Buzzwords De-Buzzed: 10 More Ways Of Saying Sash Windows Cambridge

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of the way they look. Sash windows can get stuck and become difficult to open or shut. This is often due moisture that can cause the timber to expand.

Box sash windows were traditionally operated using chains, cotton cords and weights made of lead. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to overcome this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are made to modular imperial sizes Timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration to meet the current energy standards while complying with conservation area regulations. It also offers a window that is far superior to the uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash windows were originally only used in large structures or public buildings, though the production process became cheaper and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows were the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light into rooms without the need for 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 were very expensive at the time but as glass production became more efficient and less expensive, they became a feature of numerous period houses.

In the 19th century, it was possible to produce large, sturdy glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be made bigger, which in turn gave an improved view. This was a significant advancement.

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

Oak was used in older and more luxurious buildings. It is important to maintain the parting bead which is used to separate the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are essential to the operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets became available. They were glazed with plate glass set in timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This form of glazing gradually superseded the leaded light bulbs.

Sashes were introduced, which led to increased demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges as well as a variety of fasteners to fix the sashes. They were often decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engravings to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of putty and paint. This can be remedied by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the belief that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, but they can be maintained with just a little care. These repairs can be expensive and cause lots of disruption to the home. To avoid this homeowners often opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one of the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. These can remove and replace all the windows in a house within a single day, eliminating the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much more efficient. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving double glazing to get higher energy ratings than the traditional windows with sash. However double-glazed windows cannot duplicate the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3.  double glazing in cambridge RepairMyWindowsAndDoors  is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their appearance. Many types of ironmongery can be installed including sash chains mortice bolts, and locks for sash. These can be installed so that the window is capable of being opened to allow ventilation or cleaning. These products are usually minimal in appearance, as they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash window catches, which should be replaced with more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the risk of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow grown deal or, in the more elegant homes made of oak. If the glazing bars are in good condition, they should be retained. If possible, the timber cills should be replaced by wood that is in line with. Many PVC-U firms offer a one-stop installation service. They can remove and replace windows on an entire home in one day, without involving any other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light 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 created. The result was a lighter look and windows with more elegance.

Sash windows were introduced, which required a new type of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, while later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood, and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be kept and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good condition. Lack of attention to them regularly could lead to:

Sashes that do not slide easily.

Holes in the frame which allow water to get in and cause decay and damage.

break down of the putty and allow water penetration that could lead to decay of the frame and cill.

Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s and I930s because they were sturdy and slim, cost-effective and complemented the trend for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are as efficient thermally as double-glazed PVC-u windows and can be more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows.

The industry of replacement windows did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed, drafty and beyond economical repair. The reality is that many older windows made of wood are in good condition and with minor repairs could easily be serviceable for many years to be.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your window's sash, it could result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It could also cause paint and putty become damaged. The removal of the sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to move out of alignment and in a position that it is not able to close properly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or slammed into an open position and this can let water and draughts into the property.

The damage to timber windows is often caused by water entry. This can be prevented by thorough painting, periodic repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. The sections that are rotting should be carefully cut out and the affected part should be scarfed or glued together using replacements of the same nature as the rest of the timber. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric left, and is among the least invasive methods of treating decay of timber to timber.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is another alternative to the traditional method of staining and sanding. It is brushed on the surface of the timber to help stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to prevent breakage.

It is essential that any historic ironmongery such as sash stays and latches are retained and restored rather than replacing them. These items can be very difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings like chain stays and sash lifts is avoided if at all feasible as they could cause corrosion and deterioration to timber frames and sashes.