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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can become stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture, which can cause the wood to swell. Traditionally, windows made of box sash used chains or cotton cord and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to solve this problem. 1. Aesthetics Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes that are modular, can be restored to their original dimensions. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows in order to meet the current energy requirements and to comply with conservation area regulations. It also gives a window with a far superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives. Sliding sash windows were originally only used in large structures or public buildings, but this changed when production became cheaper and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light into rooms without the need for curtains. The early windows were made of glass that was plain however, by the 17th Century sash windows started to become more ornamental. They began with colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were expensive at the beginning but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were an integral feature in many period houses. In upvc window repairs near me repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk , it was possible to create large, strong glasses that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame size to increase further, which 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 window at the end of I920s and the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s. The most popular type of sash is made from slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was also used in more expensive buildings as well as in some earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes and it is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers are crucial to the functioning of the window. 2. Energy efficiency As larger and clearer glass sheets became available, sash window began to replace hinged casements. Glass plates were set in frames made of timber, which were secured with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on the frame's two sides to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights. Sashes were introduced, which resulted in increased demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights and stoppers for sashes shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges, and a variety of fasteners to fix the sashes. These were usually decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker. With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. If they are not maintained they can get noisy. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be corrected using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose. The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the perception that older windows are beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows can be expensive and involve substantial disruption to the home. To avoid this homeowners often choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the many “one-stop shop” installation companies. These can remove and replace all windows in a house within a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much faster. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than the traditional windows with sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to replicate the section and proportions of historic timber sashes. 3. Security It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising on their aesthetics. There are many types of ironmongery that can be fitted with sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. They can be positioned in a manner that the window can be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These windows are typically unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers, which are required to be replaced with more robust versions (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the possibility of them being hammered out. Sash-window frames were traditionally made from slow-growing deal or, in the more luxurious homes they were made from oak. If the glazing bars remain in good condition, they should be retained. Where feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced by wood that is in line with. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on an entire home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from different suppliers. 4. Ventilation Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a huge amount of light into buildings. By the end 18th century, they had been modified to allow more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with more elegance. The introduction of sash windows also necessitated a new range of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, while later Victorian ones were made from brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces must be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their exquisite design. Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good shape. Inattention to maintenance routinely could lead to: Sashes that do not slide easily. Holes in the frame which allow water to enter and cause decay and damage. break down of putty, allowing water to penetrate, which could cause decay in the frame and cill. In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity because they were strong slim and inexpensive and also matched the fashion for 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 has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their windows are rotten, draughty and beyond economic repair. The truth is that a lot of old timber windows are in good shape and, with minor repairs, could easily be maintained for 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 lead to the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame, causing the sash not to close correctly. The sash may also become stuck in its open position, which allows the water and drafts to enter the building. Damage to timber windows is often caused by water infiltration. This can be prevented by thorough painting, regular repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy look of the paint that can be stripped to reveal soft, rotting timber. The sections that are rotting should be carefully cut out and the affected part should be scarfed or glued together using replacements of the same type as the remaining timber. This method of repair increases the amount original fabric and is among the most non-invasive methods 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 on the surface of the wood to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful to treat pulley cords and sash which can help prevent breakage. It is crucial that any historic ironmongery such as sash stays and latches are kept and restored rather than replaced. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also recommended that modern aluminium fittings, such as sashlifts and chainstays, are avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.