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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 the way they appear. However, sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is often due moisture that can cause the timber to expand. Traditionally, box sash windows utilised chains or cotton cords and lead weights to operate. Modern sash window springs are hidden to solve this problem. 1. Aesthetics Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes that are modular, can be restored to original dimensions. repairmywindowsanddoors allows the restoration of timber sash windows in order to meet the current energy requirements and to comply with conservation area regulations. It also offers windows that are superior to uPVC alternatives. Sliding sash window frames were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However the production became cheaper and artisans could create larger frames using greater glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden design in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the use of curtains. Early windows were simple glass, but in the 17th century sash windows began to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the beginning but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they became a common feature in many period houses. In the 19th century, it was possible to manufacture large, sturdy glass that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be enlarged, which in turn gave the viewer a better view. This was a significant advancement. Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and at the beginning of I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously, and also improved the ventilation of a building. The most commonly used type of sash is constructed of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was also used in more expensive buildings as well as in earlier examples. It is important to maintain the parting bead which divides the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are vital for the proper operation of the window. 2. Energy efficiency As clearer and larger glass sheets became available, sash windows began replacing hinged casements. Plate glass was placed in rebated timber frames, which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was then sprayed onto the frame's two sides to ensure watertightness. This kind of glass gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs. The introduction of sashes resulted in a need for a much wider range of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges, knobs and shutters, and a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes into place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and 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 become noisy. Paint and putty may 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 are not able to be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. These repairs can be costly and cause lots of disruption to the home. To avoid this homeowners, many prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the large 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, thereby saving time and avoiding the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows made of sash. Double-glazed windows aren't able to replicate the proportions and section of sashes from old timber. 3. Security It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising on their aesthetics. Ironmongery like sash chain, mortice bolts, and sash lock can be used. They can be positioned in such a way that the window can be open for ventilation and cleaning. They are usually not noticeable since they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash window catches, which should be replaced with more robust models (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the possibility of them being opened by hammering. Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more prestigious houses, from oak. If the glazing bars are still in good condition, they should be retained. If it is possible, the timber cills should be replaced by timber that is compatible with. 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 involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers. 4. Ventilation When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a significant amount of light into buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were modified to let more light into rooms, and larger glass panes began to be produced. The result was a more light appearance and windows that were more elegant. The introduction of sash windows also necessitated the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, while later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of wood and lead, and there were various types 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. Inattention to maintenance can result in: Sashes that do not move easily. holes in the frame that admit water, which can cause damage and decay. break down of putty, allowing water penetration, which could cause decay in the frame and cill. Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s and I930s because they were strong and slim, cheap and complemented the trend for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash window are just as effective as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive. The replacement window industry has done a lot to convince homeowners that their windows are old, dirty, and beyond economic repair. However, many old windows made of wood are in good shape and with minor repairs can easily be repaired for many years to be. 5. Maintenance A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this 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 the sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to be misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or fixed in an open position and let water and draughts in the structure. Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to windows made of timber. This can be avoided by careful painting, regular repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut out and the affected area should be carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made of the same type of timber as the ones that remain. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric used in the first place and is among the least invasive ways to treat timber-to-timber rot. A resin-based wood condenser is an alternative to traditional sanding or staining. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of sash cords and pulleys where it can help to stop breakage. It is essential to preserve and not replace any historical ironmongery, such as stay latches and sash latches. They can be extremely difficult to replace without harming the quality of the original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.