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This Is A Sash Windows Cambridge Success Story You'll Never Remember
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture, which can cause the timber to swell.

Box sash windows were traditionally 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 constructed according to the modular imperial size Timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This lets the restoration meet the current energy standards while still complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also gives windows that have a superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally intended for large structures or public buildings. However this changed as production became less expensive and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. In the 18th century, sash windows were the dominant design of wood in the majority of British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

Early windows were simple glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows were becoming more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. These were very expensive at the time but as glass production improved and cheaper they were a common feature in many period houses.

In the 19th century, it became possible to produce large, strong glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to be enlarged further and this in turn gave a better view from the window. This was a significant improvement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and allowed for better ventilation to buildings.

Oak was used in older and more luxurious buildings. A parting bead separates the two sashes. It is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good working order as they aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As larger and clearer sheets of glass became available, sash windows began replacing hinged casements. Glass plates were set in frames made of timber, which were pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on the frame's sides for watertightness. This type of glazing gradually superseded led lights.

The introduction of sashes led to the need for a larger variety of ironmongery including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops, shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners that secured the sashes to their place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engravings that identified the maker.

Sash windows are energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. Without this maintenance they can get noisy. window fitters cambridge and paint can also cause draughts. This can be remedied by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The market for replacement windows rests on the assumption that older windows are old and beyond economical repair, while they can be maintained with a bit of care. Repairs can be expensive and cause a lot of disruption in the home. To avoid this, many homeowners opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows made by one of the many "one stop shop" installation companies. They can replace and remove all windows in a home within a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much quicker. They can also be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to get greater energy efficiency than are possible with traditional windows made of sash. However double-glazed windows cannot reproduce the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their style. A variety of ironmongery types can be fitted with sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. They can be fitted in a way so that the window is able to be open for ventilation and cleaning. These products are often not noticeable since they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. They are best replaced with more robust models, such as ones that have double screws or spring levers to decrease the possibility of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more luxurious homes, from oak. If glazing bars have survived, they should be preserved, and where possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with matching wood. PVC-U companies usually offer a one stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on a complete home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a huge amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. In the 18th century, they had been adapted so that even more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a much lighter appearance, and windows with a greater quality of design than before.


The introduction of sash windows also demanded the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, whereas later Victorian ones were made from brass or a combination of lead and wood, and there were various types 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.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good shape. Lack of attention to them regularly can result in:

Sashes that don't slide easily.

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

Water can get into the putty and cause decay to the frame or cill.

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their strength slim and inexpensive and were in line with the trend for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash windows are just as effective as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The window replacement industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were decayed and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. Many older timber windows can be repaired and used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do this could result in sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close properly. The sash can also be stuck in the open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the property.

Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided with regular maintenance by thorough painting and eliminating the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. The rotten timber sections should be carefully removed and the affected area should be snared together or pieced together with replacements of the exact kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric that was originally used and is one of least invasive ways to treat the rot that occurs between timber and timber.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to traditional sanding and staining. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is especially useful for the treatment of sash and pulley cords, which can stop breakage.

It is essential that any old ironmongery like sash stays and latches be kept and restored rather than replaced. It can be difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also advised that fittings made of aluminum like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, be avoided as they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.

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