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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 can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture, which can cause the timber to expand. Box sash windows were previously operated by chains, cotton cords and weights made of lead. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to eliminate this issue. 1. Aesthetics In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are made according to imperial sizes that are modular the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original size. This lets the restoration meet the current energy standards while complying with conservation areas regulations. It also offers an option that is superior to uPVC options. Sliding sash window frames were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However the production became more affordable and artisans could produce larger frames with more glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden style in British homes. Since they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains. Early windows were plain glass but by the 17th century, sash windows were becoming more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive initially, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were a common feature in many period houses. In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, strong glass that did not need supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to be increased even further, which meant more of a view from the window. This was a significant innovation. The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a significant improvement that came about in the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened at the same time and gave improved ventilation to buildings. The most popular kind of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more luxurious buildings and in earlier examples. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead which separates the sashes. This will help prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers also are crucial to the functioning of the window. 2. Energy efficiency As larger and clearer sheets of glass became available, sash window began replacing hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass placed within timber frames with rebates and then pinned with glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This kind of glass gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs. window repair cambridge repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk 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, knobs and shutters and a variety of fasteners used to keep the sashes to their place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engravings to identify the maker. Sash windows are energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. But, if you don't maintain them, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Putty and paint can cause draughts. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber products. The market for replacement windows rests on the assumption that older windows are old and beyond economical repair, whereas they can be easily maintained with a little attention. These repairs can be expensive and cause many disruptions in the home. To prevent this homeowners often choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a home in one day, saving time and avoiding the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. They are also available with 'energy-saving' double-glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than those offered by traditional sash windows. However double-glazed windows cannot reproduce the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past. 3. Security Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their aesthetics. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain, and sash lock can be put in place. They can be fitted in such a way that the window can be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These are typically not noticeable, since they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. These are best replaced with more robust versions, such as ones that have double screws or spring levers, to minimize the possibility of being hammered. Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow grown deal or, in the more prestigious houses, from oak. If the glazing bars remain intact and are not damaged, they should be left. If it is possible, the timber cills should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. PVC-u companies often provide a one-stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows on a complete home in a single day without the need to engage other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers. 4. Ventilation When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a significant amount of light into buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were altered to allow even more light into rooms and bigger glazing panes started to be produced. The result was a much lighter appearance, and windows with a greater level of elegance than they had before. The introduction of sash windows also demanded an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of leaded and wood. There were also a variety of kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. The ironmongery pieces need to be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design. To ensure they remain in good condition, wooden windows need to be maintained. A lack of regular attention can result in: sashes that no longer slide easily. holes in the frame allow water, which can cause damage and decay. break down of putty, allowing water to penetrate, which could lead to decay of the frame and cill. Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s and I930s due to their strength and slim, cost-effective and matched the trend of healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient thermally as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and are more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows. The window replacement industry has done a lot to persuade house owners that their windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. Many old timber windows are repairable and can be utilized for a longer period with minor repairs. 5. Maintenance The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this could result in broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movements within the frame, causing the sash to not close correctly. The sash can also be stuck in its open position, allowing water and draughts into the building. Damage to timber windows is often caused by water infiltration. This can be avoided with regular maintenance by thorough painting and eliminating the source of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy appearance of the paint that can be removed to reveal soft, rotting timber. Any rotten sections of timber 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 that remain. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric that was originally used and is among the least invasive ways to treat wood-to-timber rot. A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to the traditional staining or sanding. It is brushed on the surface of the wood to stabilise and protect it from further damage. It is especially beneficial for the treatment of pulley cords and sash, where it can prevent breakage. It is crucial that any old ironmongery such as sash stay and latches are retained and restored instead of replaced. These items can be very difficult to replace without harming the the original design. It is also recommended that fittings made of aluminum like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, are avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.