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Five Killer Quora Answers To Sash Windows Cambridge
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can become stuck and become difficult to open or close. This is usually due to moisture that can cause the wood to expand.

Box sash windows were traditionally operated using chains or cotton cords, as well as weights made of lead. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to avoid this issue.

1. Aesthetics

Contrary to PVC-u windows which are manufactured according to the modular imperial size Timber sash windows can be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration of timber sash windows in order to meet the current energy requirements and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also offers a window that is far superior to uPVC options.

Sliding sash window frames were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However, this changed when production became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with larger glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the use of curtains.

www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk were made of clear glass However, by the 17th Century, sash windows began to be more decorative. They were initially made of colored glazing bars, also known as mullions. They were costly initially, but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became commonplace in many historic homes.


In the 19th century, it was possible to make large, sturdy glasses that did not require supporting bars. This allowed the frame to be enlarged which, in turn, provided an improved view. This was a significant innovation.

The introduction of the double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that occurred towards the end of the I920s and at the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a significant improvement that came about at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s.

Oak was used in older examples and more prestigious buildings. A split bead divides the two sashes, and it is essential that it is maintained in order to avoid rattles and drafts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers also are essential to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as larger and clearer sheets were made available. They were made of plate glass, set in timber frames with rebates and then pinned with glazing sprigs and putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

The introduction of sashes created an need for a greater variety of ironmongery, including the most basic fittings, brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stops shutter hinges and knobs as well as a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes into the right place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and designs that were engraved to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows can be extremely energy efficient. If they are not maintained they could become noisy. Putty and paint can cause draughts. You can fix this problem with wood-to-timber products.

The replacement window industry relies heavily on the notion that old windows are beyond repair and therefore cannot be maintained economically. However they can be maintained with a little attention. Repairs can be costly and cause many disruptions in the home. Many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u from a 'one-stop shop' installation company. They can replace and remove all windows in a home in a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate different tradesmen, making the whole process much more efficient. They can also be supplied with 'energy-saving' double-glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than are possible with traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions and sections of historic timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising on their aesthetics. A variety of ironmongery types can be fitted with sash chains, mortice bolts and locks for sash. They can be fitted to ensure that the window is still capable of being opened to allow ventilation or for cleaning. These products are often not noticeable since they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be utilized 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-loaded levers to minimize the risk of them being opened by hammering.

Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow grown deal or, in the more luxurious homes they were made from oak. If the glazing bars are still intact and in good condition, they should be kept. If it is possible, the timber cills should be replaced by timber that is compatible with. PVC-U companies usually provide a one-stop shop installation service that can remove and replacing windows on an entire home in a single day without the need to involve other tradespeople, or coordinate visits from different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a significant amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. In the 18th century, they were modified to allow more light could be let into the rooms. Larger glass panes were also created. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with more elegance.

Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys were constructed out of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and lead. There were also various types of knobs and shutter hinges. These ironmongery elements should always be kept and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

To ensure they remain in good shape, timber windows must be maintained. Inattention to maintenance can lead to:

sashes that no longer slide smoothly.

Holes in the frame which allow water to enter and cause damage and decay.

Water can penetrate the putty and cause decay to the frame or cill.

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows grew in 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 as efficient thermally as double-glazed PVC-u windows 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 rotten, drafty and beyond economical repair. Many older timber windows are repairable and can be 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 the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars, and deterioration of paint and putty. The removal of the sashes may also cause structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to move out of alignment and in a position that it is not able to close properly. The sash can also be stuck in the open position, which allows the water and drafts to enter the building.

Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be avoided with regular maintenance by thorough painting and eliminating the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to expose the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten sections of timber must be removed and the affected area should be carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same kind of timber as the ones that remain. This repair method increases the amount original fabric and is one of most minimally invasive methods of treating timber-to-timber rot.

The use of a resin-based wood consolidant is another alternative to the traditional method of sanding and staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is particularly useful for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which help stop breakage.

It is essential that any ironmongery from the past such as sash stays and latches are retained and restored rather than replaced. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also recommended that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, are avoided since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.