Notes

The Sash Windows Cambridge Success Story You'll Never Remember
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can become stuck and be difficult to open or shut. This is often due to moisture which can cause the timber to expand.

Box sash windows were previously operated by chains or cotton cords, as well as weights made of lead. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are made to modular imperial sizes, timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration to be in line with modern energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation area regulations. It also provides windows with a superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However the production became more affordable and artisans could make larger frames using larger 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 allowed light to enter rooms without the need for curtains.

The first windows were made of clear glass, but in the 17th century the sash windows began to become more attractive. www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at the beginning 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 manufacture large, sturdy glass that did not require supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be made larger and, in turn, gave an improved view. This was a significant advancement.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and the beginning of 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 more prestigious buildings. It is important to maintain the parting bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will stop draughts and rattles. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good working order as they aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets became available. They were coated with plate glass that was placed within timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which resulted in increased demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and handles as well as various fasteners used to fix the sashes. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or designs that were engraved to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. Without this maintenance they could become drafty. Paint and putty may cause draughts too. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber solutions.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the belief that older windows are beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a little attention. Repairs can be expensive and cause a lot of disruption in the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows using PVC-u from a 'one-stop shop' installation company. They can take down and replace all the windows in a house within a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen, making the whole process much faster. They are also available with energy-saving double-glazing to achieve greater energy efficiency than those offered by traditional windows with sash. Double-glazed windows aren't able to replicate the proportions or section of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery like mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be used. They can be positioned in a manner that the window can still be open for ventilation and cleaning. They are generally unobtrusive, as they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used alongside traditional sash-window catchers, which are required to be replaced with more robust versions (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the chance of them being hammered open.


Sash-window frames are typically made of oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are still in good condition, they should be retained. If it is it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced by timber that is compatible with. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on an entire house in just one day, without involving other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a large amount of light to enter buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were altered to allow even more light into rooms, and larger glass panes began to be made. The result was a more light appearance and windows with more elegance.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, while later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a mixture of lead and wood, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be maintained and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

To keep them in good condition, timber windows need to be maintained. Inattention to maintenance could lead to:

sashes that no longer slide easily.

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

The putty can be soaked by water and cause decay to the frame or the cill.

In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their strength, slim and cheap, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash window are as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The replacement window industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. The truth is that a lot of old timber windows are in good shape and with minor repairs could easily be repaired for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this could result in sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of the sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to become misaligned and not closing properly. The sash could also get stuck in the open position, which allows the water and drafts to enter the building.

Damage to windows made of timber is usually caused by moisture entry. This can be avoided with regular repairs by thorough painting and eliminating the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. The sections that are rotting should be carefully cut out and the affected part should be snared together or pieced together by using replacements of the same type as the remaining timber. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric that is left and is one of the least invasive methods for treating decay caused by timber.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is a viable alternative to traditional process of sanding or staining. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is particularly beneficial for the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which help stop breakage.

It is crucial to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery, such as the sash latches and stays. It can be difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also advised that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, be avoided as they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.

Here's my website: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/cambridge-windowrepair/