How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in cambridge windows and doors (http://users.atw.hu/jesusdesciples/index.php?mod=users&action=view&id=1491191)

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of how they appear. However, sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture that can cause the timber to expand.

Box sash windows were traditionally operated with chains or cotton cords as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to solve this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are made according to the modular imperial size Timber sash windows can be restored to their original sizes. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows in order to comply with current energy standards and cambridge windows and doors conform to conservation area regulations. It also offers a window that is far superior to upvc window repairs cambridge options.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However the production became less expensive and cambridge windows and doors craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. By the late 18th century windows made of sash were the predominant design of wood in the majority of British properties. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light in rooms without the need for curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass however, by the 17th Century, sash windows began to be more decorative. They began with colored glazing bars or mullions. They were costly at the beginning but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were a common feature in many homes of the period.

By the 19th century it was possible to make large, strong glass that did not need supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to increase more, which in turn gave a better view out of the window. This was an important innovation.

Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and the beginning of I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash window repair cambridge to be opened at the same time and gave improved ventilation to the building.

Oak was used for older examples and more prestigious buildings. A split bead divides the two sashes, and it is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good working order as they aid in operating the window repairs cambridge.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets became available. Glass plates were set in rebated timber frames, pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on both sides of the frame for watertightness. This type of glazing gradually replaced led lights.

The introduction of sashes created a need for a much greater variety of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being 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. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and designs that were engraved to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. If they are not maintained, they can become draughty. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. This issue can be fixed with wood-to-timber products.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the perception that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, while they can be maintained with a bit of care. However, these repairs can be expensive and involve considerable disruption to the home. To prevent this homeowners, many choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the largest 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, thereby saving time and avoiding the need for various tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving double glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows with sash. These 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 their appearance. Many types of ironmongery are available including sash chains mortice bolts, and sash locks. They can be fitted to ensure that the window is still capable of being opened for ventilation or cleaning. These windows are typically discrete since they are made to work with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches, which must be replaced by more robust versions (such ones with double glazed window cambridge screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the risk of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames are typically made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars remain intact and are not damaged, they should be left. If it is it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced with wood that matches. Many PVC-U firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can remove and replace windows throughout a home in one day, without involving any other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a significant amount of light into buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were modified to let even more light into rooms and larger glazing panes began to be produced. The result was a more light appearance and windows that were more elegant.

Sash windows were introduced, which required a new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made from wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mix of wood and lead. There were also different types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their fine design.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good order. Inattention to maintenance routinely could result in:

Sashes that do not move smoothly.

Holes in the frame which allow water to enter and cause damage and decay.

break down of putty allowing water penetration that can lead to decay in the frame and cill.

In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their strength slim and inexpensive, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows are just as thermally efficient as double-glazed PVC-u windows and may be more appealing than the sleek lines of contemporary casement windows.

The replacement window industry did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten drafty, noisy and beyond repair. Many older timber windows are repairable and can be used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you don't maintain your sash window, it can result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause the paint and putty to become damaged. The removal of sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame, causing the sash not to close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or fixed in the open position, which can let water and draughts enter the property.

Damage to timber windows is often caused by water penetration. This can be avoided with regular maintenance by thorough painting and eliminating the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten sections of timber must be removed and the affected area should be carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same kind of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric that was originally used and is one of least invasive ways to treat wood-to-timber rot.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to the traditional method of staining and sanding. This is brushed onto the surface of the wood to help stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful for the treatment of sash and pulley cords, where it can prevent breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, like sash latches and stays. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also recommended that modern aluminium fittings, such as sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.