How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in CambridgeMany homes in cambridge replacement windows feature traditional sash window and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can become stuck and are difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture which can cause the timber to swell.
Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilised chains or cotton cords and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash windows feature hidden springs to overcome this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Contrary to PVC-u windows which are made to modular imperial sizes Timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration to be in line with modern energy requirements while still complying with conservation area regulations. It also provides windows with a superior appearance than uPVC alternatives.
Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, but this changed as production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to make larger frames with more glass. By the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant wooden design in most British homes. As they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.
The early windows were made of plain glass, but in the 17th century the sash windows began to be more decorative. They started with coloured glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were expensive at the time but as glass production improved and cost-effective, they became a part of many period houses.
In the 19th century, it was possible to produce large, strong glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be made bigger which, in turn, provided a better view. This was an important innovation.
Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and the beginning of I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.
Oak was used in older examples and for more prestigious buildings. A parting bead separates the two sashes. It is important that this is maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good condition as these help to operate the plastic window repair.
2. Energy efficiency
As clearer and larger glass sheets became available, sash windows started replacing hinged casements. Plate glass repair cambridge was set into rebated timber frames, which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was then sprayed onto both sides of the frame for watertightness. This form of glazing gradually superseded the leaded light bulbs.
The introduction of sashes resulted in a need for a much larger variety of ironmongery with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners to hold the sashes into the right place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker.
With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. If they are not maintained, they can become draughty. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. You can fix this problem by using wood-to-timber products.
The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the perception that old windows are beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs can be expensive and involve substantial disruption to the home. Many homeowners decide to replace their windows with PVC-u from a huge 'one-stop shop' installation company. These can remove and replace all the windows in an entire house within a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much quicker. They can also be supplied with energy-saving double glazing cambridge-glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than those offered by traditional windows made of sash. However double-glazed windows cannot duplicate the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.
3. Security
Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery, such as sash chain, mortice bolts and sash locks can be installed. They can be positioned in such a way that the Window mechnism repair (https://fakenews.win/wiki/beware_of_these_trends_concerning_aluminium_windows_and_doors_cambridge) can be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These windows are typically discrete since they are made to work with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers and must be replaced by more robust models (such ones with double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the risk of them being hammered open.
Sash-window frames are traditionally made from oak or slow-grown deal. When glazing bars have survived they should be preserved, and, if possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by identical wood. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows across a home in one day, without the need to engage other tradespeople or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers.
4. Ventilation
When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a significant amount of light to flood into the buildings. In the 18th century, they had been modified so that more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also created. The result was a more light appearance and windows with more elegance.
The introduction of sash windows also required a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and leaded. There were also various kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery elements should always be retained and cleaned down to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated.
To ensure they remain in good condition, wooden windows must be maintained. Inattention to maintenance can result in:
Sashes that no longer slide smoothly.
Holes in the frame that allow water to get in and cause decay and damage.
The putty can be soaked by water and cause decay to the frame or cill.
Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s and I930s because they were strong and slim, cost-effective 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 may be more appealing than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.
The industry of replacement windows has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were rotten drafty, noisy and beyond repair. Many old windows cambridge made of timber can be repaired and utilized for a longer period with minor repairs.
5. Maintenance
The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it can result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to become damaged. The removal of sashes could also cause structural movement in the frame, which can cause the sash to not close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or fixed in the open position, which can let water and draughts in the property.
Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided by regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the source of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified due to the wavy appearance of the paint that can be removed to reveal rotting, soft timber. The sections that are rotting should be carefully cut out and the affected part should be scarfed 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 is left and is among the least invasive methods of treating decay of timber to timber.
A wood condenser that is based on resin is a viable alternative to traditional process of sanding or staining. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is especially useful to treat pulley cords and sash, which can help prevent breakage.
It is essential to preserve and not replace any historical ironmongery such as sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is also recommended that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.
