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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of how they look. Sash windows can become stuck and become difficult to open and close. This is usually due moisture, which can cause the wood to swell. Box sash windows were traditionally operated using chains or cotton cords, as well as lead weights. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to solve this problem. 1. Aesthetics Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes that are modular, can be reconstructed to their original size. This allows the restoration to meet modern day energy requirements while complying with conservation area regulations. It also provides a window that is far superior to uPVC options. Sliding windows with sash were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However the production became less expensive and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. In the 18th century, sash windows were the dominant wooden design in most British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light into rooms without the need for curtains. The early windows were made of clear glass, but by the 17th Century the sash windows began to become more attractive. They started with coloured glazing bars or mullions. repairmywindowsanddoors were costly at first, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were a common feature in many historic homes. In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, sturdy glass that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame to be made bigger which, in turn, provided a better view. This was a very important advancement. The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that occurred in the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and allowed for better ventilation to buildings. Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is important to maintain the separation bead that divides the sashes. This will prevent rattles and draughts. It is also important that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good condition as these aid in operating the window. 2. Energy efficiency Sash windows replaced hinged cases as clearer and larger sheets became available. Plate glass was placed in rebated timber frames, pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on both sides of the frame to ensure watertightness. This form of glazing gradually replaced led lights. Sashes were introduced, which led to a greater demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges, and various fasteners used to secure the sashes. 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 can get draughty. Putty and paint can also cause draughts. This can be remedied by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary. The replacement window industry relies on the assumption that old windows are damaged and beyond repair, but they can be maintained with just a little care. However, these repairs are costly and can cause substantial disruption to the home. To avoid this, many homeowners prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the largest 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can take down and replace all windows in a house within a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the whole process much faster. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double-glazing to attain more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows made of sash. However, these double-glazed units cannot replicate the section and proportions of the sashes made of timber from the past. 3. Security Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their aesthetics. Ironmongery, such as sash chain, mortice bolts, and sash lock can be used. They can be fitted in a way that the window remains capable of being opened for ventilation or cleaning. These are typically not noticeable, since they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches that should be replaced with more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the risk of them being opened by hammering. Sash-window frames are traditionally constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept and where it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by the same wood. Many PVC-u firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows throughout a house in just one 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. In the 18th century, they were modified to allow more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also created. The result was a more streamlined appearance, and windows with a higher level of elegance than they had before. The introduction of sash windows also necessitated an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a mixture of lead and wood and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be maintained and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated. To keep them in good condition, wooden windows require regular maintenance. Lack of attention to them regularly can lead to: sashes that no longer slide easily. Holes in the frame that allow water to enter and cause damage and decay. Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or cause cill. In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows gained popularity due to their strength slim and inexpensive and were in line with the trend for healthy living. However, research has revealed that traditional softwood sash windows are just as thermally efficient as PVC-u double-glazed windows, and are more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows. The window replacement industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten, drafty and beyond economical repair. The reality is that many old timber windows are in good shape and with minor repairs could easily be repaired for many years to come. 5. Maintenance Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly 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 sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to become misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or slammed into an open position and this can let water and draughts into the structure. Damage to timber windows is often caused by water penetration. This can be avoided by careful painting, regular repairs, and removing the source of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy look of the existing paint which can be stripped to reveal soft, rotting timber. Any rotten timber sections should be cut out and the affected area should be carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made from the same type of wood as the ones remaining. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric left, and is among the least invasive methods of treating decay caused by timber. The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is another alternative to traditional staining and sanding. This is brushed onto the surface of the wood to stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is particularly useful in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to prevent the breakage. It is important to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery, like the sash latches and stays. They can be extremely difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is also recommended that fittings made of aluminum like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.