What Will Sash Windows Cambridge Be Like In 100 Years?

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows may get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is usually due moisture, which can cause the wood to swell.

Box sash windows were historically operated with chains, cotton cords and lead weights. Modern sash window springs are hidden to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed to modular imperial sizes the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration to meet modern day energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation regulations for the area. It also provides windows with a superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used in large buildings or public buildings. However the production became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden design in British homes. As they were easy to open, sash windows let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

The first windows were made of clear glass however, in the 17th century, sash windows began to become more attractive.  RepairMyWindowsAndDoors  were initially made of colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time but as glass production improved and less expensive, they were a common feature in numerous period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, strong glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be made larger and, in turn, gave the viewer a better view. This was a significant improvement.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and at the beginning of I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s.

Oak was used for older and more luxurious buildings. It is important to maintain the parting bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will stop draughts and rattles. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are also essential for the proper operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As larger and clearer sheets of glass were made available, sash windows started replacing hinged casements. Plate glass was placed in frames made of timber, which were pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was applied to the frame's two sides for watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

Sashes were introduced, which led to a greater demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights and stoppers for sashes shutter hinges and handles and a variety of fasteners to secure the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engravings that identified the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. Without this maintenance they could become noisy. Putty and paint can also cause draughts. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber solutions.

The market for replacement windows rests on the belief that older windows are old and beyond economical repair, but they can be maintained with just a little care. However, repairs to these windows can be expensive and involve considerable disruption to the home. To prevent this homeowners often opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one the many "one-stop shop" installation companies. They can replace all windows in a home in one day, saving time and avoiding the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be supplied with 'energy saving' double-glazing to get higher energy efficiency ratings than are possible with traditional windows with sash. However double-glazed windows cannot reproduce the proportions and section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their aesthetics. Ironmongery like mortice bolts, sash chain, and sash lock can be put in place. They can be fitted so that the window remains able to be opened for ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically discrete since they are made to complement sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers, which should be replaced with more robust versions (such ones that have double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the possibility of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more luxurious homes made of oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and, if possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by matching wood. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take down and replace windows on an entire home in a single day, without involving other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a significant amount of light into the buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were adapted to allow even more light into rooms, and larger glazing panes began to be made. The result was a much lighter appearance and windows with a higher level of elegance than they had before.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, while later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a mixture of lead and wood, and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design.

To keep them in good condition, timber windows need to be maintained. Inattention to maintenance could lead to:

Sashes that don't slide easily.

holes in the frame allow water that can cause decay and damage.

Water can get into the putty and cause decay to the frame or cause cill.

In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their strength slim and affordable and also matched the fashion for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient thermally as double-glazed PVC-u windows and are more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows.

The replacement window industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten drafty, noisy and beyond repair. The truth is that a lot of older timber windows are in good condition and with minor repairs could easily be repaired for many years to come.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do this could result in the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars, and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of the sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to become misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. The sash can also be stuck in an open position, which allows water and draughts into the building.

Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided with regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable due to the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped to reveal soft, rotting wood. The rotten timber sections should be carefully cut out and the affected area should be scarfed together or pieced together with replacements of the exact nature as the rest of the timber. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric left, and is among the least invasive methods for treating decay caused by timber.

A resin-based wood condenser is a viable alternative to traditional process of sanding or staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the timber to stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which can help prevent breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery, such as stay latches and sash latches. It is difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also advised that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts and chainstays, are avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.