The History Of Sash Windows Cambridge

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in cambridge windows have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of how they appear. However, sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is usually due moisture which can cause the wood to swell.

Traditionally, window boxes utilized chains or cotton cord and weights made of lead to operate. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes, which are modular, are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration to meet modern day energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation areas regulations. It also comes with windows that are superior to uPVC alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames using larger glass. In the 18th century, Sash windows were the most popular wooden style in a majority of British homes. Because they were simple to open, sash windows let light into rooms without curtains.

Early windows were plain glass, but by the 17th century, sash windows began to become more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they were a common feature in many of the period homes.

In the 19th century, it became possible to create large, sturdy glasses that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame's size to be increased even further, which gave a better view from the window installation cambridge [http://www.stes.tyc.edu.tw]. This was a significant innovation.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of the I920s and beginning of I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made 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 separation bead that divides the sashes. This will stop rattles and draughts. It is also important that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good condition as these assist in operating the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger glass sheets were made available, sash windows began to replace hinged casements. Plate glass was placed in frames made of timber, which were which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was applied to both sides of the frame to ensure watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.

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

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be 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 issue can be fixed with wood-to-timber products.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the perception that old windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows can be expensive and involve considerable disruption to the home. Many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u from a large 'one-stop shop' installation company. They can replace all windows in a house in a single day, saving time and avoiding the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. They are also available with energy-saving double-glazing to achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions and sections of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their aesthetics. Ironmongery like mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be put in place. These can be put in place so that the window is still open for ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically discrete since they are made to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. They are best replaced with more robust models like ones that have double screws, or sprung levers in order to reduce the possibility of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames are traditionally constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept, and, if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. PVC-u companies typically provide a one-stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on a complete house in a day without the need to engage other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a substantial amount of light to flood into structures. By the end of the 18th century, they were modified to let even more light into rooms and bigger glazing panes started to be manufactured. The result was a lighter appearance, and windows with a greater quality of design than before.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and lead. There were also various types of knobs and shutter hinges. Ironmongery elements must be retained and cleaned down so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. A lack of attention to them regularly could lead to:

Sashes that no longer slide easily.

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

break down of putty, allowing water penetration that could cause decay in the frame and 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 shown that traditional softwood sash windows are just as thermally efficient as double-glazed PVC-u windows and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows.

The replacement window industry has done a lot to convince homeowners that their traditional windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. The reality is that many older timber windows are in good condition and with minor repairs could easily be maintained for years to come.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it could result in the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause paint and putty degrade. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movements within the frame, causing the sash not to close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or fixed in an open position and this can let water and draughts enter the structure.

Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by water infiltration. This can be avoided by careful painting, regular repairs, and removing the source of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified due to the wavy appearance of the existing paint which can be stripped away to reveal soft, rotting timber. The sections that are rotting should be carefully cut out and the affected part should be scarfed or pieced together with replacements of the exact kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair increases the amount of original fabric left, and is among the least invasive methods of treating decay caused by timber.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is another alternative to the traditional method of staining and sanding. The product is brushed on to the surface of the wood to stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which help stop breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any old ironmongery such as stay latches and sash latches. It is difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also recommended that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.