flamethroat16

How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and the homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and are difficult to open or shut. This is often due to moisture that can cause the timber to swell. Traditionally, windows made of box sash utilized chains or cotton cord and lead weights to operate. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to solve this problem. 1. Aesthetics Contrary to PVC-u windows which are constructed to modular imperial sizes Timber sash windows can be restored to their original dimensions. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows in order to comply with current energy standards and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also offers windows that are superior to uPVC options. Sliding sash windows were originally only used in large structures or public buildings, however the production process became less expensive and craftsmen could make larger frames with more glass. By the late 18th century sash windows were the dominant design of wood in the majority of British properties. Sash windows were simple to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the use of curtains. Early windows were plain glass but by the 17th century, sash windows started to become more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the time, but as glass production became more efficient and cheaper they became a part of many period houses. In the 19th century, it became possible to make large, strong glasses that didn't require supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to be increased even further, which gave a better view out of the window. This was an important innovation. Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of the I920s and beginning of I930s. This allowed both the upper and lower sash to be opened simultaneously and allowed for better ventilation to the building. Oak was used for older examples and more prestigious buildings. A parting bead separates the two sashes, and it is important that this is well maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good condition as these assist in operating the window. 2. Energy efficiency As larger and clearer glass sheets were made available, sash windows began to replace hinged casements. Plate glass was placed in frames made of timber, which were pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was then sprayed onto the frame's sides to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing 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, sash stoppers shutter hinges and handles as well as a variety of fasteners to fix the sashes. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engraved patterns that identified the maker. With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. Without this maintenance, they can become draughty. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. It is possible to fix this issue with wood-to-timber products. The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the belief that older windows are beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a bit of attention. Repairs can be expensive and cause lots of disruption to the home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows using PVC-u from a “one-stop shop” installation company. They can replace all windows in a house in one day, saving time and avoiding the need for multiple tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than a traditional sash window. These double-glazed units are not able to replicate the proportions and sections of sashes from old timber. 3. Security Traditional windows can be made more secure without compromising their aesthetics. Many types of ironmongery can be installed, including sash chains, mortice bolts, and locks for sash. These can be installed in such a way that the window can be open for ventilation and cleaning. These are typically minimal in appearance, as they are designed to match the sash window. upvc window renovation repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk can be used with traditional sash window catch. These should be replaced by more robust versions, such as ones that have double screws or spring levers in order to reduce the risk of being struck by hammers. Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more luxurious homes they were made from oak. Where glazing bars have survived they should be kept, and, if feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced by the same wood. PVC-u companies typically provide a one-stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows across a home in a single day without the need to involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers. 4. Ventilation When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light into the buildings. In the 18th century, they had been adapted so that even more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also made. The result was a more streamlined appearance, and windows that had a higher degree of elegance than before. Sash windows were introduced, which required a new range ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, whereas later Victorian ones could be made from brass or a mixture of lead and wood, and there were a variety of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces should be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their exquisite design. Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good shape. A lack of attention to them regularly could result in: Sashes that don't slide effortlessly. holes in the frame allow water, which can cause damage and decay. Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or the cill. Steel casement windows gained popularity in the I920s and I930s due to their strength and slim, cheap and matched the trend towards healthy living. However, research has shown that traditional softwood sash windows are as efficient thermally as double-glazed windows made of PVC-u, and are more attractive than the sleek lines of modern casement windows. The replacement window industry did a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows were rotten and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. Many old windows made of timber can be fixed and used for many more years with minor repairs. 5. Maintenance A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. Failure to do this can lead to broken sash cords, 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 that causes the sash to be misaligned and in a position that it is not able to close properly. It is also possible for the sash be stuck or slammed into an open position, which can let water and draughts into the property. The damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture penetration. This can be prevented with thorough painting, regular repairs and elimination of the source of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy look of the paint, which can be stripped away to reveal soft, rotting timber. Any timber that is rotting must be removed and the affected part carefully wrapped or pieced back using replacements made of the same type of timber as the ones that remain. This method of repair increases the amount original fabric and is among the least invasive ways to treat timber-to-timber rot. A wood condenser made of resin is an alternative to traditional process of sanding or staining. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which help prevent the breakage. It is important to restore and not replace any historic ironmongery such as stay latches and sash latches. These items can be very difficult to replace without damaging the quality of the original design. It is also recommended that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts and chainstays, should be avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.