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How To Make An Amazing Instagram Video About Sash Windows Cambridge
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of how they look. Sash windows can become stuck and become difficult to open or shut. This is often due moisture that can cause the timber to swell.

Box sash windows were historically operated by chains or cotton cords, as well as lead weights. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

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

Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, though the production process was less expensive and craftsmen were able to create larger frames using more glass. In the 18th century, sash windows were the dominant wooden design in most British homes. As they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

The first windows were made of clear glass, but by the 17th Century, sash windows began to become more attractive. They were initially made of colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and cheaper they became a part of many period houses.


In the 19th century, it became possible to make large, sturdy glasses that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be enlarged, which in turn gave a better view. This was a significant innovation.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of the I920s and beginning of I930s. The double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.

Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead that divides the sashes. This will stop rattles and draughts. It is also essential that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good working order as they help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets were made available. They were glazed with plate glass set within rebated timber frames and then pinned with glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This type of glass gradually replaced led lights.

The introduction of sashes resulted in the need for a larger variety of ironmongery with the basic fittings being brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops, shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners to hold the sashes in place. These were usually decorated with designs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. Without this maintenance, they can become drafty. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of paint and putty. This can be corrected using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The market for replacement windows rests on the assumption that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, while they can be maintained with a bit of care. However, these repairs can be costly and cause considerable disruption to the home. To avoid this, many homeowners prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the many "one-stop shop" installation companies. They can replace all windows in a home in one day, saving time and eliminating the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than the traditional windows made of sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to replicate the section and proportions of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. A variety of ironmongery types can be installed with sash chains, mortice bolts, and sash locks. They can be fitted to ensure that the window is open for ventilation or cleaning. These are typically unobtrusive, as they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches and must be replaced by more robust versions (such as those incorporating double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the possibility of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow grown deal or, in the more elegant homes, from oak. If the glazing bars are still intact and are not damaged, they should be left. If feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced by wood that matches. PVC-u companies often provide 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 co-ordinate various 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. At the end of the 18th century, they had been adapted so that even more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a much lighter appearance and windows with a higher quality of design than before.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of leaded and wood. There were also different kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. The ironmongery pieces need to be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design.

To keep them in good shape, timber windows need to be maintained. Lack of regular attention may lead to:

Sashes that do not move easily.

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

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

In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their durability slim and inexpensive and also matched the fashion for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are as thermally efficient as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and are more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The industry of replacement windows has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their old windows are old, dirty, and beyond economic repair. Many older timber windows can be repaired and used for a long time with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it can cause the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause the paint and putty to become damaged. The removal of the sashes may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to move out of alignment and in a position that it is not able to close properly. window doctor cambridge is also possible for the sash to be snagged or fixed in an open position and let water and draughts enter the structure.

Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be prevented with careful painting, regular repairs and elimination of the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. The rotten timber sections should be carefully removed and the affected area should be scarfed together or glued together using replacements of the same type as the remaining timber. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric used in the first place and is one of least invasive ways to treat timber-to-timber rot.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to traditional process of sanding or staining. This is brushed onto the surface of the timber to stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful to treat sash and pulley cords, which can help prevent breakage.

It is essential that any historic ironmongery such as sash stay and latches are kept and restored instead of replacing them. These items can be very difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is also recommended that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.

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