintain the separation bead that divides the sashes. This will stop draughts and rattles. It is also important that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good shape as they assist in operating the window.
2. Energy efficiency
As larger and clearer sheets of glass were made available, sash windows began replacing hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass placed within timber frames with rebates and then pinned with glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This form of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights.
The introduction of sashes resulted in an need for a greater variety of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops, shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners to hold the sashes into the right place. They were often decorated with designs, inscriptions, and engravings to identify the maker.
With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. If they are not maintained, they can become draughty. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of paint and putty. This can be fixed by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.
The replacement window industry relies on the belief that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, while they are able to be maintained with a bit of care. Repairs can be costly and cause many disruptions in the home. To avoid this homeowners, many choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the largest "one-stop shop" installation companies. These can remove and replace all windows in a house in just one day, eliminating 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 sash window. These double-glazed units are not able to replicate the proportions and sections of sashes from old timber.
3. Security
It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their style. Many types of ironmongery can be fitted including sash chains mortice bolts and locks for sash. They can be fitted in such a way that the window can still be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These windows are typically unobtrusive as they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catches. They should be replaced with more robust models, such as those that incorporate double screws or spring levers to decrease the risk of being hammered.
Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more elegant homes, from oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept and where possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. Many PVC-u firms provide 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 first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light into the buildings. By the end 18th century, they had been modified to allow more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also made. The result was a more light appearance and windows with more elegance.
The introduction of sash windows also required an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, whereas later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design.
Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good shape. Inattention to maintenance routinely could cause:
Sashes that do not slide effortlessly.
Holes in the frame that allow water to get in and cause damage and decay.
Water can get into the putty and cause decay to the frame or cill.
Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s & I930s because they were sturdy and slim, cost-effective and complemented the trend for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash windows are as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.
The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their traditional windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. Many older timber windows can be fixed and used for many more years with minor repairs.
5. Maintenance
A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your sash window, it can lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to be misaligned and not closing properly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or fixed in the open position and this can let water and draughts in the property.
Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided by regular maintenance, thorough painting and removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy look of the existing paint which can be removed to reveal soft, rotting wood. The rotten timber sections must be removed with care and the affected area should be snared together or glued together with replacements of the exact kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric left, and is among the least invasive ways of treating decay of timber to timber.
A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to traditional staining or sanding. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is especially beneficial for treating sash and pulley cords, which can stop breakage.
It is crucial that any historic ironmongery such as sash stay and latches be kept cheap double glazing cambridge and rehabilitated instead of being replacing them. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also recommended that fittings made of aluminum, such as sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.