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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can become stuck and become difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture, which can cause the timber to swell. Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilised chains or cotton cords and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows come with hidden springs to solve this issue. 1. Aesthetics Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed according to the modular imperial size Timber sash windows can be restored to their original sizes. This allows the restoration to meet modern day energy requirements while complying with conservation area regulations. It also provides windows with a more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives. Sliding windows with sash were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became more affordable and artisans could create larger frames using larger glass. In the late 18th century sash windows were the dominant design of wood in the majority of British properties. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the need for curtains. Early windows were plain glass, but by the 17th century sash windows were becoming more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and cheaper they were a common feature in numerous period houses. In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, strong glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be enlarged, which in turn gave the viewer a better view. This was a significant innovation. Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and at the beginning of I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened at the same time and allowed for better ventilation to the building. Oak was used in older examples and for more prestigious buildings. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead that divides the sashes. This will stop draughts and rattles. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are also vital to the operation of the window. 2. Energy efficiency Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets were made available. They were made of plate glass, set within rebated timber frames and then pinned with glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This type of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights. The introduction of sashes resulted in a need for a much greater variety of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops, shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners used to keep the sashes into the right place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engravings that identified the maker. With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. If they are not maintained they could become draughty. Paint and putty may cause draughts. It is possible to fix this issue with wood-to-timber products. The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the perception that old windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a little attention. These repairs can be expensive and cause lots of disruption to the home. To avoid this homeowners often prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the many “one-stop shop” installation companies. They can replace and remove all the windows in a home in a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the entire process much quicker. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double-glazing to attain higher energy ratings than traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions or section of the sashes made of timber from the past. 3. Security Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their aesthetics. A variety of ironmongery types can be installed including sash chains mortice bolts, and locks for sash. They can be positioned in such a way that the window can still be open for ventilation and cleaning. They are generally minimal in appearance, as they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used with traditional sash window catch. These should be replaced by more robust models like those that incorporate double screws or sprung levers in order to reduce the risk of being hammered. Sash-window frames are traditionally made of oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept, and if it is feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced by matching wood. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on an entire home in a single day, without involving any other tradespeople. 4. Ventilation Sash windows were introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a huge amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. By the end 18th century, they were adapted so that even more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with a greater degree of elegance than before. Sash windows were introduced, which required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors should be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their fine design. Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good order. A lack of regular attention could lead to: Sashes that no longer slide smoothly. holes in the frame allow water causing damage and decay. Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or the cill. In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their durability, slim and cheap and also matched the fashion for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows can be just as thermally efficient as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and may be more appealing than the modern sleek design of casement windows. The window replacement industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were decayed drafty, noisy and beyond repair. The truth is that a lot of older windows made of timber are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be repaired for many years to come. 5. Maintenance A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly can lead to broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of the sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to be misaligned and not closing properly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or slammed into an open position and let water and draughts in the property. Moisture penetration is the most common cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented by regular repairs as well as thorough painting, and then removing the source of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable due to the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped away to reveal soft, rotting wood. Any timber that is rotting must be removed and the affected area carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made of the same kind of timber as those remaining. This repair method increases the amount of fabric used in the first place and is among the least invasive ways to treat the rot that occurs between timber and timber. The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is an alternative to traditional sanding and staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the wood to help stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful for the treatment of sash cords and pulleys where it can help to prevent breakage. It is crucial to restore and not replace any old ironmongery, such as the sash latches and stays. These items can be very difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium fittings, such as sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.