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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is usually due moisture that can cause the wood to expand. Traditionally, window boxes utilized chains, cotton cords or lead weights to operate. Modern sash window springs are hidden to solve this problem. 1. Aesthetics Timber sash windows, in contrast to PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes and are modular, can be reconstructed to their original size. This allows the restoration to meet modern day energy requirements while ensuring compliance with conservation area regulations. It also comes with an option that is superior to the uPVC alternatives. Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally intended for large structures or public buildings. However, this changed when production became cheaper and artisans could create larger frames using more glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the need for curtains. The early windows were made of glass that was plain however, by the 17th Century the sash windows began to be more decorative. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time but as glass production improved and cost-effective, they became a feature of many of the period homes. By the 19th century it was possible to make large, sturdy glass that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to increase further, which gave a better view from the window. This was a significant innovation. The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. Oak was used for older and more luxurious buildings. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes and it is vital that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and drafts. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good working order as they assist in operating the window. 2. Energy efficiency Sash windows replaced hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets became available. They were glazed with plate glass placed within timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This kind of glass gradually replaced leaded lights. The introduction of sashes led to a need for a much wider range of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, knobs and shutters as well as a range of fasteners that secured the sashes into place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or designs that were engraved to identify the maker. Sash windows can be very energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. Without this maintenance they can get draughty. Paint and putty may also cause draughts. You can fix this problem with wood-to-timber products. The industry of replacement windows is based on the assumption that traditional windows are rotten and beyond repair, but they can be easily maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause substantial disruption to the home. To avoid this homeowners often choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the largest 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and avoiding the need for various tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be fitted with 'energy saving' double-glazing, which can achieve more energy efficient ratings than traditional sash windows. double glazing cambridgeshire -glazed windows aren't able to replicate the proportions or section of the sashes made of timber from the past. 3. Security Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their style. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain and sash locks can be put in place. These can be put in place so that the window is able to be opened to allow ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically unobtrusive as they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. These should be replaced by more robust versions, such as those that incorporate double screws or sprung levers in order to reduce the chance of being hammered. Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more luxurious homes made of oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept, and if it is it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by identical wood. Many PVC-U firms offer a one-stop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on an entire house in just one day, without involving other tradespeople. 4. Ventilation When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light to flood into the buildings. In the 18th century, they had been modified to allow more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glazing panes were also created. The result was a lighter appearance, and windows that had a higher level of elegance than they had before. The introduction of sash windows also necessitated 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 many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their exquisite design. To ensure they remain in good condition, wooden windows need to be maintained. Lack of attention to them regularly can lead to: Sashes that don't slide easily. holes in the frame that allow water, which can cause damage and decay. break down of the putty and allow water to penetrate, which could cause decay in the frame and cill. In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity because they were strong slim and affordable and were in line with the trend for healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient thermally as double-glazed PVC-u windows and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows. The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their old windows are dirty, noisy and beyond repair. Many old timber windows are repairable and can be utilized for a longer period with minor repairs. 5. Maintenance The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your window's sash, it could lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to degrade. The removal of sashes can also cause structural movement in the frame, causing the sash to not 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 property. Damage to windows made of timber is often caused by moisture infiltration. This can be prevented by thorough painting, regular repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped away to reveal soft, rotting wood. The sections of timber that are rotten must be removed with care and the affected area should be snared together or pieced together using replacements of the same nature as the rest of the timber. This method of repair maximises the amount of fabric left, and is among the least invasive methods of treating timber-to-timber decay. A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to the traditional sanding or staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is especially useful for treating sash and pulley cords, where it can prevent breakage. It is essential that any historic ironmongery such as sash stay and latches are retained and restored instead of replacing them. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided if at all feasible as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made of timber.