Notes

Five Things Everybody Gets Wrong About Sash Windows Cambridge
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of the way they appear. However, sash windows can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is often due moisture, which can cause the timber to swell.

Box sash windows were previously operated with chains, cotton cords and lead weights. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are manufactured to modular imperial sizes Timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration to meet modern day energy requirements while complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also provides windows that have a more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used for large buildings or public buildings. However the production became cheaper and artisans could create larger frames using larger glass. By the late 18th century Sash windows were the most popular design of wood in the majority of British properties. Because they were simple to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.

The early windows were made of clear glass, but in the 17th century sash windows started to become more ornamental. They started with coloured glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were expensive at first, but as glass production became cheaper 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 need supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be enlarged, which in turn gave an improved view. This was an important advancement.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and at the beginning of I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened at the same time and allowed for better ventilation to the building.

Oak was used for older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is essential to keep the parting bead which separates the sashes. This will prevent rattles and draughts. It is also essential that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good condition as these assist in operating the window.

2. upvc windows cambridge and larger glass sheets became available, sash window began to replace hinged casements. Plate glass was set into rebated timber frames, pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on the frame's two sides for watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes led to a need for a much larger variety of ironmongery with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners that secured the sashes to their the right place. These were usually decorated with designs, inscriptions, and engravings to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. Without this maintenance, they can become draughty. Putty and paint can cause draughts too. This can be fixed by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.

The replacement window industry relies on the assumption that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, whereas they are able to be maintained with just a little care. However, these repairs are costly and can cause considerable disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a huge "one-stop shop" installation company. They can replace all windows in a home in a single day, saving time and avoiding the need for various tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to get greater energy efficiency than those offered by traditional windows with sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to duplicate the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their appearance. There are many types of ironmongery that can be fitted, including sash chains, mortice bolts, and locks for sash. They can be positioned in such a way that the window is able to be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually unobtrusive, as they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. They should be replaced with more robust versions, such as those that incorporate double screws or sprung levers, to minimize the risk of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow grown deal or, in more elegant homes made of oak. If glazing bars have survived, they should be preserved, and where feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. 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 other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a large amount of light to enter buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were modified to let even more light into rooms and larger glass panes began to be manufactured. The result was a lighter look and windows with more elegance.

Sash windows were introduced, which required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, while later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a mixture of wood and lead, and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be retained and cleaned down to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good order. Lack of regular attention may lead to:

Sashes that don't slide effortlessly.


holes in the frame that allow water, which can cause damage and decay.

break down of putty, allowing water penetration that could lead to decay of the frame and cill.

Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s and I930s because they were sturdy and slim, and also because they were cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash windows are as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their traditional windows are old, dirty, and beyond economic repair. Many old windows made of timber are repairable and can be utilized for a longer period with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it can result in the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to become damaged. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movements within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or slammed into an open position and this can let water and draughts into the property.

Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented by regular repairs by thorough painting and eliminating the source of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy look of the existing paint which can be stripped away to reveal soft, rotting timber. The sections that are rotting must be removed with care and the affected part should be snared together or glued together by using replacements of the same kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric used in the first place and is among the least invasive ways to treat wood-to-timber rot.

A resin-based wood condenser is a viable alternative to traditional staining or sanding. It is brushed on the surface of the wood to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to prevent breakage.

It is important that any ironmongery from the past like sash stays and latches are kept and restored rather than replaced. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium fittings, such as sashlifts and chainstays, are avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.

Website: https://www.steenie.co.uk/the-reason-behind-aluminium-windows-cambridgeshire-is-everyones-obsession-in-2023/