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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of how they look. Sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open and close. This is often due moisture which can cause the timber to expand. Box sash windows were historically operated with chains, cotton cords and lead weights. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to address this issue. 1. Aesthetics Unlike PVC-u windows that are constructed to modular imperial sizes the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration to meet the current energy standards while ensuring compliance with conservation regulations for the area. It also provides windows with a superior appearance than uPVC alternatives. Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, however the production process was less expensive and craftsmen were able to produce larger frames with more glass. In the 18th century, windows made of sash were the predominant wooden style in a majority of British properties. As they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without the need for curtains. Early windows were simple glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows started to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and cheaper they were a common feature in many period houses. In the 19th century, it became possible to create large, strong glasses that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be made bigger and, in turn, gave the viewer a better view. This was a significant improvement. Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of the I920s and beginning of I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s. Oak was used for older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead which is used to separate the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good shape as they aid in operating the window. 2. Energy efficiency Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets were made available. wooden sliding doors cambridge were coated with plate glass that was set in timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This type of glass gradually replaced leaded lights. The introduction of sashes resulted in an need for a wider range of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners to hold the sashes in place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engravings that identified the maker. With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they can become draughty and let in cold air. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of paint and putty. It is possible to fix this issue with wood-to-timber products. The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the perception that old windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a bit of attention. Repairs can be expensive and cause lots of disruption to the home. Many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u from a huge “one-stop shop” installation company. They can replace and remove all windows in a house in a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much faster. They are also available with 'energy-saving' double-glazing to achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than traditional sash windows. These double-glazed units are not capable of replicating the proportions and section of sashes from old timber. 3. Security Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be installed. These can be installed to ensure that the window is capable of being opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. They are usually discrete since they are made to work with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. They are best replaced with more robust models, such as ones that have double screws or spring levers in order to reduce the possibility of being hit with hammers. Sash-window frames were constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more elegant homes made of oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and if it is feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced by identical wood. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on a complete house in a day without the need to involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers. 4. Ventilation When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light to flood into structures. At the end of the 18th century they were altered to allow even more light into rooms and larger glass panes began to be manufactured. The result was a more streamlined appearance, and windows that had a higher degree of elegance than before. The introduction of sash windows also necessitated a new range of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, later Victorian ones were made from brass or a mixture of lead and wood and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces must be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their exquisite design. Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. Inattention to maintenance routinely could lead to: Sashes that do not move smoothly. Holes in the frame that allow water to enter and cause damage and decay. break down of the putty and allow water penetration that could cause decay in the frame and cill. Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s & I930s due to their strength and slim, and also because they were cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash windows are just as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive. The industry of replacement windows has done a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows are rotten, draughty and beyond economic repair. Many old timber windows are repairable and can be used for many more years with minor repairs. 5. Maintenance The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your sash window, it can result in the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause the paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of the sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to become misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. The sash can also be stuck in an open position, allowing the water and drafts to enter the property. Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented by thorough painting, periodic repairs and the elimination of the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. Any timber that is rotting must be removed and the affected part carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same type of wood as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric retained and is one of the least invasive methods of treating decay caused by timber. The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is an alternative to the traditional method of sanding and staining. This is brushed onto the surface of the wood to stabilise and protect it from further damage. It is especially beneficial for the treatment of sash and pulley cords, where it can prevent breakage. It is essential to preserve and not replace any old ironmongery such as the sash latches and stays. It can be difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also advised that modern fittings made of aluminium, such as sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.