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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows may become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture, which can cause the timber to swell. Traditionally, window boxes utilized chains or cotton cord and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to address this problem. 1. Aesthetics Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes that are modular, can be restored to their original dimensions. This lets the restoration meet the current energy standards while ensuring compliance with conservation regulations for the area. It also provides an option that is superior to the uPVC alternatives. Sliding windows with sash were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However, this changed when production became cheaper and artisans could produce larger frames with greater glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden design in British homes. Because they were simple to open, sash windows let light into rooms without the need for curtains. The first windows were made of clear glass, but by the 17th Century, sash windows began to become more attractive. They were initially made of colored glazing bars or mullions. They were expensive initially, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were a common feature in many homes of the period. By the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, strong glass that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame's size to be enlarged more, which in turn gave a better view out of the window. This was a very important advancement. The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made towards the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened at the same time and also improved the ventilation of buildings. The most popular kind of sash is made from slow grown deal (pine) but oak was also used in more luxurious buildings and in earlier examples. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes and it is vital that it is maintained to 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 replaced hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets became available. Plate glass was placed in frames made of timber, which were which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was applied to both sides of the frame for watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced leaded lights. The introduction of sashes resulted in an need for a larger variety of ironmongery including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges, knobs and shutters, and a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes into place. These were usually decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engravings to identify the maker. Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. But, if you don't maintain them, they can become draughty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can cause draughts. This can be corrected using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose. The replacement window industry relies on the belief that old windows are damaged and beyond repair, but they can be maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows can be expensive and involve substantial disruption to the home. Many homeowners choose to replace their windows using PVC-u from a huge 'one-stop shop' installation company. They can take down and replace all windows in a home in a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the entire process much faster. They can also be supplied with 'energy saving' double-glazing to achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than those offered by traditional windows made of sash. However turning lock cambridge -glazed windows cannot replicate the section and proportions of traditional timber sashes. 3. Security It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising on their aesthetics. Ironmongery such as sash chain, mortice bolts, and sash lock can be installed. They can be positioned in such a way that the window can be open for ventilation and cleaning. These products are often unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches, which must be replaced by more robust models (such ones with double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the possibility of them being hammered open. Sash-window frames are typically made of oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars remain in good condition, they should be retained. Where possible, the timber cills should be replaced by wood that is in line with. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop installation service. They can take down and replace windows throughout a house in just one day, without involving any other tradespeople. 4. Ventilation Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a huge amount of light into buildings. By the end 18th century, they were modified so that more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also produced. The result was a more light appearance and windows that were more elegant. Sash windows were introduced and required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a combination of lead and wood, and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be maintained and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated. Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good order. A lack of attention to them regularly could lead to: Sashes that don't slide easily. holes in the frame that allow water causing damage and decay. Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or the cill. Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s and I930s because they were strong and slim, cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows are as thermally efficient as double-glazed PVC-u windows and can be more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows. The window replacement industry has done a lot to convince homeowners that their windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. The reality is that many older windows made of wood are in good condition and with minor repairs can easily be repaired for many years to be. 5. Maintenance The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this could result in broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame, which can cause the sash not to close properly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or fixed in an open position and let water and draughts in the structure. The damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture infiltration. This can be prevented by regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. The rotten timber sections should be carefully removed, and the affected area should be snared together or glued together with replacements of the exact nature as the rest of the timber. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric that was originally used and is among the most minimally invasive methods of treating timber-to-timber rot. The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to traditional staining and sanding. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is especially beneficial for treating pulley cords and sash, where it can prevent breakage. It is important that any historic ironmongery such as sash stays and latches are retained and rehabilitated instead of being replacing them. These items can be very difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings, such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided whenever possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration to frames and sashes made of timber.