Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of how they look. Sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open and close. This is typically due to moisture that can cause the wood to expand.
Box sash windows were historically operated by chains or cotton cords, as well as lead weights. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to solve this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes that are modular, can 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 offers a window that is far superior to uPVC options.
Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings, but the production process became cheaper and craftsmen could create larger frames using more glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light in rooms without the need for curtains.
The early windows were made of glass that was plain However, in the 17th century sash windows started to become more attractive. They started with coloured glazing bars, also known as mullions. These were very expensive at the time but as glass production became more efficient and cost-effective, they became a part of many period houses.
In the 19th century it was possible to make large, strong glass that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be made bigger which, in turn, provided an improved view. This was a very important advancement.
The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was another important improvement that occurred in the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash is another important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s.
Oak was used in older and more luxurious buildings. A split bead divides the two sashes and it is important that this is maintained in order to avoid rattles and draughts. The idler wheels, sash pulleys and sash rollers also are crucial to the operation of the window.
2. Energy efficiency
As clearer and larger sheets of glass became available, sash windows started replacing hinged casements. They were coated with plate glass that was set within rebated timber frames and secured with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to ensure they were watertight. This type of glass gradually replaced leaded lights.
Sashes were introduced, which led to an increase in demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers, shutter hinges and handles, and a variety of fasteners to secure the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and engravings that identified the maker.
Sash windows are energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. But, if you don't maintain them, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Paint and putty may cause draughts too. This issue can be fixed by using wood-to-timber products.
The replacement window industry relies heavily on the belief that old windows are beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs can be costly and cause considerable disruption to the home. To prevent this homeowners, many choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the large 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a home in one day, thereby saving time and eliminating the need for different 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. However, these double-glazed units cannot replicate the section and proportions of the sashes made of timber from the past.
3. Security
It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising on their aesthetics. Ironmongery like mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be used. They can be positioned in a manner that the window is able to be open for ventilation and cleaning. These windows are typically not noticeable since they are designed to work with sash windows. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers and are required to be replaced with more robust versions (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring levers to decrease the chance of them being hammered out.
Sash-window frames were constructed from slow grown deal or, in more prestigious houses, from oak. 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 wood that matches. Many PVC-U firms offer a one-stop installation service. They can take down and replace windows throughout a home in a single day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.
4. Ventilation
When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light into buildings. By the end 18th century, they had been modified to allow more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also produced. The result was a more light appearance and windows with more elegance.
The introduction of sash windows also required a new range of ironmongery. Early pulleys were made from wood, later Victorian ones were made from brass or a combination of lead and wood, and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be retained and cleaned down so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.
Timber windows require careful maintenance to keep them in good condition. A lack of attention to them regularly could lead to:
Sashes that do not slide easily.
Holes in the frame that allow water to get in and cause decay and damage.
Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or the cill.
In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows gained popularity due to their strength slim and inexpensive and were in line with the trend for healthy living. However, research has proven that traditional softwood sash windows are just as efficient in thermal efficiency as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and are more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows.
The window replacement industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were decayed drafty, noisy and beyond repair. Many old timber windows can be fixed and used for many more years with minor repairs.
5. Maintenance
A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it could lead to the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to become damaged. The removal of sashes can also result in structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to become misaligned and unable to close correctly. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/cambridge-windowrepair/ could also get stuck in the open position, allowing water and draughts into the building.
Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to timber windows. This can be prevented with careful painting, regular repairs and the elimination of the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, decaying wood. Any timber that is rotting should be cut off 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 maximizes the amount original fabric and is one of most non-invasive methods to treat the rot that occurs between timber and timber.
A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to the traditional staining or sanding. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly useful for the treatment of sash cords and pulleys which can help stop breakage.
It is important that any historic ironmongery such as sash stays and latches be kept and restored rather than replaced. These items are difficult to replace without harming the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided if at all possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made from timber.
