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How To Create An Awesome Instagram Video 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 the way they look. Sash windows can get stuck and are difficult to open and close. This is typically due to moisture that can cause the wood to expand.

Box sash windows were historically operated using chains or cotton cords, as well as lead weights. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to avoid this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Unlike PVC-u windows that are made according to the modular imperial size the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original sizes. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows in order to meet the current energy requirements and comply with conservation area regulations. It also provides windows that are superior to the uPVC options.

Sliding sash windows were initially only found in large buildings or public buildings, though this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden design in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the need for curtains.

The early windows were made of plain glass however, in the 17th century the sash windows began to become more attractive. upvc door repairs were initially made of colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. These were very expensive at the time but as glass production improved and cost-effective, they were a common feature in many period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, strong glasses that didn't need support bars. This allowed the frame's size to be enlarged further, which allowed for a wider view from the window. This was a significant improvement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and also improved the ventilation of a building.

Oak was used for older examples and for more prestigious buildings. It is essential to keep the separation bead that separates the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are essential to the operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as clearer and larger sheets were made available. Plate glass was placed in frames made of timber, which were pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to the frame's sides to ensure watertightness. This type of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

Sashes were introduced, which led to increased demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers, shutter hinges and handles, and a variety of fasteners used to fix the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engravings to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. But, if you don't maintain them, they can become draughty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of putty and paint. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber solutions.

The replacement window industry relies heavily on the notion that older windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs are costly and can cause considerable disruption to the home. To prevent this homeowners often opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows made by one of the large 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace and remove all windows in an entire house in a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the whole process much quicker. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double glazing to get higher energy ratings than traditional sash window. These double-glazed windows aren't able to replicate the proportions and sections of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their appearance. A variety of ironmongery types can be fitted with sash chains, mortice bolts, and sash locks. They can be positioned in a manner that the window can still be open for ventilation and cleaning. They are usually discrete since they are made to complement sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches that should be replaced with more robust versions (such ones with double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the chance of them being hammered out.

Sash-window frames are usually made of oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept and, if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on a complete home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a huge amount of light into buildings. By the end 18th century, they were modified to allow 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 required an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and lead. There were also various kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their fine design.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. Inattention to maintenance routinely could lead to:

sashes that no longer slide easily.

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

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

Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s and I930s due to their strength and slim, and also because they were cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash windows are just as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.


The industry of replacement windows has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their windows are old, dirty, and beyond economic repair. However, many older windows made of timber are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be maintained for years to come.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your window's sash, it could cause the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movement within the frame, causing the sash not to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or fixed in an open position and let water and draughts in the structure.

Damage to windows made of timber is usually caused by moisture penetration. This can be prevented with thorough painting, regular repairs and the elimination of the source of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy appearance of the paint that can be removed to reveal soft, rotting timber. The sections of timber that are rotten must be removed with care and the affected part should be scarfed or pieced together with replacements of the exact kind as the timber that remains. This repair method increases the amount of fabric that was originally used and is among the most minimally invasive methods of treating timber-to-timber rot.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to traditional sanding and staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the timber to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which can help prevent the breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any historical ironmongery, like stay latches and sash latches. These items can be very difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings like chain stays and sash lifts is avoided if at all possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration to timber frames and sashes.

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