Notes

The Secret Life Of Double Glazing Windows Cambridgeshire
Sash Windows Repair

Sash windows are an impressive blend of modern engineering with traditional look. They are 100% airtight and require no maintenance other than cleaning them weekly.

Poor maintenance can lead to the cill sagging, the loss of putties on the glazing and decay at the junction of the pulley stile and the cill. These issues are all capable of being repaired on site or in the workshop.

Replacement of cords for sash

A lack of maintenance can result in draughts, rattles and problems with the opening and closing of a window. It can also cause structural movement in the frame and deform sashes. The damage could cause the putty to break down and the paint to peel, allowing water to enter the wood and creating decay. Additionally, sash cords may become stiff and susceptible to break. Many of these problems can be repaired.

The wood used in older windows made of sash has a greater density than the wood used in contemporary replacements. This makes it last for centuries. Like all materials, if it is not regularly maintained, it will begin to deteriorate.

To ensure that windows in sash are in good condition, the cords must be taut and the wood well waxed. The cords used for windows with sash can be made of cotton, jute or nylon. Metal chains can be used to replace them. The ideal replacement cords should be placed over the pulley wheel using a parting bead to separate the two sashes. The cords are then tacked to the weights, and the counterweights can be adjusted to balance the sashes.

Generally speaking, the pulleys must be replaced with a similar type to the original to prevent damage. Weights are made of iron, brass or a mix of the two. The replacements could be a little bigger than the originals and could cause problems when operating. The sash must be opened in the correct position prior to replacing the counterweights. It is crucial to be able close the window without hitting it shut.

Ironmongery can be used to increase security, make a sash-window draft-proof, while still allowing for ventilation and cleaning. These include sashlocks as well as dual screws and anti-lift devices. They are fairly inexpensive and can be fitted to a traditional window while conserving its historic appearance. They are typically less visible than more intrusive security fittings, such as a sash-window chains or sash catcher.

Replacement of the sashweights

A sash is a double-glazed sliding window that can be raised and lowered to open or close the window. It is secured by pulleys or sash cords and a split bead. These sash cords and weights have to be kept in good condition to ensure that the window stays in position. If a sash becomes too heavy or is sagging, it can lead to broken sash cables or loose beading. Regular maintenance and repair is the best way to ensure that a sash is in good functioning condition.

In many instances older windows can be restored without removing them from the frame. In these cases, casing and sash are removed from the workshop or joiner's shop and then repaired. This type of repair ensures the best preservation of the original fabric and prevents re-creating problems such as draughts or rot within the wall frame. The damaged timber is then strengthened with a filler or resin consolidant to enable the window to be fully functional once again.

Wood sash were made from slow-growing deal (pine) until the late eighteenth century and are generally more dense than modern wood, making them more durable. In the late eighteenth century, window dimensions had also been standardized. Local window companies have a range of Boston Pattern sash that will fit most older windows. Replacement windows for sash windows that aren't designed to meet these standards will require custom measurements of the window frame members, which can detract from the historic character of an building. Additionally, replacement ironmongery needs to be carefully selected to ensure that the new pieces work well, while maintaining historical accuracy. This can be a difficult task, as the many fasteners on the sash windows are usually hidden by layers of paint or varnish. However, removing these layers of paint will reveal the intricate design and craftsmanship that was used to create the original window.

Replacement of sash catches

A sash is a kind of classic window that has glass panes that move within a frame. It is typically divided into two parts, namely the top and bottom sashes. It is moved by cords, weights, or more recently spiral balances. The sashes can be opened by sliding them up and down, dependent on the style of the window. They are often also fixed to the mid rail with handles to hold them in their place.

If a sash is damaged, it could cause problems in the home, like water leaks, and difficulties moving windows up and down. It is crucial to recognize the time when a sash is in need of replacement to be able to make an informed decision.

You can identify if the window sash needs replacement by inspecting it for signs of decay. These may include mold, mildew or scratches on the wood. You can also feel the wood for moisture, which is a sign that it's time to replace the sash.

The sash's components may be damaged through misuse or a lack of maintenance. For example, holes drilled through the frame to allow cable entry could let water in and cause the onset of rot. Other indications of a sash in need of replacement include paint loss, a broken cord for the sash, or an sash that no longer fits correctly.

Many homeowners worry about the cost to replace their sash windows. However, it is important to determine how much your window is worth. In many cases, it is possible to salvage the existing timber and then repair or replace the sash instead of tearing out the entire window and re-starting. This could save you an enormous amount of money as well as maintain your original windows. To avoid costly mistakes it is crucial to seek out a reputable professional before making any repairs or replacing your windows. They can also provide advice on the best solution to fit your home based on your budget and specific requirements. They can also provide an estimate of how much it will be to repair or replace the sash.

Replacement of the sash pulleys

Sash windows typically come with a complicated and delicate mechanism that requires regular maintenance and repairs. They can be damaged and become difficult to operate without it. They can also be noisy and dangerous, posing a health and fire risk. However windows with sash windows that are older can be restored to their former glory with low cost and with little intrusion into the structure of a building. They can be made draughtproof, safe and comply with the insurance requirements. They can be preserved for future generations.

Traditional wooden frames can be damaged by weathering and decay. Water can easily penetrate the cill or bottom section of windows frames. It can be strengthened with angle brackets made of metal that can be positioned over the top of the existing cill, and integrated into the sub-cill of masonry. Oak is a suitable hardwood for new cills. To preserve as much of the original fabric as possible it is crucial to carefully piece in new timber.


In the eighteenth century the sash windows were typically milled from slow-grown deal (pine) and in rare cases, from oak. They were designed to last for a long time, and are considered a real feature of historic buildings. Repairing and replacing these sash windows should be done using the same type of timber to avoid differential movement between the old and new parts.

A variety of ironmongery components are necessary to the operation of a double-glazed sash window. This includes a brass or hardwood pulley, cast-iron or lead weights and shutter hinges and knobs. These should all be kept in good working order and repaired or replaced when needed. They can help keep the sash in the correct place, and stop it from collapsing or sticking. cambridge double glazing Repair My Windows And Doors can also be used to open the sash for ventilation and cleaning. A range of security fittings are also available for sash windows that are typically non-detracting and will not alter the appearance of a period home. They include height restrainers, dual screws and anti-lift devices.

Homepage: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/cambridge-windowrepair/