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Five Things Everyone Makes Up About Sash Windows Cambridge
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can become stuck and be difficult to open or shut. This is usually due moisture that can cause the wood to swell.

Box sash windows were historically operated using chains, cotton cords and lead weights. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to address this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Unlike PVC-u windows that are made according to imperial sizes that are modular, timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows in order to comply with current energy standards and conform to conservation area regulations. It also comes with a window that is far superior to uPVC options.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used in large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became cheaper and artisans could produce larger frames with more glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows were the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Because they were simple to open, sash windows let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

The early windows were made of clear glass however, in the 17th century, sash windows began to become more attractive. They were initially made of colored glazing bars or mullions. They were costly at the beginning but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became a common feature in many period houses.

By the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, sturdy glass that did not need support bars. This allowed the frame size to increase further and this in turn meant more of a view from the window. This was a significant advancement.

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

Oak was used in older examples and for more prestigious buildings. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes and it is vital that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and drafts. It is also crucial that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good shape as they help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets became available. They were made of plate glass, set within rebated timber frames and then pinned with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights.


Sashes were introduced, which led to an increase in demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights and stoppers for sashes, shutter hinges and handles and a variety of fasteners to secure the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and engravings that identified the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. If they are not maintained they can get noisy. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. You can fix this problem by using wood-to-timber products.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the belief that old windows are damaged beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. However, repairs to these windows can be costly and cause significant disruption to your home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows with PVC-u from a large "one-stop shop" company for installation. These can remove and replace all the windows in a home within a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the entire process much more efficient. They can also be fitted with 'energy-saving' double-glazing to get higher energy efficiency ratings than are possible with traditional sash windows. Double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery, such as mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be put in place. They can be fitted in such a way that the window can be open for ventilation and cleaning. They are usually unobtrusive as they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catches. They should be replaced by more robust versions, such as ones that have double screws or sprung levers, to minimize the possibility of being hit with hammers.

Sash-window frames are usually made of oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars remain in good condition and in good condition, they should be kept. If feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced with wood that is in line with. PVC-U companies usually provide a one-stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows on a complete home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a significant amount of light to flood into structures. By upvc windows cambridge , they were modified to allow more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also made. The result was a lighter appearance and windows that were more elegant.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of wood and leaded. There were also various kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. Ironmongery elements must be retained and cleaned down so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good shape. A lack of regular attention could lead to:

Sashes that do not move smoothly.

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

break down of putty allowing water penetration, which could cause decay in the frame and cill.

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows grew in popularity because they were strong slim and affordable and also matched the fashion for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash windows are just as effective as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The replacement window industry did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed drafty, noisy and beyond repair. The truth is that a lot of old windows made of wood are in good shape and with minor repairs could easily be repaired for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it could lead to the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes can also cause structural movement in the frame, causing the sash to not close properly. The sash could also get stuck in its open position, which allows water and draughts to enter the building.

Damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented by thorough painting, regular repairs and the elimination of the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. The sections that are rotting should be carefully cut out and the affected part should be scarfed together or glued together by using replacements of the same nature as the rest of the timber. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric left, and is among the least invasive ways of treating decay of timber to timber.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to the traditional staining or sanding. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is particularly useful to treat pulley cords and sash where it can prevent breakage.

It is essential that any old ironmongery like sash stays and latches are retained and restored rather than replaced. These items can be very difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is also advised that modern fittings made of aluminium, such as sashlifts and chainstays, are avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.

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