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20 Things You Need To Be Educated About Sash Windows Cambridge
How to Restore replacement windows and doors cambridge Repair My Windows And Doors 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 usually due to moisture that can cause the timber to expand.

Traditionally, box sash windows utilized chains or cotton cords and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to solve this issue.

1. Aesthetics

In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are made according to imperial sizes that are modular Timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows to meet the current energy requirements and comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also offers windows with a more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, though this changed as production became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become 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 glass that was plain However, in the 17th century the sash windows began to become more attractive. They were initially made of colored glazing bars or mullions. They were costly initially, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became a common feature in many period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, strong glass that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame's size to be increased even further, which gave a better view from the window. This was a very important advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made in the I920s and beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.

The most commonly used type of sash is constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was also used in more luxurious buildings and in some earlier examples. A split bead divides the two sashes and it is vital that it is well maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. It is also essential that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good condition as these aid in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As larger and clearer sheets of glass were made available, sash windows began replacing hinged casements. Glass plates were set in frames made of timber, which were secured with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to both sides of the frame for watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

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

With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. If they are not maintained they can get noisy. Paint and putty can cause draughts too. This can be fixed by using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The market for replacement windows rests on the assumption that old windows are damaged and beyond economical repair, but they can be easily maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause significant disruption to your home. Many homeowners choose to replace their windows using PVC-u from a 'one-stop shop' installation company. They can replace and remove all the windows in a house in just one day, avoiding the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen, making the whole process much quicker. They are also available with 'energy saving' double-glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than those offered by traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions and section of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery like mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be installed. They can be positioned in a way so that the window can be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. They are usually unobtrusive as they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. They should be replaced with more robust models, such as those that incorporate double screws, or sprung levers in order to reduce the possibility of being hammered.

Sash-window frames were constructed from slow-growing deal or, in more prestigious houses, from oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept and if it is it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by matching wood. PVC-u companies often offer a one stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows on an entire house in a day without the need to engage other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a large amount of light into buildings. By the end of the 18th century, they were adapted to allow even more light into rooms, and larger glass panes began to be manufactured. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with a greater degree of elegance than before.

The introduction of sash windows also required the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and leaded. There were also different types of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be retained and cleaned down so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

To ensure they remain in good condition, wooden windows require regular maintenance. Lack of attention to them regularly 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 cill.

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their strength slim and inexpensive and also matched the fashion for healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash windows are just as effective as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their old windows are rotten, draughty and beyond repair. Many older timber windows are repairable and can be used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your sash window, it could lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It could also cause paint and putty deteriorate. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movements within the frame, causing the sash to not close properly. The sash could also get stuck in its open position, allowing water and draughts into the building.

The damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented with careful painting, regular repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified by the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped away to reveal soft, rotting wood. Any timber that is rotting should be cut off and the affected area carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same kind of timber as the ones that remain. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric left, and is among the least invasive ways of treating timber-to-timber decay.

A wood condenser made of resin is a viable alternative to traditional staining or sanding. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is particularly beneficial for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to prevent breakage.

It is important that any historic ironmongery like sash stays and latches are retained and restored instead of replaced. It can be difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.

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