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15 Gifts For Your Sash Windows Cambridge Lover In Your Life
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of how they look. However, sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture that can cause the timber to expand.

Traditionally, window boxes utilized chains, cotton cords or weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to address this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Unlike PVC-u windows that are made to modular imperial sizes Timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration to meet the current energy standards while still complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also comes with windows that are superior to uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, however the production process became less expensive and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. In the 18th century, windows made of sash were the predominant wooden style in a majority of British properties. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the need for curtains.

The early windows were made of clear glass however, in the 17th century sash windows started to become more attractive. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. They were costly at the beginning but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were an integral feature in many historic homes.

In the 19th century, it became possible to produce large, sturdy glasses that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to be enlarged more, which in turn meant more of a view out of the window. This was a very important improvement.

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

The most common type of sash is constructed from slow grown deal (pine) however oak was utilized in more prestigious buildings and in earlier examples. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will stop draughts and rattles. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are also crucial to the functioning of the window.

2. Repair My Windows And Doors replaced hinged cases as clearer and larger sheets became available. Glass plates were set in rebated timber frames, which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was applied to both sides of the frame to ensure watertightness. This form of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights.


The introduction of sashes led to an need for a wider range of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, knobs and shutters and a variety of fasteners used to keep the sashes into place. These were usually decorated with designs, inscriptions, and engravings to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be very energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. However, if they are not maintained, they can become draughty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be remedied by using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the notion that old windows are damaged beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. Repairs can be costly and cause lots of disruption to 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 take down and replace all windows in an entire house in just one day, eliminating the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much quicker. They can also be fitted with 'energy saving' double-glazing to achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than are possible with traditional sash windows. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their style. There are many types of ironmongery that are available including sash chains mortice bolts and sash locks. These can be put in place so that the window remains open to allow ventilation or for cleaning. They are generally not noticeable, since they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers that should be replaced with more robust versions (such ones with double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the chance of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames are traditionally made from oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept, and where feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced by identical wood. PVC-U companies usually offer a one stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows across a house in a day without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a significant amount of light to enter buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were adapted to allow more light into rooms and larger glass panes began to be produced. The result was a lighter look 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, whereas later Victorian ones could be 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 kept and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good shape. Lack of attention to them regularly can lead to:

Sashes that don't slide smoothly.

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

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

Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s and I930s due to their strength and slim, cheap and complemented the trend for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as thermally efficient as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The industry of replacement windows has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their windows are rotten, draughty and beyond repair. Many old windows made of timber can be fixed and used for a long time with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your window's sash, it could cause the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause paint and putty degrade. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to move out of alignment and not closing properly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or fixed in the open position and this can let water and draughts into the structure.

Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be avoided by thorough painting, periodic repairs, and removing the source of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified due to the wavy appearance of the paint that can be stripped away to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any rotten timber sections should be cut out and the affected part carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same type of wood as those remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric retained and is among the least invasive methods of treating timber-to-timber decay.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is an alternative to traditional staining or sanding. The product is brushed on to the surface of the timber to stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is especially beneficial for treating sash and pulley cords, where it can prevent breakage.

It is crucial to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery such as stay latches and sash latches. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also recommended that modern fittings made of aluminium, such as sashlifts and chainstays, are avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.

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