How To Make An Amazing Instagram Video About Sash Windows Cambridge

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or shut. This is often due to moisture which can cause the timber to swell.

Traditionally, box sash windows utilized chains or cotton cords and lead weights to operate. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to avoid this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes that are modular, can be restored to original dimensions. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows in order to comply with current energy standards and comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also provides an option that is superior to uPVC options.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used for large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became more affordable and artisans could create larger frames using greater glass. By the late 18th century sash windows were the dominant wooden windows cambridge design in most British properties. Since they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

Early windows were plain glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows started to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they were a common feature in many period houses.

By the 19th century it was possible to create large, sturdy glass that did not need support bars. This allowed the frame's size to be enlarged more, which in turn meant more of a view out of the window. This was a significant innovation.

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

Oak was used in older and more luxurious buildings. It is essential to keep the separation bead that separates the sashes. This will stop rattles and draughts. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good working order as they assist in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets were made available. Glass plates were set in rebated timber frames, which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was sprayed on both sides of the frame for watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes created a need for a much larger variety of ironmongery with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners to hold the sashes to their place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engravings that identified the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. However, if they are not maintained, they can become drafty and let in cold air. Putty and paint can cause draughts too. This can be remedied by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the perception that old windows are beyond door seal repair near me and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a little attention. However, these repairs can be expensive and involve considerable disruption to the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows with PVC-u from a "one-stop shop" company for installation. These can remove and replace all windows in a home in a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much quicker. They can also be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to get higher energy efficiency ratings than are possible with traditional sash windows. However double Glazed door repairs-glazed windows cannot duplicate the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. A variety of ironmongery types can be installed, including sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. They can be fitted in a manner that the window is able to be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually not noticeable, since they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used alongside traditional sash window catches and should be replaced with more robust models (such ones with double screws) or spring levers to decrease the risk of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames are typically made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are intact, they should be retained. If possible, the timber cills should be replaced with wood that matches. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop installation service. They can take down and replace windows throughout a home in a single day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a substantial amount of light into structures. By the end 18th century, they had been modified so that more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also created. The result was a much more streamlined appearance, and windows with a greater quality of design than before.

Sash windows were introduced and required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of leaded and wood. There were also a variety of types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be kept and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

To keep them in good condition, wooden windows require regular maintenance. Inattention to maintenance could lead to:

Sashes that do not slide effortlessly.

holes in the frame that allow water causing damage and decay.

break down of the putty and allow water penetration that could lead to decay of the frame and cill.

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity because they were strong slim and inexpensive and also matched the fashion for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash windows are just as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their traditional windows are dirty, noisy and beyond repair. The reality is that many old windows made of wood are in good condition and with minor repairs can easily be maintained for years to be.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this could result in the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to move out of alignment and in a position that it is not able to close properly. The sash may also become stuck in an open position, allowing the water and drafts to enter the property.

The damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture infiltration. This can be avoided by thorough painting, regular repairs and the elimination of the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten timber sections must be removed and the affected part carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same kind of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric used in the first place and is one of most non-invasive methods to treat timber-to-timber rot.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to traditional sanding and staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the timber to help stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is especially useful to treat pulley cords and sash which can stop breakage.

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