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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 may get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture which can cause the timber to swell. Box sash windows were historically operated with chains or cotton cords, as well as lead weights. cambridge windows and doors are hidden to avoid this issue. 1. Aesthetics Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed according to imperial sizes that are modular Timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and to comply with conservation regulations for areas. It also offers windows with a superior appearance than uPVC alternatives. Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, however this changed when production was less expensive and craftsmen were able to make larger frames with more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden style in British homes. Because they were simple to open sash windows allowed light into rooms without curtains. The first windows were made of clear glass however, by the 17th Century, sash windows began to become more ornamental. They started with coloured glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were expensive initially, but as glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became commonplace in many period houses. In the 19th century, it was possible to manufacture large, sturdy glass that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame's size to increase more, which in turn allowed for a wider view from the window. This was an important innovation. The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash is another significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. Oak was used for older and more luxurious buildings. A parting bead separates the two sashes, and it is vital that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are essential for the proper operation of the window. 2. Energy efficiency As larger and clearer sheets of glass became available, sash window started replacing hinged casements. Glass plates were set in rebated timber frames, secured with glazing sprigs and putty was then sprayed onto both sides of the frame for watertightness. This form of glass gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs. The introduction of sashes created an need for a wider range of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, knobs and shutters as well as a range of fasteners to hold the sashes in place. They were often decorated with designs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker. Sash windows can be extremely energy-efficient with regular maintenance. But, if you don't maintain them, they can become draughty and let in cold air. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of putty and paint. It is possible to fix this issue by using wood-to-timber products. The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the belief that old windows are damaged beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs can be costly and cause significant disruption to your home. To prevent this, many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the large “one-stop shop” installation companies. They can take down and replace all the windows in an entire house in a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much faster. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double glazing to get higher energy ratings than traditional sash window. These double-glazed units are not capable of resembling the proportions or section of historic timber sashes. 3. Security It is possible to secure traditional windows without compromising their appearance. Many types of ironmongery are available with sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. These can be put in place to ensure that the window is able to be opened for ventilation or for cleaning. They are usually unobtrusive as they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be used alongside traditional sash-window catches and are required to be replaced with more robust models (such ones with double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the chance of them being hammered out. Sash-window frames were constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more elegant homes they were made from oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept and if it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by identical wood. PVC-u companies typically offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows across a home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers. 4. Ventilation Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a significant amount of light to enter buildings. In the 18th century, they were modified to allow more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also made. The result was a more light appearance and windows with more elegance. The introduction of sash windows also necessitated a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, while later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery pieces need to be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their beautiful design. To ensure they remain in good condition, timber windows require regular maintenance. A lack of regular attention can result in: Sashes that do not slide smoothly. holes in the frame that allow water causing damage and decay. Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or cill. Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s and I930s because they were sturdy and slim, and also because they were cheap and matched the trend of healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash windows are as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive. The window replacement industry has made a significant effort to convince homeowners that their old windows are rotten, draughty and beyond repair. Many old windows made of timber can be fixed and utilized for a longer period with minor repairs. 5. Maintenance The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this could 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 may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to be misaligned and not closing properly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or slammed into an open position and this can let water and draughts enter the property. Damage to windows made of timber is usually caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented by thorough painting, periodic repairs and elimination of the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. The rotten timber sections should be carefully cut out and the affected area should be scarfed together or pieced together with replacements of the exact kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric retained and is among the least invasive methods for treating decay caused by timber. The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is another alternative to traditional sanding and staining. It is brushed on the surface of the wood to stabilise and protect it from further damage. It is especially beneficial to treat pulley cords and sash which can stop breakage. It is crucial that any old ironmongery like sash stays and latches be kept and restored instead of replacing them. These items can be very difficult to replace without damaging the the original design. It is also advised that modern fittings made of aluminium, such as sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.