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 often due to moisture which can cause the timber to swell.
Traditionally, window boxes utilised chains or cotton cord and lead weights to operate. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to solve this problem.
1. Aesthetics
Unlike PVC-u windows that are constructed according to the modular imperial size Timber sash windows can be restored to their original sizes. This allows the restoration to meet modern day energy requirements while still complying with conservation area regulations. It also gives windows that have a more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives.
Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, however the production process became cheaper and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. At the close 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 allowed light into rooms without 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 expensive initially, but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were an integral feature in many historic homes.
In the 19th century it was possible to create large, strong glass that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to increase further and this in turn meant more of a view from the window. This was a significant advancement.
The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s.
The most common kind of sash is made from slow grown deal (pine) but oak was also used in more prestigious buildings and in some earlier examples. It is crucial to maintain the separation bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will prevent draughts and rattles. It is also crucial that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good working order as they assist in operating the window.
2. Energy efficiency
Sash windows replaced hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets were made available. They were glazed with plate glass placed within timber frames with rebates and then pinned with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights.
The introduction of sashes led to an need for a wider range of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers, shutter hinges and knobs as well as a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes into place. They were often decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engravings to identify the maker.
Sash windows are energy-efficient with regular maintenance. Without this maintenance, they can become draughty. Putty and paint can cause draughts too. You can fix this problem by using wood-to-timber solutions.
The industry of replacement windows is based on the assumption that old windows are damaged and beyond economical repair, whereas they are able to be maintained with just a little care. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause substantial disruption to the home. To prevent this homeowners, many choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the many "one stop shop" installation companies. These can remove and replace all windows in a house within a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen, making the whole process much more efficient. They can also be supplied with 'energy saving' double-glazing to achieve greater energy efficiency than those offered by traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.
3. Security
Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their appearance. There are many types of ironmongery that can be installed with sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. These can be installed in a way so that the window is able to be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These are typically unobtrusive, as they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches, which are required to be replaced with more robust models (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the possibility of them being hammered open.
Sash-window frames are traditionally constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept and, if possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by matching wood. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows across a house in a day without the need to engage other tradespeople or coordinate visits from different suppliers.
4. Ventilation
When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light to flood into buildings. By the end 18th century, they were modified so that more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also created. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with more elegance.
The introduction of sash windows also demanded an entirely new range of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, while later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be maintained and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.
To ensure they remain in good shape, timber windows must be maintained. Inattention to maintenance can result in:
Sashes that no longer slide smoothly.
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 the cill.
Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s & I930s because they were sturdy and slim, and also because they were cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash windows are just as effective as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.
The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. The reality is that many older windows made of wood are in good shape and with minor repairs could easily be maintained for years to come.
5. Maintenance
A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly can lead to the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars, and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or fixed in the open position, which can let water and draughts in the property.
Damage to timber windows is often caused by water entry. This can be avoided 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 away to reveal soft, rotting timber. Any timber that is rotting must be removed and the affected area carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made from the same type of wood as those remaining. This method of repair increases the amount of original fabric that is left and is among the least invasive ways of treating timber-to-timber decay.
The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to the traditional method of staining and sanding. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is particularly useful in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which help stop breakage.
It is crucial that any old ironmongery like sash stays and latches are retained and restored rather than replacing them. They can be extremely difficult to replace without harming the the original design. It window fitters cambridge is also recommended that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.