10 Inspiring Images About Sash Windows Cambridge

From Yuri Project

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of how they look. Sash windows can become stuck and be difficult to open or shut. This is often due to moisture, which can cause the timber to expand.

Traditionally, windows made of box sash used chains or cotton cord and weights made of lead to operate. Modern sash window springs are hidden to avoid this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are manufactured to modular imperial sizes the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original size. This lets the restoration meet modern day energy requirements while still complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also provides windows that have a superior appearance than the upvc door handle repairs Near me alternatives.

Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally only used for large buildings or public buildings. However the production became cheaper and artisans could produce larger frames with greater glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden design in British homes. Because they were simple to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass, but in the 17th century, sash windows started to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the time but as glass production improved and cost-effective, they became a feature of numerous period houses.

In the 19th century, it became possible to make large, strong glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed for the frame to be made larger, which in turn gave the viewer a better view. This was a significant advancement.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened at the same time and gave improved ventilation to the building.

The most popular type of sash is constructed of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was used in the more expensive buildings as well as in earlier examples. It is important to maintain the parting bead that divides the sashes. This will help prevent rattles and draughts. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good working order as they help to operate the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets became available. They were made of plate glass, set within rebated timber frames and secured with glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to make them watertight. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

Sashes were introduced, which resulted in increased demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers, shutter hinges and handles, and a variety of fasteners to secure the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

Sash windows are energy efficient when they are maintained regularly. However, if they are not maintained, they can become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty may also cause draughts. This can be fixed by using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the perception that old windows are beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However windows can be easily maintained with a bit of attention. However, these upvc door handle repairs near me can be costly and cause considerable disruption to the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows with PVC-u from a "one-stop shop" installation company. They can replace all windows in a home in a single day, saving time and eliminating the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be fitted with 'energy-saving' double glazing repairs near me-glazing to achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than are possible with traditional windows with sash. Double-glazed windows aren't capable of replicating the proportions and sections of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their style. There are many types of ironmongery that can be fitted, including sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. They can be positioned in such a way that the window can still be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These products are often discrete since they are made to work with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. They are best replaced with more robust versions like ones that have double screws or sprung levers, to minimize the risk of being struck by hammers.

Sash-window frames are typically made of oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars remain in good condition, they should be retained. If it is it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced with wood that matches. PVC-u companies often offer a one stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows across a home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople or co-ordinate various visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a large amount of light into the buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were modified so that more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also made. The result was a lighter look and windows that were more elegant.

The introduction of sash windows also necessitated the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and leaded. There were also different kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. These ironmongery pieces must be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their exquisite design.

To ensure they remain in good condition, wooden windows need to be maintained. Inattention to maintenance routinely could lead to:

sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

holes in the frame 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 I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their durability slim and inexpensive and also matched the fashion for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash window are as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive.

The replacement window seal replacement near me industry has done a lot to convince homeowners that their traditional windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. The truth is that a lot of old windows made of wood are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be maintained for years to come.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly can lead to the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of the sashes may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to become misaligned and unable to close correctly. The sash could also get stuck in the open position, allowing the water and drafts to enter the property.

Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be prevented by thorough painting, periodic repairs and the elimination of the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified due to the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped to reveal rotting, soft 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 kind of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric that is left and is among the least invasive ways of treating decay of timber to timber.

The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is an alternative to the traditional method of sanding and staining. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is especially useful to treat pulley cords and sash which can help prevent breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery, such as stay latches and sash latches. These items can be very difficult to replace without compromising the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that modern fittings made of aluminium, such as sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.