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Why We Why We Sash Windows Cambridge (And You Should Too!)
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 usually due moisture which can cause the wood to swell.
Box sash windows were traditionally operated with chains or cotton cords as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to overcome this problem.
1. Aesthetics
Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed to modular imperial sizes the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows in order to comply with current energy standards and to comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also comes with windows that are superior to the uPVC options.
Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, though this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. In the 18th century, sash windows were the dominant wooden style in a majority of British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light into rooms without the use of curtains.
Early windows were simple glass, but by the 17th century sash windows began to become more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at first, but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were commonplace in many period houses.
In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, sturdy glasses that did not require support bars. This allowed for the frame to be made bigger, which in turn gave an improved view. This was an important innovation.
The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and the beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and allowed for better ventilation to the building.
Oak was used in older examples and for more prestigious buildings. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes and it is essential that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and drafts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are crucial for the proper operation of the window.
2. Energy efficiency
Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets were made available. They were coated with plate glass that was placed within timber frames with rebates and then pinned with glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This kind of glazing gradually superseded the leaded light bulbs.
The introduction of sashes resulted in the need for a greater variety of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs as well as a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes in place. They were often decorated with patterns, inscriptions and engraved patterns to identify the maker.
Sash windows can be extremely energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. However, without this maintenance they can become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can cause draughts too. This can be corrected using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose.
The market for replacement windows rests on the perception that old windows are damaged and beyond repair, while they can be easily maintained with a bit of care. These repairs can be expensive and cause many disruptions in the home. To avoid this homeowners, many prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the many "one stop shop" installation companies. These can remove and replace all windows in a home in a single day, avoiding the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much more efficient. They can also be fitted with 'energy saving' double-glazing, which can achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than are possible with traditional windows with sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to duplicate the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.
3. Security
It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their style. Many types of ironmongery are available, including sash chains, mortice bolts, and sash locks. They can be fitted in a way that the window remains able to be opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. These products are often unobtrusive as they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. These should be replaced with more robust models, such as ones that have double screws or spring levers, to minimize the chance of being struck by hammers.
Sash-window frames are traditionally made of oak or slow-grown deal. When glazing bars have survived they should be kept and where feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced with identical wood. PVC-u companies often offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows on a complete home in a single day without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from a number of different suppliers.
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 modified to allow more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. wooden sliding doors cambridge was a much lighter appearance and windows that had a higher degree of elegance than before.
The introduction of sash windows also demanded a new range of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, while later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and lead, and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their fine design.
Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good condition. Lack of attention to them regularly can result in:
sashes that no longer slide smoothly.
holes in the frame allow water, which can cause damage and decay.
Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or cill.
In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their strength slim and inexpensive and also matched the fashion for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash windows are as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.
The industry of replacement windows did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed, drafty and beyond economical repair. Many old windows made of timber are repairable and can be utilized for a longer period with minor repairs.
5. Maintenance
A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can result in the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of the sashes can also result in structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to be misaligned and not closing properly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or fixed in an open position, which can let water and draughts in the structure.
The damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture infiltration. This can be avoided by regular maintenance as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified due to the wavy appearance of the existing paint which can be stripped away to reveal soft, rotting wood. The sections that are rotting should be carefully cut out and the affected area should be snared together or pieced together with replacements of the exact kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric left, and is one of the least invasive ways of treating decay of timber to timber.
The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to the traditional method of sanding and staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the wood to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which can help stop breakage.
It is essential that any old ironmongery like sash stays and latches are retained and rehabilitated instead of being replacing them. These items can be very difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings such as chain stays and sash lifts should be avoided if possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.