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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. This is usually due to moisture, which can cause the timber to expand. Traditionally, window boxes utilised chains, cotton cords or lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to address this issue. 1. Aesthetics Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes that are modular, are able to be restored to original dimensions. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows to comply with current energy standards and to comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also offers windows that have a more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives. Sliding sash windows were initially only found in large buildings or public buildings, however this changed as production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to create larger frames using more glass. In the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant design of wood in the majority of British properties. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light into rooms without the need for curtains. The early windows were made of plain glass however, in the 17th century sash windows started to become more attractive. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at first, but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were a common feature in many homes of the period. In the 19th century, it was possible to produce large, sturdy glasses that didn't need supporting bars. This allowed the frame size to be enlarged further and this in turn allowed for a wider view from the window. This was an important innovation. Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously and allowed for better ventilation to the building. just click the next website of sash is made of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was used in the more expensive buildings as well as in earlier examples. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are also essential to the operation of the window. 2. Energy efficiency Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets were made available. They were made of plate glass, set in timber frames with rebates and then pinned with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This type of glass gradually replaced the use of leaded lights. The introduction of sashes created an need for a wider range of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners that secured the sashes into the right place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engravings that identified the maker. With regular maintenance, sash windows can be very energy efficient. Without this maintenance they could become drafty. Paint and putty can also cause draughts. This can be corrected using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose. The replacement window industry relies heavily on the perception that older windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a bit of attention. These 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 and remove all the windows in a house in a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the whole process much quicker. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to attain more energy efficient ratings than a traditional sash window. However these double-glazed units are unable to duplicate the proportions and section of historic timber sashes. 3. Security Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery, such as mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be put in place. These can be installed so that the window is still able to be opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. These are typically minimal in appearance, as they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. They should be replaced by more robust models like those that incorporate double screws, or sprung levers, to minimize the chance of being struck by hammers. Sash-window frames were traditionally made from slow-growing deal or, in the more elegant homes, from oak. When glazing bars have survived they should be kept, and, if possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by the same wood. Many PVC-u firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can take down and replace windows on an entire house in just one day, without involving other tradespeople. 4. Ventilation Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a huge amount of light to enter buildings. By the end of the 18th century, they were adapted to allow more light into rooms and larger glass panes began to be made. The result was a lighter appearance, and windows that had a higher quality of design than before. The introduction of sash windows also demanded an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of wood and lead. There were also different kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be kept and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated. Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good shape. A lack of regular attention can result in: Sashes that no longer slide smoothly. Holes in the frame which allow water to enter and cause damage and decay. Water can get into the putty and cause decay to the frame or cill. In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity because they were strong, slim and cheap, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash window are just as effective 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 old windows are old, dirty, and beyond economic repair. Many old windows made of timber can be fixed and used for many more years with minor repairs. 5. Maintenance A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your sash window, it can cause the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movements within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close properly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or slammed into an open position, which can let water and draughts into the structure. Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented by thorough painting, regular repairs and elimination of the source of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy look of the paint, which can be stripped to reveal soft, rotting wood. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut off and the affected area carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same kind of timber as those remaining. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric left, and is one of the least invasive ways of treating decay of timber to timber. A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to traditional sanding or staining. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is especially useful to treat pulley cords and sash, which can stop breakage. It is crucial that any historic ironmongery such as sash stays and latches are kept and restored rather than replacing them. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings, such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided whenever feasible as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.