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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. However, sash windows may become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture that can cause the wood to swell. Box sash windows were previously 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 Unlike PVC-u windows that are made according to the modular imperial size, timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration to meet modern day energy requirements while complying with conservation area regulations. It also gives a window with a far superior appearance than uPVC alternatives. Sliding sash window frames were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became cheaper and artisans could produce larger frames with larger glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. As they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without the need for curtains. The first windows were made of glass that was plain However, in the 17th century sash windows started to become more attractive. They started with coloured glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were costly at first, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were an integral feature in many period houses. In the 19th century it was possible to make large, strong glass that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be enlarged and, in turn, gave an improved view. This was a significant innovation. The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another significant improvement that came about in the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously and gave improved ventilation to a building. Oak was used in older examples and for more prestigious buildings. A parting bead separates the two sashes. It is important that this is maintained in order to avoid rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers are also crucial to the functioning of the window. 2. Energy efficiency As clearer and larger sheets of glass were made available, sash windows started replacing hinged casements. Glass plates were set in rebated timber frames, secured with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to the frame's sides to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights. Sashes were introduced, which led to a greater demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers, shutter hinges and handles as well as various fasteners used to fix the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker. With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of paint and putty. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber products. The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the notion that old windows are damaged 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 opt to replace their windows using PVC-u from a huge “one-stop shop” company for installation. They can replace all windows in a house in a single day, saving time and avoiding the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be fitted with 'energy saving' double-glazing, which can achieve greater energy efficiency than are possible with traditional sash windows. However, these double-glazed units cannot duplicate the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past. 3. Security It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their style. A variety of ironmongery types can be fitted with sash chains, mortice bolts and sash locks. They can be positioned in such a way that the window can be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These windows are typically unobtrusive as they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers and must be replaced by more robust versions (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring levers to decrease the chance of them being hammered out. Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more prestigious houses made of oak. If the glazing bars are in good condition, they should be retained. If it is possible, the timber cills should be replaced by wood that is in line with. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop installation service. They can remove and replace windows throughout a house in just one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople. 4. Ventilation When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light into the buildings. In the 18th century, they were modified so that more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a more streamlined appearance, and windows that had a higher level of elegance than they had before. The introduction of sash windows also necessitated a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and leaded. There were also different types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be maintained and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated. Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good order. A lack of regular attention could lead to: Sashes that no longer slide easily. Repair My Windows And Doors in the frame that allow water to get in and cause damage and decay. break down of putty, allowing water penetration that could lead to decay of the frame and cill. In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity because they were strong slim and affordable and also matched the fashion for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient in thermal efficiency as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of modern casement windows. The industry of replacement windows did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. Many old windows made of timber are repairable and can be used for many more years with minor repairs. 5. Maintenance A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly could result in broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of the sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to become misaligned and not closing properly. The sash may also become stuck in an open position, which allows water and draughts into the building. Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be avoided by thorough painting, periodic repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. Any timber that is rotting should be cut off and the affected area should be carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same kind of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximises the amount of fabric left, and is among the least invasive ways of treating timber-to-timber decay. A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to the traditional staining or sanding. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly useful for treating pulley cords and sash which can help prevent breakage. It is important that any old ironmongery such as sash stays and latches be kept and rehabilitated instead of being replacing them. These items can be very difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is also recommended that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, be avoided as they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.