Violet Torgerson asked 1 ปี ago
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge
Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows with traditional designs and homeowners are proud of the way they look. Sash windows can get stuck and become difficult to open and close. This is often due to moisture which can cause the timber to expand.
Box sash windows were historically operated using chains or cotton cords, as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash window springs are hidden to avoid this issue.
1. Aesthetics
Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows that are made in imperial sizes and are modular, can be restored to their original size. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows to meet the current energy requirements and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also provides windows that have a superior appearance than the uPVC alternatives.
Sliding windows with sash were initially only used in large structures or public buildings, but the production process became cheaper and craftsmen could make larger frames with more 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 use of curtains.
Early windows were simple glass but by the 17th century, sash windows began to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were costly at first, but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they were commonplace in many period houses.
By the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, strong glass that didn’t require supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be made larger which, in turn, provided the viewer a better view. This was a significant advancement.
The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made in the I920s and the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that was made at the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s.
Oak was used in older examples and for more prestigious buildings. It is important to maintain the parting bead that is used to separate the sashes. This will stop draughts and rattles. It is also essential that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good shape as they assist in operating the window.
2. Energy efficiency
As clearer and larger glass sheets became available, sash window started replacing hinged casements. They were glazed with plate glass set in timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs, and then putty on both sides to create a watertight seal. This type of glazing gradually replaced the use of leaded lights.
The introduction of sashes resulted in the need for a larger variety of ironmongery with the most basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops, shutter hinges and knobs as well as a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes in the right place. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions or engravings that identified the maker.
With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. Without this maintenance they can get draughty. Draughts can also be caused by the deterioration of paint and putty. You can fix this problem with wood-to-timber products.
The replacement window industry relies heavily on the notion that old windows are damaged beyond repair and cannot be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a bit of attention. However, these repairs can be expensive and involve considerable disruption to the home. To prevent this homeowners often opt for a complete replacement with PVC-u windows made by one of the many “one stop shop” installation companies. These can remove and replace all the commercial windows cambridge in a home in just one day, eliminating the need to co-ordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much faster. They are also available with ‘energy saving’ double glazed window cambridge, talking to,-glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than are possible with traditional windows with sash. 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 aesthetics. Ironmongery like sash chain, mortice bolts, and sash lock can be used. These can be installed in a way that the window replacement cambridge is capable of being opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. These windows are typically unobtrusive as they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catch. They should be replaced with more robust versions, such as those with double screws or sprung levers in order to reduce the chance of being struck by hammers.
Sash-window frames are traditionally made of oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are still intact, they should be retained. If it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. Many PVC-U firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows throughout a house in just one day, without involving other tradespeople.
4. Ventilation
Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a significant amount of light into buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were adapted to allow even more light into rooms and larger glass panes began to be made. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with a greater quality of design than before.
The introduction of sash windows also necessitated a new range of ironmongery. The first pulleys were made of wood, while later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood, and Double glazed Window cambridge there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be maintained and cleaned so that the fine quality of their design can be appreciated.
To ensure they remain in good condition, wooden windows must be maintained. Inattention to maintenance can result in:
Sashes that don’t slide easily.
holes in the frame allow water, which can cause damage and decay.
break down of putty allowing water to penetrate, which could lead to decay of the frame and cill.
Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s and I930s due to their strength and slim, cost-effective and matched the trend towards healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash windows are just as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.
The replacement window industry has done a lot to persuade house owners that their old windows are dirty, noisy and beyond economic repair. Many old timber windows are repairable and can be used for a long time with minor door repairs cambridge.
5. Maintenance
Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to maintain it properly can lead to the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars, and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of sashes may also result in structural movement within the frame, causing the sash not to close properly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or fixed in an open position and this can let water and draughts into the property.
Damage to timber windows is often caused by moisture entry. This can be prevented with thorough painting, periodic repairs and elimination of the cause of dampness. Wet rot can be identified by the wavy look of the existing paint which can be removed to reveal rotting, soft timber. Any rotten timber sections should be cut out and the affected area carefully cut or pieced with replacements made of the same kind of timber as those remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount of original fabric retained and is among the least invasive ways of treating decay caused by timber.
The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is a different option to traditional sanding and staining. The product is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is especially useful to treat pulley cords and sash where it can prevent breakage.
It is crucial that any historic ironmongery such as sash stay and latches be kept and rehabilitated instead of being replacing them. These items can be very difficult to replace without harming the the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings, such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided whenever possible as they can cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made of timber.