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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of their appearance. However, sash windows may get stuck and be difficult to open or close. This is often due moisture that can cause the timber to expand. Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilized chains or cotton cords and weights made of lead to operate. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to eliminate 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 complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also comes with a window that is far superior to uPVC alternatives. Sliding frames for windows made of sash were originally intended for large structures or public buildings. However, this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with greater glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the use of curtains. The early windows were made of glass that was plain, but by the 17th Century sash windows started to be more decorative. They were initially made of colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time but as glass production became more efficient and less expensive, they were a common feature in many of the period homes. In the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, strong glass that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame size to be enlarged more, which in turn meant more of a view out of the window. This was an important improvement. The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a significant improvement that came about towards the end of the I920s and the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. A parting bead separates the two sashes. It is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good condition as these help to operate the window. 2. Energy efficiency Sash windows replaced hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets became available. They were coated with plate glass that was placed within timber frames with rebates and pinned in place using glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This type of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors were introduced, which led to increased demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, handles and shutter hinges and various fasteners used to fix the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engravings that identified the maker. With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. However, without this maintenance they can become draughty and let in cold air. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be corrected making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary. The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the notion that older windows are beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a bit of attention. However, repairs to these windows can be costly and cause considerable disruption to the home. Many homeowners choose to replace their windows using PVC-u from a “one-stop shop” company for installation. They can replace all windows in a home in a single day, saving time and eliminating the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. They are also available with 'energy-saving' double-glazing to achieve more energy efficient ratings than traditional sash windows. Double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions and sections of historic timber sashes. 3. Security Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their appearance. Many types of ironmongery can be fitted with sash chains, mortice bolts, and locks for sash. They can be fitted in such a way that the window is able to be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These windows are typically not noticeable since they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catch. These are best replaced with more robust models, such as those that incorporate double screws or sprung levers in order to reduce the possibility of being hammered. Sash-window frames are traditionally constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept, and if it is it is possible, the timber of the cill should be replaced by the same wood. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop installation service. They can remove and replace windows throughout a home in a single 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 to flood into structures. By the end of the 18th century they were adapted to allow even more light into rooms, and bigger glazing panes started to be manufactured. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with a higher quality of design than before. The introduction of sash windows also demanded the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and lead. There were also a variety of kinds of knobs and shutter hinges. These ironmongery pieces must be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their beautiful design. Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good condition. Lack of regular attention may lead to: sashes that no longer slide easily. holes in the frame that admit water, which can cause damage and decay. break down of putty, allowing water penetration, which can lead to decay in the frame and cill. In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew in popularity due to their strength slim and affordable and were in line with the trend for healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash windows are just as effective as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive. The replacement window industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were decayed drafty, noisy and beyond repair. The truth is that a lot of old windows made of wood are in good shape and, with minor repairs, could easily be repaired for many years to be. 5. Maintenance Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this 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 sashes may also cause structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to be misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. The sash may also become stuck in the open position, allowing water and draughts into the property. Damage to timber windows is often caused by water entry. This can be prevented with careful painting, regular repairs, and removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. Any timber that is rotting should be cut out and the affected area carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made of the same type of timber as the ones that remain. This method of repair increases the amount of fabric retained and is one of the least invasive ways of treating decay caused by timber. The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is an alternative to traditional staining and sanding. It is brushed on the surface of the timber to stabilize it and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful for the treatment of sash cords and pulleys where it can help to stop breakage. It is crucial to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery, such as sash latches and stays. It is difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings, such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided whenever feasible as they could cause corrosion and deterioration to frames and sashes made from timber.