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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 appear. Sash windows can become stuck and become difficult to open and close. This is often due moisture, which can cause the timber to expand. Box sash windows were traditionally operated by chains or cotton cords, as well as weights made of lead. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to eliminate 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 dimensions. This lets the restoration meet the current energy standards while still complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also offers windows with a superior appearance than uPVC alternatives. Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, though this changed as production became cheaper and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. In the late 18th century Sash windows were the most popular wooden design in most British homes. Since they were easy to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains. The first windows were made of plain glass but by the 17th century, sash windows started to become more decorative, with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were costly at first, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they became commonplace in many homes of the period. By the 19th century it was possible to create large, sturdy glass that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be made bigger and, in turn, gave a better view. This was a significant advancement. Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of the I920s and beginning of I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously and also improved the ventilation of the building. Oak was used for older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is important to maintain the parting bead which is used to separate the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. It is also important that sash pulleys and idler wheels are kept in good shape as they assist in operating the window. 2. Energy efficiency As larger and clearer sheets of glass were made available, sash windows began replacing hinged casements. Glass plates were set in rebated timber frames, pinned 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 wider range of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys and lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and knobs and a variety of fasteners to hold the sashes into the right place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker. With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. If they are not maintained, they can become draughty. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of paint and putty. You can fix this problem by using wood-to-timber products. replacement windows cambridge for replacement windows rests on the belief that older windows are old and beyond economical repair, while they can be easily maintained with a bit of care. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause substantial disruption to the home. To prevent this homeowners, many prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the largest “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 more efficient. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving' double glazing to achieve higher energy ratings than the traditional sash window. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions and section of historic timber sashes. 3. Security It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their appearance. There are many types of ironmongery that can be fitted, including sash chains, mortice bolts, and sash locks. These can be put in place so that the window is still capable of being opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. They are usually not noticeable since they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches that must be replaced by more robust versions (such ones that have double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the chance of them being opened by hammering. Sash-window frames are typically made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars remain in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. Where possible, the timber cills should be replaced by wood that matches. PVC-u companies typically provide a one-stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on an entire house in a day without the need to engage other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from different suppliers. 4. Ventilation Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a significant amount of light into buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were adapted to allow even more light into rooms, and bigger glazing panes started to be manufactured. The result was a more light appearance and windows with more elegance. Sash windows were introduced, which required a new range ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, later Victorian ones were made from brass or a mixture of wood and lead, and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their exquisite design. Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good shape. A lack of attention to them regularly could cause: Sashes that no longer slide easily. holes in the frame that allow water causing damage and decay. break down of the putty and allow water to penetrate, which could lead to decay of the frame and cill. In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew 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 in thermal efficiency as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and can be more attractive than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows. The industry of replacement windows did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were decayed and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. However, many old windows made of timber are in good condition and with minor repairs can easily be serviceable for many years to be. 5. Maintenance Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your sash window, it could result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to become damaged. The removal of the sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to move out of alignment and in a position that it is not able to close properly. The sash could also get stuck in the open position, which allows water and draughts into the building. Damage to windows made of timber is usually caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented by thorough painting, periodic repairs, and removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, decaying wood. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut off and the affected area carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same kind of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric that is left and is one of the least invasive methods of treating decay caused by timber. A wood condenser made of resin is a viable alternative to traditional process of sanding or staining. The product is brushed on to the surface of the wood to stabilize it and protect it from further damage. It is especially useful for the treatment of sash and pulley cords, which can help prevent breakage. It is crucial to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, such as the sash latches and stays. These items are difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings, such as sash lifts and chain stays should be avoided if possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration to timber frames and sashes.