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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows may get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is often due moisture which can cause the timber to swell. Box sash windows were historically operated using chains or cotton cords as well as lead weights. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to solve this problem. 1. Aesthetics Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes that are modular, can be restored to original dimensions. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and comply with conservation area regulations. It also comes with an option that is superior to uPVC options. Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, though this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden design 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, but in the 17th century, sash windows began to become more ornamental. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at the time but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they were a common feature in many of the period homes. In the 19th century, it became possible to make large, sturdy glasses that didn't need support bars. This allowed the frame size to be increased even further, which allowed for a wider view from the window. This was a significant advancement. The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that occurred towards the end of the I920s and the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. Oak was used for older and more luxurious buildings. It is important to maintain the parting bead which is used to separate the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good condition as these assist in operating the window. 2. Energy efficiency Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets were made available. They 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 glazing gradually replaced leaded lights. The introduction of sashes led to the need for a greater variety of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners to hold the sashes to their the right place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and engravings that identified the maker. With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of paint and putty. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber products. The market for replacement windows rests on the belief that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, while they can be maintained with a bit of care. Repairs can be expensive and cause lots of disruption to the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows using PVC-u from a large “one-stop shop” installation company. These can remove and replace all windows in a house in a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much more efficient. windows cambridge can also be supplied with 'energy-saving' double-glazing, which can achieve greater energy efficiency than are possible with traditional windows made of sash. However, these double-glazed units cannot reproduce the proportions and section of historic timber sashes. 3. Security Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery such as sash chain, mortice bolts and sash locks can be installed. These can be installed in such a way that the window is able to be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. They are usually not noticeable since they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catch. These are best replaced with more robust models like ones that have double screws or sprung levers, to minimize the risk of being struck by hammers. Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow grown deal or, in the more luxurious homes, from oak. If the glazing bars are still intact and are not damaged, they should be left. If feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced by wood that matches. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop installation service. They can take out and replace windows throughout a home in a single day, without involving other tradespeople. 4. Ventilation When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a large amount of light to flood into buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were modified to let even more light into rooms, and larger glass panes began to be produced. The result was a much lighter appearance, and windows that had a higher quality of design than before. Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were made out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and leaded. There were also various kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be retained and cleaned down to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated. Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good order. Lack of attention to them regularly can result in: Sashes that do not slide smoothly. Holes in the frame that allow water to get in and cause damage and decay. The putty can be soaked by water and cause decay to the frame or the cill. In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity because they were strong slim and affordable, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash window are just as effective as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive. The window replacement industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were rotten, drafty and beyond economical repair. Many older timber windows can be repaired and used for many more years with minor repairs. 5. Maintenance The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your window's sash, it could cause the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to become damaged. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame that 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 water and draughts to enter the property. Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be avoided with regular repairs by thorough painting and eliminating the cause of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified by the wavy look of the existing paint which can be stripped to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any timber that is rotting should be cut off and the affected part carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made from the same type of wood as the ones that remain. This repair method increases the amount original fabric and is among the most non-invasive methods to treat timber-to-timber rot. A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to traditional process of sanding or staining. It is brushed on the surface of the wood to stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which help prevent the breakage. It is crucial to restore and not replace any old ironmongery such as stay latches and sash latches. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings, such as chain stays and sash lifts should be avoided if possible as they can cause corrosion and damage to timber frames and sashes.