How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and become difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture, which can cause the timber to swell.
Box sash windows were previously operated using chains or cotton cords as well as lead weights. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to overcome this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes and are modular, are able to be restored to their original size. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and comply with conservation area regulations. It also comes with an option that is superior to the uPVC options.
Sliding windows with sash were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However the production became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with larger glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light into rooms without the use of curtains.
The early windows were made of plain glass, but by the 17th Century sash windows started to be more decorative. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive at the beginning but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became commonplace in many period houses.
In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, strong glass that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame to be enlarged and, in turn, gave a better view. This was an important improvement.
Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened at the same time and gave improved ventilation to the building.
Oak was used for older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is important to maintain the separation bead that separates the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. It is also essential that sash pulleys and idler wheels are in good working order as they help to operate the window.
2. Energy efficiency
Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets became available. Plate glass was placed in frames of timber that were rebated, then pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to the frame's two sides for watertightness. This type of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.
The introduction of sashes resulted in an need for a greater variety of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, knobs and shutters and a variety of fasteners used to keep the sashes into the right place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and designs that were engraved to identify the maker.
Sash windows can be very energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. However, if they are not maintained, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of paint and putty. This issue can be fixed with wood-to-timber products.
The market for replacement windows rests on the assumption that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, while they can be easily maintained with just a little care. Repairs can be costly and cause a lot of disruption in the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows using double glazing in cambridge PVC-u from a large "one-stop shop" company for installation. They can replace and remove all windows in a house within a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much more efficient. They are also available with 'energy-saving' double-glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than those offered by traditional sash windows. However these double-glazed units are unable to reproduce the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.
3. Security
Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their aesthetics. Many types of ironmongery can be installed with sash chains, mortice bolts, and locks for sash. These can be installed in a way that the window is still open for ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically not noticeable since they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catch. They are best replaced with more robust versions, such as ones that have double screws or sprung levers, to minimize the possibility of being struck by hammers.
Sash-window frames are traditionally made from oak or slow-grown deal. When glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and where 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 remove and replace windows on a complete house in just one day, without involving any other tradespeople.
4. Ventilation
When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light into the buildings. At the end of the 18th century they were altered to allow even more light into rooms and bigger glazing panes started to be manufactured. The result was a much lighter appearance and windows that had a higher quality of design than before.
The introduction of sash windows also required the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of leaded and wood. There were also a variety of kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be kept and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.
Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good order. Inattention to maintenance routinely could lead to:
sashes that no longer slide easily.
Holes in the frame which allow water to enter and cause decay and damage.
break down of the putty and allow water penetration that could cause decay in the frame and cill.
In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows gained popularity due to their strength, slim and cheap, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient in thermal efficiency as double-glazed PVC-u windows and are more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows.
The window replacement industry has done a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows are rotten, draughty and beyond repair. Many old windows made of timber are repairable and can be used for a long time with minor repairs.
5. Maintenance
A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your sash window, it could result in the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame, causing the sash not to close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or slammed into an open position, which can let water and draughts in the structure.
Damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented by thorough painting, regular repairs and the elimination of the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy appearance of the existing paint which can be stripped away to reveal soft, rotting timber. Any timber that is rotting should be cut off and the affected area carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same kind of timber as the ones remaining. This repair method increases the amount of fabric used in the first place 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 sanding or staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the timber to help stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is especially useful to treat pulley cords and sash which can stop breakage.
It is crucial that any ironmongery from the past like sash stays and latches be kept and rehabilitated instead of being replaced. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that fittings made of aluminum like sashlifts and chainstays, are avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.