An Easy-To-Follow Guide To Sash Windows Cambridge

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in upvc locksmith cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and 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, cotton cords or lead weights to operate. Modern sash window springs are hidden to eliminate this issue.

1. Aesthetics

In contrast to PVC-u windows, which are constructed to modular imperial sizes, timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This lets the restoration meet modern day energy requirements while still complying with conservation areas regulations. It also comes with an option that is superior to the Upvc repairs 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 more glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass but by the 17th century sash windows started to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. These were very expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and cheaper they were a common feature in numerous period houses.

By the 19th century it was possible to create large, strong glass that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be enlarged, which in turn gave an improved view. This was an important innovation.

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

Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is important to maintain the separation 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

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets were made available. Plate glass was set into frames made of timber, which were which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was then sprayed onto both sides of the frame for watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced led lights.

The introduction of sashes resulted in the need for a greater variety of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes into the right place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and designs that were engraved to identify the maker.

Sash windows are energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. If they are not maintained they could become drafty. Putty and paint can cause draughts. It is possible to fix this issue with wood-to-timber products.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the notion that old windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a little attention. However, these upvc repairs are costly and can cause considerable disruption to the home. To avoid this, many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the largest "one-stop shop" installation companies. They can replace and remove all the windows in a home within a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much quicker. They are also available with 'energy-saving' double-glazing, which can achieve greater energy efficiency than traditional sash windows. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions or section of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their aesthetics. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain, and sash lock can be used. These can be installed so that the window remains capable of being opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. They are generally not noticeable, since they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used alongside traditional sash-window doctor near me catches, which must be replaced by more robust versions (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring levers to decrease the chance of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window mechnism repair frames are typically constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept, and if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take down and replace windows on a complete home in one day, without involving any other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a significant amount of light to flood into buildings. By the end 18th century, they had been adapted so that even more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also created. The result was a lighter look and windows that were more elegant.

Sash windows were introduced and required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were made out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of wood and lead. There were also a variety of kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. Ironmongery elements must be maintained and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.

To ensure they remain in good shape, timber windows require regular maintenance. A lack of attention to them regularly could cause:

Sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

Holes in the frame that 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.

Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s & I930s because they were sturdy and slim, and also because they were cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as efficient thermally as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and are more attractive than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows.

The window replacement industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were decayed, drafty and beyond economical repair. Many old timber windows are repairable and can be used for a long time with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your sash window, it can result in the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to become damaged. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movements within the frame, causing the sash not to close correctly. The sash could also get stuck in an open position, which allows water and draughts to enter the building.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by water infiltration. This can be prevented with thorough painting, periodic upvc door repairs and the elimination of the source of dampness. Wet rot can be identified due to the wavy appearance of the existing paint which can be removed to reveal soft, rotting wood. Any rotten timber sections should be cut out and the affected area carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same type of wood as the ones remaining. This method of repair increases the amount original fabric and is one of most non-invasive methods to treat the rot that occurs between timber and timber.

A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to traditional staining or sanding. The product is brushed on to the surface of the wood to help stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly beneficial for the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which can help prevent the breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any historic ironmongery, like sash latches and stays. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that fittings made of aluminum like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, are avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.