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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 the way they look. Sash windows can get stuck and become difficult to open or shut. This is typically due to moisture, which can cause the wood to expand. Traditionally, box sash windows used chains or cotton cord and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to solve this problem. 1. window seal repairs repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk , unlike PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes and are modular, can be restored to their original dimensions. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows to meet current energy requirements and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also offers a window with a far more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives. Sliding sash windows were initially only found in large buildings or public buildings, but this changed as production became cheaper and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. In the 18th century, Sash windows were the most popular design of wood in the majority of British properties. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light in rooms without the use of curtains. Early windows were simple glass, but by the 17th century sash windows were becoming more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they were a common feature in numerous period houses. In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, strong glass that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame size to be enlarged further and this in turn gave a better view out of the window. This was a significant advancement. The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made towards the end of the I920s and at 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 beginning of the I930s. The most common type of sash is constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) but oak was utilized in more luxurious buildings and in earlier examples. It is essential to keep the parting bead which separates the sashes. This will stop draughts and rattles. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers are also crucial to the operation of the window. 2. Energy efficiency As clearer and larger glass sheets were made available, sash windows began to replace hinged casements. They were coated with plate glass that was set in timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced led lights. The introduction of sashes led to an need for a wider range of ironmongery, with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops, shutter hinges and knobs as well as a range of fasteners that secured the sashes in place. These were often decorated in patterns, inscriptions and engraved patterns to identify the maker. Sash windows are energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can cause draughts too. This can be remedied by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary. The replacement window industry relies on the assumption that traditional windows are rotten and beyond economical repair, whereas they can be maintained with a little attention. Repairs can be expensive and cause lots of disruption to the home. To prevent this homeowners often prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. These can remove and replace all windows in a house in a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the whole process much quicker. These windows can be fitted with energy-saving' double glazing to achieve higher energy ratings than the traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions or section of historic timber sashes. 3. Security It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their appearance. Many types of ironmongery are available, including sash chains, mortice bolts and sash locks. They can be fitted in a way so that the window can still be opened for ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually minimal in appearance, as they are designed to match the sash window. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window catches. They should be replaced with more robust versions like ones that have double screws or spring levers in order to reduce the risk of being hammered. Sash-window frames are traditionally made of oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars remain intact and in good condition, they should be kept. If it is it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced by timber that is compatible with. PVC-u companies often offer a one stop shop installation service, which includes removing and replacing windows across a house in a day without the need to involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers. 4. Ventilation Sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century and allowed for a large amount of light into buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were modified to let more light into rooms, and larger glazing panes began to be produced. The result was a lighter look and windows with more elegance. Sash windows were introduced and required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, later Victorian ones were made from brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. The ironmongery components should be maintained and cleaned to ensure that the exquisite quality of their design can be appreciated. Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good order. A lack of regular attention can result in: 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 could cause decay in the frame and cill. In the I920s and I930s, steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their durability slim and affordable, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows are as efficient thermally as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and can be more attractive than the modern sleek design of casement windows. The replacement window industry was able to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten drafty, noisy and beyond repair. Many old windows made of timber can be repaired and utilized for a longer period with minor repairs. 5. Maintenance Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do this could result in sash cords breaking, excessive 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 become misaligned and unable to close correctly. The sash may also become stuck in an open position, which allows the water and drafts to enter the building. Damage to timber windows is often caused by water infiltration. This can be avoided with regular maintenance by thorough painting and eliminating the source of dampness. Wet rot is easily identified due to the wavy appearance of the paint, which can be stripped to reveal soft, rotting timber. Any timber that is rotting must be removed and the affected part carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same kind of timber as the ones remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of fabric retained and is one of the least invasive methods of treating decay caused by timber. A resin-based wood condenser is an alternative to the traditional sanding or staining. It is brushed on the surface of the wood to stabilise and shield it from further damage. It is particularly useful in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to stop breakage. It is important that any old ironmongery such as sash stays and latches be kept and restored rather than replacing them. It is difficult to replace these items without compromising their original design. It is also advised that modern fittings made of aluminium like sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they can cause deterioration and corrosion of timber frames and sashes.