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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of the way they appear. However, sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture which can cause the timber to swell. Traditionally, box sash windows utilized chains, cotton cords or weights made of lead to operate. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to solve this problem. 1. Aesthetics Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes that are modular, can be restored to their original dimensions. This allows the restoration to meet modern day energy requirements while still complying with conservation areas regulations. It also offers windows with a more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives. Sliding sash windows were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, though this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. In the 18th century, Sash windows were the most popular design of wood in the majority of British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the need for curtains. The first windows were made of glass that was plain However, in the 17th century, sash windows began to become more ornamental. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. They were costly at first, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were commonplace in many historic homes. By the 19th century it was possible to create large, strong glass that did not need support bars. This allowed the frame size to be increased even more, which in turn allowed for a wider view out of the window. This was an important innovation. The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash is another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously and also improved the ventilation of a building. Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. It is essential to keep the parting bead which separates the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. window doctor near me , sash pulleys and sash rollers are also vital to the operation of the window. 2. Energy efficiency Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets became available. They were coated with plate glass that was set within rebated timber frames and secured with glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs. Sashes were introduced, which resulted in an increase in demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers, shutter hinges and handles and various fasteners used to secure the sashes. These were often decorated in designs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker. With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. But, if you don't maintain them, they can become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can cause draughts. This can be fixed by using wood-to-timber repair products that are specifically designed for this purpose. The replacement window industry relies heavily on the notion that older windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs can be expensive and involve considerable disruption to the home. To prevent this homeowners often opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows from one of the large “one stop shop” installation companies. These can remove and replace all windows in an entire house within a single day, eliminating the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much more efficient. They can also be supplied with energy-saving double-glazing, which can achieve more energy efficient ratings than traditional sash windows. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions and sections of historic timber sashes. 3. Security Traditional windows can be secured without compromising their appearance. There are many types of ironmongery that are available with sash chains, mortice bolts and sash locks. They can be fitted in a way that the window remains open to allow ventilation or cleaning. These products are often not noticeable since they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches that should be replaced with more robust versions (such ones that have double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the chance of them being opened by hammering. Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow grown deal or, in the more elegant homes they were made from oak. If glazing bars have survived, they should be kept, and if it is it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced with the same wood. Many PVC-U firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows throughout a home in one day, without involving any other tradespeople. 4. Ventilation When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a significant amount of light into structures. By the end of the 18th century they were adapted to allow more light into rooms, and larger glazing panes began to be made. The result was a lighter appearance and windows that had a higher quality of design than before. Sash windows were introduced and required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, whereas later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a combination of lead and wood, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces must be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their beautiful design. Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good order. Lack of regular attention may result in: sashes that no longer slide smoothly. Holes in the frame which allow water to enter and cause damage and decay. The putty can be soaked by water and cause decay to the frame or cause cill. In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their durability, slim and cheap, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows are just as thermally efficient as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and may be more appealing than the modern sleek design of casement windows. The replacement window industry has made a significant effort to persuade house owners that their windows are old, dirty, and beyond repair. The truth is that a lot of older timber windows are in good shape and with minor repairs can easily be maintained for years to be. 5. Maintenance The traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this can lead to sash cords breaking, excessive wear on the glazing bars, and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of sashes could also result in structural movements within the frame, causing the sash to not close correctly. The sash could also get stuck in the open position, which allows the water and drafts to enter the property. The damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture infiltration. This can be avoided with regular maintenance by thorough painting and eliminating the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the 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 by using replacements of the same kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric left, and is one of the least invasive methods for treating decay of timber to timber. A wood condenser that is based on 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 particularly useful to treat pulley cords and sash, where it can prevent breakage. It is essential to preserve and not replace any historic ironmongery, such as the sash latches and stays. These items can be very difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is also advised 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.