How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of the way they look. However, sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture, which can cause the timber to expand.
Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilized chains or cotton cord and lead weights to operate. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to avoid this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed according to the modular imperial size, timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration to meet the current energy standards while complying with conservation area regulations. It also provides windows that are superior to the emergency upvc door repairs options.
Sliding sash windows were initially only found in large buildings or public buildings, though the production process was less expensive and craftsmen were able to make larger frames with more glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the need for curtains.
Early windows were plain glass but by the 17th century, sash windows began to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. These were very expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and cheaper they became a feature of numerous period houses.
In the 19th century, it was possible to manufacture large, sturdy glass that did not need supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to be increased even more, which in turn allowed for a wider view out of the window. This was an important improvement.
The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and also improved the ventilation of a building.
The most popular kind of sash is made from slow grown deal (pine) but oak was used in the more luxurious buildings and in earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes, and it is important that this is maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers are essential to the operation of the window.
2. Energy efficiency
As clearer and larger sheets of glass became available, sash upvc window lock repair began to replace hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass set in timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This type of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights.
Sashes were introduced, which resulted in an increase in demand for ironmongery. The most common fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers, shutter hinges and handles and a variety of fasteners to fix the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and designs that were engraved to identify the maker.
Sash windows can be very energy efficient if 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. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber products.
The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the belief that old windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a little attention. These repairs can be expensive and cause many disruptions in the home. To prevent this homeowners, many opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one the large 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a home in a single day, saving time and avoiding the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be supplied with 'energy saving' double-glazing to get greater energy efficiency than are possible with traditional windows made of sash. However double-glazed windows cannot duplicate the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.
3. Security
Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their style. A variety of ironmongery types can be fitted including sash chains mortice bolts and sash locks. These can be installed in such a way that the broken Window Repair can still be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These are typically not noticeable, since they are designed to match the sash window. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers and should be replaced with more robust versions (such ones that have double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the chance of them being hammered open.
Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more prestigious houses, from oak. If the glazing bars remain intact and are not damaged, they should be left. If feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced with wood that matches. PVC-U companies usually provide a one-stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows on a complete house in a 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 significant amount of light into buildings. In the 18th century, they had been adapted so that even more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also created. The result was a lighter look and windows with more elegance.
(Image: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/doorpanels-300x200.jpg)The introduction of sash windows also required a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, whereas later Victorian ones could be made of 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 fine design.
Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good shape. Lack of attention to them regularly could lead to:
Sashes that do not slide smoothly.
holes in the frame allow water, which can cause damage and decay.
break down of putty allowing water penetration, which can lead to decay in the frame and cill.
In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their durability slim and inexpensive and also matched the fashion for healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash windows are just as effective as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.
The replacement window repair near me industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were decayed, drafty and beyond economical repair. Many older timber windows can be repaired and utilized for a longer period with minor repairs.
5. Maintenance
A traditional sash plastic window repair requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash upvc window and door repairs, it can lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It could also cause paint and putty deteriorate. The removal of sashes can also cause structural movement in the frame, which can cause the sash to not close properly. The sash can also be stuck in an open position, which allows the water and drafts to enter the property.
Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by moisture infiltration. This can be avoided by regular maintenance, thorough painting and removing the source of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified by the wavy look of the paint that can be stripped to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any timber that is rotting must be removed and the affected area carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same type of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric left, and is one of the least invasive methods of treating decay caused by timber.
The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to the traditional method of sanding and staining. It is brushed on the surface of the timber to stabilise and protect it from further damage. It is particularly beneficial for the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which can help stop breakage.
It is crucial to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, such as stay latches and sash latches. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided if at all possible as they can cause corrosion and damage to frames and sashes made of timber.