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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can become stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is typically due to moisture which can cause the wood to expand. Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilised chains or cotton cord and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash window springs are hidden to solve this problem. 1. Aesthetics Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed according to imperial sizes that are modular, timber sash windows can be restored to their original sizes. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows in order to meet current energy requirements and to comply with conservation area regulations. window maintenance repairmywindowsanddoors gives a window with a far more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives. Sliding windows with sash were initially only found in large buildings or public buildings, but this changed as production became cheaper and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. In the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant design of wood in the majority of British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the use of curtains. The first windows were made of plain glass However, in the 17th century the sash windows began to become more ornamental. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. These were very expensive at the time but as glass production improved and less expensive, they became a feature of many period houses. In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, sturdy glass that did not need supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to be increased even further and this in turn gave a better view out of the window. This was an important innovation. Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of the I920s and beginning of the 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. The most commonly used kind of sash is made from slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was used in the more expensive buildings as well as in earlier examples. A split bead divides the two sashes. It is essential that it is maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are also essential to the functioning of the window. 2. Energy efficiency Sash windows replaced hinged cases as clearer and larger sheets were made available. Plate glass was set into frames made of timber, which were which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was applied to the frame's two sides for watertightness. This form of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs. The introduction of sashes resulted in an need for a wider range of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops, shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners that secured the sashes to their place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engravings to identify the maker. Sash windows can be very energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. If they are not maintained they could become draughty. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber products. The industry of replacement windows is based on the perception that old windows are damaged and beyond economical repair, while they can be maintained with a bit of care. These repairs can be costly and cause many disruptions in the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows with PVC-u from a 'one-stop shop' installation company. They can take down and replace all the windows in a house in a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much more efficient. They are also available with energy-saving double-glazing to get higher energy efficiency ratings than are possible with traditional windows made of sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to duplicate the proportions and section of historic timber sashes. 3. Security It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery, such as sash chain, mortice bolts and sash lock could be used. These can be installed in such a way that the window can still be open for ventilation and cleaning. These products are often unobtrusive as they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches, which must be replaced by more robust versions (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring levers to decrease the risk of them being opened by hammering. Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more prestigious houses, from oak. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept and, if feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop installation service. They can remove and replace windows throughout a house in just one day, without involving other tradespeople. 4. Ventilation When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a significant amount of light to flood into buildings. By the end 18th century, they had been modified so that more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a much more streamlined appearance, and windows with a greater degree of elegance than before. The introduction of sash windows also necessitated the creation of a new line of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, while later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a combination of wood and lead, and there were various types 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. To ensure they remain in good condition, timber windows need to be maintained. Lack of attention to them regularly can lead to: sashes that no longer slide smoothly. holes in the frame that allow water, which can cause damage and decay. break down of putty allowing water penetration, which could cause decay in the frame and cill. In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their strength slim and inexpensive, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows are as thermally efficient as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows. The replacement window industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were rotten and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. However, many old windows made of wood are in good condition and with minor repairs could easily be maintained for years to come. 5. Maintenance The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do this could result in the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars, and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to become misaligned and not closing properly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or fixed in an open position and let water and draughts into the property. Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be prevented by regular maintenance as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal 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 glued together by using replacements of the same nature as the rest of the timber. This repair method increases the amount original fabric and is one of least invasive ways to treat the rot that occurs between timber and timber. The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to the traditional method of staining and sanding. This is brushed onto the surface of the wood to help stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful to treat pulley cords and sash which can stop breakage. It is crucial to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery, like sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.