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5 Killer Quora Answers On Sash Windows Cambridge
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

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

Box sash windows were historically operated with chains or cotton cords, as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to overcome this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes and are modular, are able to be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration to be in line with modern energy requirements while complying with conservation area regulations. It also offers a window with a far superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were originally only found in large buildings or public buildings, but the production process became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. By the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant wooden design in most British homes. Because they were simple to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.

The early windows were made of glass that was plain However, in the 17th century sash windows started to become more attractive. They started with coloured glazing bars, also known as mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time but as glass production improved and cost-effective, they became a feature of many of the period homes.

In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, sturdy glass that didn't require support bars. Repair My Windows And Doors allowed the frame size to be increased even more, which in turn meant more of a view out of the window. This was a significant innovation.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash is another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s.

The most commonly used type of sash is constructed of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was also used in more luxurious buildings and in earlier examples. It is essential to keep the separation bead that separates the sashes. This will stop rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers are also essential to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets were made available. Plate glass was set into frames made of timber, which were pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on the frame's two sides for watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes created the need for a larger variety of ironmongery including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs as well as a range of fasteners to hold the sashes in the right place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engraved patterns that identified the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. However, if they are not maintained, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of putty and paint. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber solutions.


The replacement window industry relies heavily on the notion that older windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a little attention. These repairs can be expensive and cause many disruptions in the home. To prevent this homeowners often opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, thereby saving time and avoiding the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. They are also available with energy-saving double-glazing to achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than traditional sash windows. Double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions and section of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their aesthetics. There are many types of ironmongery that can be installed including sash chains mortice bolts, and locks for sash. These can be put in place in a way that the window remains open for ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catch. These are best replaced with more robust versions, such as those with double screws or spring levers, to minimize the chance of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames are usually made of oak or slow-grown deal. When glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and where possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with matching wood. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on an entire home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were first 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 so that even more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also created. The result was a more streamlined appearance, and windows with a greater quality of design than before.

Sash windows were introduced, which required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of leaded and wood. There were also different types of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be maintained and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. A lack of regular attention could lead to:

sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

holes in the frame allow water, which can cause damage and decay.

break down of the putty and allow water to penetrate, which can lead to decay in the frame and cill.

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows gained popularity because they were strong slim and affordable and also matched the fashion for healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash windows are as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The industry of replacement windows has done a lot to convince homeowners that their traditional windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. However, many old timber windows are in good shape and, with minor repairs, could easily be maintained for years to come.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can result in broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of the sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to move out of alignment and unable to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or slammed into an open position and let water and draughts enter the structure.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by water infiltration. This can be prevented by regular maintenance as well as thorough painting, and then removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. Any timber that is rotting should be cut off and the affected area carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made of the same type of wood as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric that is left and is among the least invasive methods of treating decay of timber to timber.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to the traditional method of staining and sanding. This is brushed onto the surface of the timber to stabilise and protect it from further damage. It is especially useful for treating pulley cords and sash, which can stop breakage.

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

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