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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 the way they look. Sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture that can cause the wood to swell. Box sash windows were traditionally operated using chains or cotton cords, as well as weights made of lead. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to avoid this issue. 1. Aesthetics Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes and are modular, are able to be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows to meet the current energy requirements and conform to conservation area regulations. It also provides windows that are superior to uPVC alternatives. Sliding sash windows were originally only found in large buildings or public buildings, though this changed as production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to make larger frames with more glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden design in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light in rooms without the use of curtains. Early windows were simple glass, but in the 17th century, sash windows were becoming more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and cheaper they became a feature of many of the period homes. In the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, strong glass that did not need supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be made bigger which, in turn, provided a better view. This was a significant advancement. The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that occurred in the I920s and beginning of the 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. The most popular kind of sash is made from slow grown deal (pine) however oak was also used in more prestigious buildings and in some earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes and it is vital that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and draughts. It is also essential that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good condition as these aid 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 placed in frames made of timber, which were secured with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on both sides of the frame to ensure watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs. The introduction of sashes led to a need for a much wider range of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners that secured the sashes into place. They were often decorated with patterns, inscriptions and patterns engraved to identify the maker. Sash windows can be very energy-efficient with regular maintenance. However, without this maintenance they can become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of putty and paint. This can be corrected making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary. The industry of replacement windows is based on the perception that old windows are damaged and beyond repair, whereas they can be maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause significant disruption to your home. To avoid this homeowners often choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the large “one-stop shop” installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and avoiding the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving' double glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions or section of the sashes made of timber from the past. 3. Security It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their style. Many types of ironmongery can be fitted including sash chains mortice bolts, and locks for sash. These can be installed in a way that the window is able to be opened for ventilation or cleaning. These are typically unobtrusive, as they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches that should be replaced with more robust versions (such ones that have double screws) or spring levers to decrease the risk of them being hammered out. Sash-window frames were made from slow-growing deal or, in the more elegant homes they were made from oak. When glazing bars have survived they should be kept and, if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with matching wood. PVC-U companies usually provide a one-stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on an entire house in a day without the need to involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers. 4. Ventilation Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a huge amount of light to enter buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were adapted to allow more light into rooms, and larger glazing panes began to be made. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with a greater level of elegance than they had before. Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, while later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design. To ensure they remain in good condition, timber windows need to be maintained. A lack of regular attention can result in: Sashes that don't slide smoothly. Holes in the frame that allow water to enter and cause decay and damage. Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or the cill. Steel casement windows were popular in the I920s & I930s because they were sturdy and slim, cost-effective and matched the trend of healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows are just as thermally efficient as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and are more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows. The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their windows are old, dirty, and beyond economic repair. The truth is that a lot of old timber windows are in good condition and with minor repairs could easily be repaired for many years to come. 5. Maintenance The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. window lock repairs to do this could result in sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of the sashes can also result in structural shifts within the frame, which 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 to be snagged or slammed into an open position and let water and draughts into the property. Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided by thorough painting, periodic repairs, and removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. The sections of timber that are rotten should be carefully cut out and the affected area should be snared together or pieced together with replacements of the exact type as the remaining timber. This method of repair increases the amount of original fabric that is left and is one of the least invasive methods for treating decay caused by timber. The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to traditional staining and sanding. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is especially useful to treat pulley cords and sash where it can prevent breakage. It is important to restore and not replace any old ironmongery such as sash latches and stays. They can be extremely difficult to replace without damaging the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings, such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided if at all possible as they can cause corrosion and deterioration to frames and sashes made from timber.