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Indisputable Proof That You Need Sash Windows Cambridge
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 become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture, which can cause the timber to swell.

Traditionally, window boxes utilised chains or cotton cord and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to address this problem.


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 sizes. This allows the restoration to meet modern day energy requirements while complying with conservation area regulations. It also offers an option that is superior to the uPVC options.

Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, though this changed when production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to produce larger frames with more glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light in rooms without the use of curtains.

The early windows were made of glass that was plain however, by the 17th Century, sash windows began to become more attractive. They started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive initially, but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were a common feature in many period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, sturdy glass that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to be enlarged further and this in turn gave a better view from the window. This was a very important advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that occurred at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s.

Oak was used in older examples and for more prestigious buildings. It is essential to keep the parting bead which is used to separate the sashes. This will help prevent rattles and draughts. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good working order as they assist in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets became available. They were made of plate glass, set in timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glazing gradually superseded the leaded light bulbs.

The introduction of sashes created an need for a larger variety of ironmongery with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, knobs and shutters as well as a range of fasteners that secured the sashes into the right place. These were usually decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

Sash windows are energy-efficient with regular maintenance. If they are not maintained they can get noisy. Putty and paint can cause draughts. This can be fixed by using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the perception that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, while they can be maintained with a little attention. Repairs can be costly and cause a lot of disruption in the home. To avoid this homeowners, many opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows made by one of the large "one-stop shop" installation companies. They can replace and remove all the windows in an entire house within a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen, making the whole process much faster. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving' double glazing to achieve higher energy ratings than the traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions and sections of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their style. Ironmongery like mortice bolts, sash chain, and sash lock can be used. They can be fitted in a way so that the window is able to be open for ventilation and cleaning. They are usually discrete since they are made to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. These are best replaced with more robust models, such as those that incorporate double screws, or sprung levers, to minimize the chance of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames were constructed from slow-growing deal or, in more prestigious houses they were made from oak. When glazing bars have survived they should be kept and where feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. PVC-U companies usually offer 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 coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a substantial amount of light into buildings. By the end 18th century, they had been modified to allow more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also produced. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with more elegance.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and lead. There were also different types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces must be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their exquisite design.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good order. Inattention to maintenance routinely could cause:

Sashes that do not move effortlessly.

Holes in the frame that allow water to enter and cause decay and damage.

The putty can be soaked by water and cause decay to the frame or cause cill.

Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s & I930s due to their strength and slim, cost-effective and matched the trend of healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient thermally as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The replacement window industry has done a lot to persuade house owners that their traditional windows are rotten, draughty and beyond economic repair. window glass replacement cambridge are repairable and can be 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 sash window, it could cause the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of the sashes may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to become misaligned and unable to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or slammed into an open position and this can let water and draughts enter the property.

Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be prevented by regular maintenance, thorough painting and removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. Any rotten sections of timber must be removed and the affected area should be carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same type of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric retained and is among the least invasive methods of treating decay of timber to timber.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is an alternative to traditional sanding and staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the wood to stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to prevent the breakage.

It is important that any historic ironmongery such as sash stays and latches be kept and restored instead of replaced. These items are difficult to replace without damaging the the original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium fittings, such as sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.

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