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Do You Know How To Explain Sash Windows Cambridge To Your Boss
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and are difficult to open and close. This is often due to moisture that can cause the timber to expand.

Box sash windows were historically operated by chains, cotton cords and lead weights. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are manufactured according to the modular imperial size, timber sash windows can be restored to their original sizes. This lets the restoration meet the current energy standards while complying with conservation area regulations. It also offers windows with a superior appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could create larger frames using larger glass. In the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant wooden style in a majority of British homes. Because they were simple to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.

The early windows were made of glass that was plain However, by the 17th Century sash windows started to be more decorative. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and less expensive, they became a part of many of the period homes.

In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, sturdy glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be made larger which, in turn, provided a better view. This was a very important innovation.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of the I920s and beginning of I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened at the same time and also improved the ventilation of the building.

Oak was used in older and more luxurious buildings. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes. It is vital that it is well maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are also essential to the operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger sheets of glass became available, sash windows started 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 create a watertight seal. This type of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

Sashes were introduced, which led to increased demand for ironmongery. The most common fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights and stoppers for sashes shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges and various fasteners used to fix the sashes. These were usually decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be very energy-efficient with regular maintenance. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can also cause draughts. This issue can be fixed with wood-to-timber products.

The replacement window industry relies heavily on the perception that old windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a bit of attention. Repairs can be costly and cause lots of disruption to the home. To prevent this homeowners, many prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the large "one stop shop" installation companies. These can remove and replace all windows in a home within a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen, making the whole process much quicker. They can also be supplied with energy-saving double-glazing, which can achieve more energy efficient ratings than those offered by traditional sash windows. These double-glazed units are not able to replicate the proportions or section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery like mortice bolts, sash chain, and sash lock can be installed. They can be positioned in a way so that the window is able to be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These are typically unobtrusive, as they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. They should be replaced by more robust models, such as ones that have double screws, or sprung levers to decrease the chance of being struck by hammers.


Sash-window frames were typically made from slow-growing deal or, in the more elegant homes they were made from oak. If the glazing bars are still in good condition and in good condition, they should be kept. If feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. Many PVC-U firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can take down and replace windows throughout a house in just one day, without involving any other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light to flood into structures. At the end of the 18th century, they were modified to let even more light into rooms and larger glazing panes began to be manufactured. 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. The first pulleys were made of wood, later Victorian ones were made from brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be maintained and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

To keep them in good condition, timber windows need to be maintained. A lack of regular attention can lead to:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

Holes in the frame which allow water to get in and 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 increased in popularity due to their durability, slim and cheap, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. patio doors cambridge has proven that softwood sash window are just as effective as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. However, many older windows made of timber are in good condition and with minor repairs can easily be repaired for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your window's sash, it could lead to the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It could also cause the paint and putty to become damaged. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame, causing the sash to not close correctly. The sash can also be stuck in its open position, which allows water and draughts to enter the property.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by water penetration. This can be avoided by regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. The sections of timber that are rotten should be carefully cut out, and the affected area should be scarfed or glued together using replacements of the same kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric left, and is one of the least invasive methods for treating decay of timber to timber.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to the traditional method of sanding and staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulley cords and sash, where it can prevent breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery, such as the sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is also recommended that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, are avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.

Website: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/cambridge-windowrepair/