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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 feature traditional sash window and homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture which can cause the wood to swell.

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

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes and are modular, are able to be restored to original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and comply with conservation area regulations. It also offers windows that are superior to uPVC alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However the production became more affordable and artisans could create larger frames using larger glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden style in British homes. As they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows were becoming more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the time but as glass production became more efficient and cheaper they became a feature of many period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, sturdy glass that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be made larger, which in turn gave an improved view. This was a significant improvement.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and the beginning of I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and allowed for better ventilation to the building.


The most common type of sash is made from slow grown deal (pine) but oak was used in the more prestigious buildings and in some earlier examples. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes and it is vital that it is well maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers are also vital for the proper operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger glass sheets became available, sash window began to replace hinged casements. Plate glass was placed in rebated timber frames, which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was applied to the frame's two sides for watertightness. This type of glazing gradually superseded leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes resulted in a need for a much greater variety of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, knobs and shutters, and a range of fasteners used to keep 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, without this maintenance they can become drafty and let in cold air. Putty and paint can cause draughts too. This can be corrected using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the belief that older windows are old and beyond repair, whereas they can be maintained with a bit of care. Repairs can be expensive and cause many disruptions in the home. To prevent this homeowners, many 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 home in a single day, saving time and avoiding the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. door repair cambridge can be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than traditional sash window. However these double-glazed units are unable to replicate the section and proportions of the sashes made of timber from the past.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their appearance. Many types of ironmongery can be installed, including sash chains, mortice bolts, and sash locks. These can be installed in such a way that the window can be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These windows are typically not noticeable since they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches, which must be replaced by more robust models (such as those incorporating double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the chance of them being hammered out.

Sash-window frames were constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more elegant homes made of oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and, if feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. PVC-U companies usually provide a one-stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on a complete home in a single day without the need to involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light to flood into the buildings. By the end 18th century, they had been adapted so that even more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also made. The result was a much more streamlined appearance, and windows with a higher quality of design than before.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded the creation of a new line of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, while later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood, and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be retained and cleaned down so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.

To ensure they remain in good shape, timber windows must be maintained. A lack of regular attention could lead to:

Sashes that no longer slide easily.

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

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

Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s & I930s because they were strong and slim, and also because they were cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash window are just as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The replacement window industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their traditional windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. The truth is that a lot of old windows made of timber are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be serviceable for many years to be.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can result in sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to become misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. The sash may also become stuck in the open position, which allows water and draughts into the building.

Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be prevented by thorough painting, periodic repairs, and removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. Any timber that is rotting should be cut out and the affected area should be carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made of the same kind of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount original fabric and is among the most minimally invasive methods of treating timber-to-timber rot.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to traditional staining and sanding. This is brushed onto the surface of the timber to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which help prevent the breakage.

It is crucial that any old ironmongery such as sash stays and latches be kept and restored rather than replaced. These items can be very difficult to replace without harming the the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings like sash lifts and chain stays is avoided whenever possible as they can cause corrosion and damage to timber frames and sashes.

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