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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. However, sash windows may become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture which can cause the wood to swell. Box sash windows were traditionally operated using chains or cotton cords as well as lead weights. 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 and are modular, can be reconstructed to original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also provides a window with a far superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives. Sliding windows with sash were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became cheaper and artisans could create larger frames using more glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows were the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Because they were simple to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains. Early windows were plain glass, but in the 17th century sash windows began to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time but as glass production improved and cheaper they became a feature of many period houses. In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, strong glass that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame's size to increase further, which meant more of a view from the window. This was a very important innovation. The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made in the I920s and the beginning of the I930s. windows and doors cambridge -hung sliding sash was another important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s. The most common type of sash is made from slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was also used in more prestigious buildings and in some earlier examples. It is essential to keep the parting bead which divides the sashes. This will stop draughts and rattles. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good shape as they assist in operating the window. 2. Energy efficiency As larger and clearer sheets of glass became available, sash window started replacing hinged casements. Plate glass was set into frames made of timber, which were pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to both sides of the frame to ensure watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced the use of leaded lights. The introduction of sashes led to the need for a wider range of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops, shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes into the right place. These were usually decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engravings to identify the maker. Sash windows can be extremely energy-efficient with regular maintenance. However, if they are not maintained, they can become draughty and let in cold air. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of paint and putty. This can be fixed by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary. The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the perception that old windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a little attention. However, these repairs can be expensive and involve substantial disruption to the home. To prevent this, many homeowners opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can take down and replace all windows in a home within a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much quicker. They can also be fitted with 'energy saving' double-glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than are possible with traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions or section of sashes from old timber. 3. Security Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their style. Many types of ironmongery are available including sash chains mortice bolts, and sash locks. They can be positioned in such a way that the window is able to be open for ventilation and cleaning. These products are often not noticeable since they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash window catches, which must be replaced by more robust models (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring levers to decrease the risk of them being hammered open. Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more luxurious homes made of oak. If the glazing bars are in good condition, they should be retained. If it is possible, the timber cills should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. Many PVC-U firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows throughout a home in one day, without involving any other tradespeople. 4. Ventilation Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a significant amount of light into buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were modified so that more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also made. The result was a more light appearance and windows with more elegance. The introduction of sash windows also necessitated a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, whereas later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a combination of lead and wood, and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be retained and cleaned down so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated. To keep them in good condition, timber windows must be maintained. A lack of regular attention can result in: Sashes that do not slide easily. holes in the frame that allow water that can cause decay and damage. break down of the putty and allow water to penetrate, which could lead to decay of the frame and cill. Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s & I930s due to their strength and slim, cheap and complemented the trend for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash windows are just as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive. The industry of replacement windows has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were decayed drafty, noisy and beyond repair. The reality is that many old timber windows are in good shape and, with minor repairs, could easily be repaired for many years to be. 5. Maintenance Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do this can result in broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of sashes can also cause structural movement in the frame, causing the sash to not close correctly. The sash can also be stuck in its open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the property. The damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture penetration. This can be avoided by thorough painting, regular repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten timber sections should be cut off and the affected part carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made of the same type of timber as the ones that remain. This method of repair maximises the amount of fabric left, and is one of the least invasive methods of treating decay of timber to timber. The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is another alternative to traditional staining and sanding. It is brushed on the surface of the wood to help stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is especially beneficial for treating pulley cords and sash, where it can prevent breakage. It is essential that any historic ironmongery such as sash stay and latches are kept and restored instead of replacing them. These items can be very difficult to replace without damaging the the original design. It is also advised that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.