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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 can become stuck and difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture which can cause the wood to expand. Traditionally, box sash windows utilized chains or cotton cords and weights made of lead to operate. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to solve this problem. 1. Aesthetics Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed according to the modular imperial size, timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This lets the restoration meet the current energy standards while still complying with conservation area regulations. It also comes with an option that is superior to uPVC alternatives. Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used for large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became more affordable and artisans could make larger frames using greater glass. In the 18th century, sash windows were the dominant wooden style in a majority of British properties. 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 began to be more decorative. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. They were costly at the beginning but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were an integral feature in many historic homes. In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, sturdy glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to increase more, which in turn allowed for a wider view from the window. This was a very important innovation. The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that was made in the I920s and 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 common type of sash is constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was used in the more prestigious buildings and in some earlier examples. A split bead divides the two sashes and it is essential that it is maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good condition as these aid in operating the window. 2. Energy efficiency As larger and clearer glass sheets were made available, sash windows began to replace hinged casements. repairmywindowsanddoors were set in frames made of timber, which were secured with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to the frame's sides to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights. The introduction of sashes led to a need for a much wider range of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being 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 in the right place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and engravings that identified 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. 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 therefore cannot be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a little attention. However, these repairs can be costly and cause significant disruption to your home. To prevent this homeowners, many prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the many “one stop shop” installation companies. These can remove and replace all the windows in a house in a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the entire process much quicker. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving' double glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of replicating the proportions or section of historic timber sashes. 3. Security It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising on their aesthetics. There are many types of ironmongery that are available with sash chains, mortice bolts and sash locks. They can be positioned in a way so that the window can still be open for ventilation and cleaning. These are typically unobtrusive, as they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers that are required to be replaced with more robust versions (such ones that have double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the chance of them being hammered open. Sash-window frames were made from slow-growing deal or, in the more luxurious homes made of oak. If the glazing bars remain intact and are not damaged, they should be left. Where it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced by wood that is in line with. PVC-u companies often provide a one-stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows across a home in one day, without the need to engage other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers. 4. Ventilation When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a substantial amount of light to flood into the buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were modified to allow more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also produced. The result was a lighter appearance and windows that were more elegant. Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, whereas later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a mixture of wood and lead, and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces must be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their beautiful design. To ensure they remain in good shape, timber windows must be maintained. A lack of attention to them regularly could result in: sashes that no longer slide smoothly. Holes in the frame which allow water to get in and cause decay and damage. Water can get into the putty and cause decay to the frame or cause cill. Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s & I930s because they were strong and slim, and also because they were cheap and complemented the trend for healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows are just as thermally efficient as double-glazed PVC-u windows and are more attractive than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows. The industry of replacement windows was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed drafty, noisy and beyond repair. However, many older timber windows are in good shape and with minor repairs could easily be serviceable for many years to be. 5. Maintenance A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly can result in broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of sashes may also cause structural movement in 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 enter the structure. The damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture penetration. This can be prevented by regular maintenance as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy look of the paint that can be stripped away to reveal soft, rotting timber. Any rotten timber sections should be cut off and the affected part carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same type of wood as those remaining. 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 a different option to the traditional method of staining and sanding. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is especially useful for treating pulley cords and sash which can stop breakage. It is crucial to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery such as the sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without damaging the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.