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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 become stuck and are difficult to open or shut. This is often due moisture which can cause the timber to expand.

Box sash windows were previously operated by chains, cotton cords and lead weights. Modern sash windows have hidden springs to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows which are manufactured in imperial sizes that are modular, are able to be restored to their original size. This allows the restoration to meet the current energy standards while ensuring compliance with conservation regulations for the area. It also gives windows that have a superior appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding windows with sash were initially only used for large buildings or public buildings. However upvc locksmith cambridge became more affordable and artisans could produce larger frames with more glass. In the 18th century, Sash windows were the most popular wooden style in a majority of British properties. Sash windows were easy to operate and allowed light to enter rooms without the need for curtains.

The first windows were made of plain glass but by the 17th century sash windows were becoming more attractive with coloured glass bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at first, but as glass production became cheaper and more efficient, they were an integral feature in many period houses.

In the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, strong glass that didn't require support bars. This allowed for the frame to be made bigger which, in turn, provided a better view. This was a significant innovation.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding windows at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened at the same time and also improved the ventilation of a building.

The most commonly used type of sash is constructed of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was used in the more luxurious buildings and in some earlier examples. A parting bead is used to separate the two sashes. It is essential that it is well maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers also are crucial for the proper operation of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

Sash windows replaced hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets were made available. Glass plates were set in frames of timber that were rebated, then pinned with glazing sprigs and putty was then sprayed onto the frame's sides for watertightness. This type of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

Sashes were introduced, which resulted in an increase in demand for ironmongery. The basic fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges and handles, and a variety of fasteners to secure the sashes. These were usually decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

With regular maintenance, sash windows are very energy efficient. But, if you don't maintain them, they may become drafty and let in cold air. Putty and paint can cause draughts. This can be corrected making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.

The industry of replacement windows relies heavily on the notion that old windows are damaged beyond repair and are not able to be maintained economically. However, they can easily be maintained with a little attention. However, these repairs can be expensive and involve considerable disruption to the home. To avoid this homeowners, many choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the largest 'one stop shop' installation companies. These can remove and replace all the windows in an entire house in a single day, eliminating the need to coordinate different tradesmen and making the entire process much faster. They are also available with energy-saving double-glazing, which can achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than traditional windows made of sash. These double-glazed windows aren't capable of resembling the proportions and sections of sashes from old timber.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain and sash lock could be installed. They can be fitted in a way so that the window can be open for ventilation and cleaning. These products are usually unobtrusive, as they are designed to match the sash window. They can be utilized in conjunction with traditional sash-window catchers, which are required to be replaced with more robust models (such ones that have double screws) or sprung levers to reduce the possibility of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames were traditionally constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more prestigious houses they were made from oak. If the glazing bars remain in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. Where feasible, the cills made of timber should be replaced with timber that is compatible with. PVC-u companies typically provide a one-stop shop installation service, removing and replacing windows on an entire house in a day without the need to engage other tradespeople or coordinate visits from a number of different suppliers.

4. Ventilation

Sash windows were introduced in the 17th Century and allowed for a large amount of light to be absorbed into buildings. By the end 18th century, they were adapted so that even more light could be let into rooms. Larger glazing panes were also produced. The result was a more light appearance and windows that were more elegant.

Sash windows were introduced, which required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of wood and lead, and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces must be kept clean and preserved in order to appreciate their exquisite design.

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

Sashes that no longer slide easily.

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

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

Steel casement windows became popular in the I920s and I930s because they were sturdy and slim, cheap 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 industry of replacement windows has done a lot to persuade house owners that their traditional windows are dirty, noisy and beyond repair. Many old windows made of timber can be fixed and used for many more years with minor repairs.

5. Maintenance

Traditional sash windows require regular maintenance and inspection. Inability to keep up with this could result in the sash cords breaking, a lot of wear on the glazing bars, and the deterioration of putty and paint. The removal of the sashes could also result in structural shifts within the frame, which causes the sash to move out of alignment and not closing properly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or slammed into an open position and this can let water and draughts enter the structure.

Damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture penetration. This can be prevented by careful painting, regular repairs and elimination of the source of dampness. Wet rot can be identified due to the wavy appearance of the paint that can be stripped to reveal soft, rotting timber. Any timber that is rotting must be removed and the affected area should be carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same type of wood as those remaining. This method of repair maximizes the amount original fabric and is among the least invasive ways to treat timber-to-timber rot.


The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to the traditional method of staining and sanding. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is especially useful to treat pulley cords and sash, which can stop breakage.

It is essential that any historic ironmongery such as sash stay and latches are kept and rehabilitated instead of being replacing them. These items can be very difficult to replace without damaging the the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminum fittings, such as chain stays and sash lifts is avoided whenever feasible as they could cause corrosion and damage to frames and sashes made from timber.

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