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5 Things That Everyone Doesn't Know In Regards To Sash Windows Cambridge
How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have sash windows that are traditional and homeowners are proud of the way they appear. Sash windows can become stuck and are difficult to open or close. This is often due to moisture which can cause the timber to swell.

Traditionally, window boxes used chains or cotton cords and lead weights to operate. Modern window springs for sash windows are concealed to solve this problem.

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 lets the restoration meet the current energy standards while complying with conservation regulations for the area. It also gives windows that have a more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives.

Sliding sash window frames were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However the production became more affordable and artisans could make larger frames using more glass. By the end of the 18th century, sash windows were the most sought-after wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

The early windows were made of clear glass however, by the 17th Century the sash windows began to be more decorative. They started with coloured glazing bars, also known as mullions. These windows were quite expensive at the time, but as glass production improved and less expensive, they became a feature of many of the period homes.

In the 19th century, it was possible to create large, strong glasses that didn't require support bars. This allowed the frame's size to be enlarged further, which meant more of a view out of the window. 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 simultaneously, and also improved the ventilation of buildings.

Oak was used in older and more luxurious buildings. A split bead divides the two sashes, and it is vital that it is maintained to prevent rattles and draughts. The sash pulleys, idler wheels and sash rollers also are essential to the functioning of the window.

2. Energy efficiency

As larger and clearer sheets of glass became available, sash window started replacing hinged casements. Plate glass was set into rebated timber frames, which were pinned with glazing sprigs, and putty was then sprayed onto the frame's two sides to ensure watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

The introduction of sashes created a need for a much larger variety of ironmongery with the basic fittings being brass pulleys, lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers, shutter hinges and knobs, and a range of fasteners to hold the sashes to their place. These were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions and engravings that identified the maker.

Sash windows can be very energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. However, if they are not maintained, they can become draughty and let in cold air. Paint and putty can cause draughts too. This issue can be fixed with wood-to-timber products.

The replacement window industry relies on the belief that old windows are damaged and beyond economical repair, whereas they can be easily maintained with just a little care. However, repairs to these windows can be costly and cause substantial disruption to the home. To avoid this homeowners often prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one of the many 'one stop shop' installation companies. They can replace all windows in a home in one day, saving time and avoiding the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. They can also be fitted with 'energy-saving' double-glazing, which can achieve higher energy efficiency ratings than are possible with traditional sash windows. However these double-glazed units are unable to reproduce the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery such as mortice bolts, sash chain, and sash lock can be put in place. They can be positioned in a manner that the window is able to be opened to allow ventilation and cleaning. These windows are typically unobtrusive as they are designed to complement sash windows. They can be used with traditional sash window catches. They are best replaced with more robust models like those with double screws, or sprung levers in order to reduce the possibility of being hit with hammers.


Sash-window frames were typically constructed from slow-growing deal or, in the more elegant homes made of oak. If the glazing bars are in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. Where it is possible, the cills of the timber should be replaced by wood that matches. Many PVC-u firms offer a one-stop shop installation service. They can remove and replace windows throughout a home in a single day, without involving any other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a substantial amount of light into the buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were modified to let more light into rooms and bigger glazing panes started to be made. The result was a lighter look and windows with more elegance.

The introduction of sash windows also required the creation of a new line of ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, while later Victorian ones could be made of brass or a mixture of lead and wood and there were various types of shutter hinges and knobs. Ironmongery elements must be maintained and cleaned so that the quality of their design can be appreciated.

To keep them in good shape, timber windows must be maintained. A lack of attention to them regularly could lead to:

Sashes that do not slide smoothly.

holes in the frame that admit water that can cause decay and damage.

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

In the I920s and the I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity because they were strong, slim and cheap, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash windows are as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The window replacement industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were rotten and drafty. They were also beyond the budget for repair. However, many older windows made of wood are in good shape and with minor repairs could easily be maintained for years to be.

5. Maintenance

The traditional sash windows need regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your window's sash, it could result in the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause paint and putty to deteriorate. The removal of sashes can also cause structural movement in the frame, which can cause the sash not to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be snagged or slammed into an open position and this can let water and draughts into the property.

Damage to timber windows is usually caused by moisture penetration. repairmywindowsanddoors can be prevented by careful painting, regular repairs, and removing the cause of dampness. Wet rot is recognisable by the wavy appearance of the existing paint which can be stripped away to reveal soft, rotting timber. The sections of timber that are rotten must be removed with care and the affected area should be scarfed together or glued together with replacements of the exact kind as the timber that remains. This method of repair maximizes the amount original fabric and is among the most minimally invasive methods of treating the rot that occurs between timber and timber.

A resin-based wood condenser is an alternative to the traditional staining or sanding. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and strengthen it. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to prevent the breakage.

It is important to restore and not replace any historical ironmongery, such as stay latches and sash latches. It can be difficult to replace these items without altering their original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium fittings, such as sashlifts and chainstays, be avoided as they can cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.