What Freud Can Teach Us About Sash Windows Cambridge

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and are difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture, which can cause the timber to expand.

Box sash windows were traditionally operated using chains, cotton cords and lead weights. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes, which are modular, can be restored to original dimensions. This lets the restoration be in line with modern energy requirements while complying with conservation areas regulations. It also provides windows that are superior to uPVC options.

Sliding sash windows were originally only found in large buildings or public buildings, but this changed as production became cheaper and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. By the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant wooden design in most British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the use of curtains.

Early windows were plain glass, but by the 17th century sash windows were becoming more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were costly at first, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were an integral feature in many historic homes.

In the 19th century, it became possible to make large, strong glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be enlarged which, in turn, provided a better view. This was a very important advancement.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and the beginning of I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.

Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead which divides the sashes. This will stop rattles and draughts. It is also crucial that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good working order as they help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets were made available. Plate glass was set into frames made of timber, which were secured with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on the frame's two sides for watertightness. This type of glass gradually replaced leaded lights.

The introduction of sashes led to a need for a much larger variety of ironmongery with the basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, knobs and shutters and a variety of fasteners that secured the sashes to their place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engravings that identified the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. If they are not maintained they could become drafty. Draughts can also be caused by the breakdown of putty and paint. This can be remedied by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The market for replacement windows rests on the belief that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, while they can be easily maintained with just a little care. However, these repairs are costly and can cause 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 home in one day, saving time and eliminating the need for various tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be fitted with 'energy-saving' double-glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than those offered by traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of replicating the proportions or section of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising on their aesthetics. Many types of ironmongery are available including sash chains mortice bolts and locks for sash. They can be fitted in such a way that the window can be opened for ventilation and cleaning. They are generally unobtrusive, as they are designed to fit the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers, which should be replaced with more robust models (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the possibility of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames are usually made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars remain in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. If it is it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced by wood that is in line with. PVC-U companies usually provide a one-stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows across a house in a day without the need to involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a significant amount of light into the buildings. By the end 18th century, they were modified so that more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also created. The result was a more streamlined appearance, and windows with a greater quality of design than before.

The introduction of sash windows also demanded a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs.  glass repair cambridge Repair My Windows And Doors  should be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their beautiful design.

Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good shape. Lack of regular attention may result in:

Sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

holes in the frame allow water, which can cause damage and decay.

The putty can be soaked by water and cause decay to the frame or cill.

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their durability slim and affordable and also matched the fashion for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient thermally as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and can be more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.

The industry of replacement windows did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten, drafty and beyond economical repair. Many old windows made of timber can be repaired and used for a long time with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly can result in broken sash cords, excessive wear on the glazing bars and degradation of the paint and putty. The removal of the sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to be misaligned and unable to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or fixed in an open position, which can let water and draughts into the structure.

The damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture penetration. This can be prevented by thorough painting, regular repairs and elimination of the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. The sections that are rotting should be carefully cut out and the affected part should be scarfed or glued together using replacements of the same kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair maximises the amount of fabric left, and is among the least invasive methods for treating timber-to-timber decay.

A wood condenser that is based on resin is a viable alternative to traditional sanding or staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to prevent the breakage.

It is essential to preserve and not replace any historical ironmongery, such as stay latches and sash latches. These items can be very difficult to replace without damaging the the original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings such as chain stays and sash lifts should be avoided if possible as they can cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made of timber.