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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and are 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, cotton cords or lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to solve this issue. 1. Aesthetics Unlike PVC-u windows that are constructed according to imperial sizes that are modular, timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows in order to meet the current energy requirements and conform to conservation area regulations. It also offers a window with a far superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives. Sliding windows with sash were initially intended for large structures or public buildings. However the production became more affordable and artisans could create larger frames using greater glass. In the 18th century, windows made of sash were the predominant design of wood in the majority of British properties. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light into rooms without the need for curtains. The early windows were made of glass that was plain however, by the 17th Century the sash windows began to be more decorative. They started with coloured glazing bars, also known as mullions. These were very expensive at the time but as glass production improved and less expensive, they were a common feature in numerous period houses. In the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, strong glass that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame's size to be enlarged further and this in turn allowed for a wider view out of the window. This was a very important improvement. Another important improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of I920s and the beginning of I930s. The double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s. The most common kind of sash is made from slow grown deal (pine) however oak was used in the more expensive buildings as well as in some earlier examples. A parting bead separates the two sashes. It is essential that it is maintained to prevent rattles and drafts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are essential to the operation of the window. 2. Energy efficiency Sash windows replaced hinged cases as larger and clearer sheets were made available. Plate glass was placed in frames of timber that were rebated, then secured with glazing sprigs and putty was sprayed on the frame's two sides to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced leaded lights. Sashes were introduced, which resulted in increased demand for ironmongery. The most basic fittings were brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers shutter hinges and handles, and a variety of fasteners used to fix the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or designs that were engraved to identify the maker. Sash windows can be very energy-efficient with regular maintenance. However, without this maintenance they may become drafty and let in cold air. Draughts can also result from the degeneration of paint and putty. This issue can be fixed with wood-to-timber products. The market for replacement windows is based heavily on the notion that older windows are beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a little attention. However, repairs to these windows can be costly and cause significant disruption to your home. To prevent this homeowners, many prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the largest “one-stop shop” installation companies. They can replace all windows in a home in a single day, saving time and avoiding the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be fitted with 'energy-saving double glazing to get higher energy ratings than traditional windows with sash. These double-glazed units are not capable of replicating the proportions or section of historic timber sashes. 3. Security Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. Many types of ironmongery are available including sash chains mortice bolts and locks for sash. These can be installed so that the window is still open to allow ventilation or for cleaning. These products are often discrete since they are made to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash-window catches that are required to be replaced with more robust versions (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring levers to decrease the possibility of them being hammered open. Sash-window frames are typically constructed from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars remain intact and are not damaged, they should be left. If possible, the timber cills should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. Many PVC-U companies provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can remove and replace windows throughout a house in just one day, without involving any other tradespeople. 4. Ventilation When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light to flood into the buildings. By the end 18th century, they had been modified to allow more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also created. The result was a more streamlined appearance, and windows with a greater quality of design than before. The introduction of sash windows also necessitated an entirely new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, whereas later Victorian ones were made of brass or a combination of lead and wood and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces must be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their fine design. Timber windows require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. Lack of attention to them regularly can result in: Sashes that do not move smoothly. 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. Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s and I930s because they were strong and slim, cost-effective and complemented the trend for healthy living. Studies have shown that softwood sash window are as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive. The window replacement industry has done a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows are rotten, draughty and beyond repair. The reality is that many older windows made of timber are in good shape and with minor repairs can easily be serviceable for many years to be. 5. Maintenance Traditional sash windows require 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 paint and putty deteriorate. The removal of sashes may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to become misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. The sash can also be stuck in its open position, allowing water and draughts to enter the building. Damage to timber windows is often caused by water penetration. This can be prevented with thorough painting, regular repairs, and removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut out 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 increases the amount of fabric used in the first place and is among the least invasive ways to treat wood-to-timber rot. A resin-based wood condenser is a viable alternative to traditional sanding or staining. It is brushed on the surface of the wood to stabilise and protect it from further damage. glass repair cambridge is particularly useful to treat pulley cords and sash which can stop breakage. It is essential that any old ironmongery such as sash stay and latches are retained and restored instead of replaced. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings like sash lifts and chain stays should be avoided if possible as they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.