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15 Amazing Facts About Sash Windows Cambridge
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can become stuck and become difficult to open and close. wooden windows and doors cambridge is often due to moisture which can cause the timber to expand.

Box sash windows were traditionally operated with chains or cotton cords, as well as lead weights. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to overcome this problem.

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 size. This lets the restoration meet the current energy standards while still complying with conservation areas regulations. It also offers windows with a superior appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, but this changed as production became cheaper and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. In the 18th century, Sash windows were the most popular wooden design in most British homes. Since they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.

The early windows were made of clear glass however, by the 17th Century the sash windows began to be more decorative. They started with coloured glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were costly initially, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were an integral feature in many homes of the period.

By the 19th century it was possible to create large, strong glass that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame's size to be increased even more, which in turn meant more of a view out of the window. This was a very important innovation.

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

The most commonly used kind of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was also used in more luxurious buildings and in some earlier examples. It is important to maintain the parting bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will prevent rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers are also vital to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger sheets of glass became available, sash window started replacing hinged casements. Plate glass was placed in frames made of timber, which were which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was then sprayed onto both sides of the frame to ensure watertightness. This form of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

The introduction of sashes created a need for a much greater variety of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops, shutter hinges and knobs as well as a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes in the right place. They were often decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be extremely energy-efficient with regular maintenance. However, without this maintenance they can become draughty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of putty and paint. This can be corrected using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the perception that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, while they can be easily maintained with a bit of care. Repairs can be costly and cause many disruptions in the home. Many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u from a huge "one-stop shop" installation company. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and eliminating the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving double glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions or section of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

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

Sash-window frames were constructed from slow grown deal or, in the more luxurious homes they were made from oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept, and if it is feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. PVC-U companies usually offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on an entire home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a significant amount of light to enter buildings. By the end 18th century, they were modified to allow 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 and required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of leaded and wood. There were also various types of knobs and shutter hinges. The ironmongery pieces need to 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 cause:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

holes in the frame allow water, which can 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 grew in popularity due to their durability 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 did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten drafty, noisy and beyond repair. The reality is that many older windows made of wood are in good shape and, with minor repairs, could easily be repaired for many years to be.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it could result in the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It could also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes can also cause structural movement in the frame, which can cause the sash not to close properly. The sash could also get stuck in an open position, which allows water and draughts to enter the building.

Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided with regular repairs, thorough painting and removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. The rotten timber sections should be carefully cut out and the affected area should be snared together or pieced together with replacements of the exact type as the remaining timber. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric retained and is among the least invasive methods of treating decay caused by timber.

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


It is essential to preserve and not replace any historic ironmongery, such as the sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without damaging the quality of the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings, such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided if at all feasible as they could cause corrosion and damage to timber frames and sashes.

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