How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in cambridge windows have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of the way they appear. However, sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture that can cause the timber to expand.
Box sash windows were previously operated using chains, cotton cords and weights made of lead. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to solve this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes that are modular, are able to be restored to their original size. This lets the restoration be in line with modern energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation areas regulations. It also gives windows that have a superior appearance than upvc repairs Near me (Https://Zipperwood4.bravejournal.Net) alternatives.
Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, though this changed as production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to make larger frames with more glass. By 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 let light into rooms without the use of curtains.
The first windows were made of glass that was plain, but by the 17th Century the sash windows began to be more decorative. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and cost-effective, they became a feature of 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 size to be enlarged further and this in turn gave a better view out of the window. This was a significant improvement.
Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously, and also improved the ventilation of the building.
Oak was used for older examples and for more prestigious buildings. It is important to maintain the parting bead that separates the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. It is also essential that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good condition as these assist in operating the window.
2. Energy efficiency
Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets were made available. Plate glass was set into frames of timber that were rebated, then which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was applied to the frame's sides for watertightness. This kind of glass 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, handles and shutter hinges as well as a variety of fasteners to secure the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engraved patterns that identified the maker.
With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. If they are not maintained they could become noisy. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of paint and putty. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber products.
The industry of replacement windows is based on the belief that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, while they can be easily maintained with just a little care. These repairs can be expensive and cause many disruptions in the home. To prevent this, many homeowners opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one the large “one-stop shop” installation companies. They can take down and replace all windows in an entire house in just one day, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the entire process much more efficient. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving' double glazing to achieve higher energy ratings than the traditional windows made of sash. However double glazing seal repairs-glazed windows cannot duplicate the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.
3. Security
It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their style. Ironmongery, such as sash chain, mortice bolts and sash lock could be put in place. They can be fitted in a way so that the window is able to be open for ventilation and cleaning. They are usually unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. These are best replaced with more robust versions, such as those that incorporate double screws, or sprung levers in order to reduce the possibility of being struck by hammers.
Sash-window maintenance frames are traditionally made of oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept, and where it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by matching wood. PVC-u companies often provide a one-stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on a complete house in a day without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.
4. Ventilation
(Image: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Glass-Replacement-150x150.jpg)When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light into structures. By the end of the 18th century, they were adapted to allow even more light into rooms and larger glazing panes began to be made. The result was a much lighter appearance, and windows that had a higher degree of elegance than before.
Sash windows were introduced, which required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of leaded and wood. There were also a variety of types of knobs and shutter hinges. These ironmongery pieces must be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design.
To keep them in good shape, timber windows need to be maintained. Inattention to maintenance routinely could result in:
Sashes that do not move smoothly.
Holes in the frame which allow water to enter and 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 were popular in the I920s and I930s due to their strength and slim, and also because they were cheap and complemented the trend for healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash window repairs cambridge are as efficient as PVC-u windows cambridge, and may even be more attractive.
The window replacement industry has done a lot to convince homeowners that their windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. Many old timber windows are repairable and can be used for a long time with minor repairs.
5. Maintenance
The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do this could result in broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movements within the frame, causing the sash to not close correctly. The sash can also be stuck in an open position, which allows water and draughts into the property.
Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented by thorough painting, regular repairs and the elimination of the source of dampness. Wet rot can be identified due to the wavy appearance of the existing paint which can be removed to reveal soft, rotting timber. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut off and the affected area should be carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made of the same kind of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount original fabric and is one of most minimally invasive methods of treating timber-to-timber rot.
The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is another alternative to traditional sanding and staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is especially beneficial for treating pulley cords and sash which can stop breakage.
It is important to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, like sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without damaging the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings like chain stays and sash lifts is avoided if at all possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made of timber.