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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is an essential part of a historic building. It demonstrates in various degrees the materials and technologies design, craftsmanship and aesthetics of the time period from which it originates.

When repairs are feasible to existing windows should be made in situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to repair the most deteriorated areas without removing the whole window.

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last for hundreds of years. They do require some maintenance to keep them looking great. Maintenance tasks include sash cord repairs and retightening pulleys on sash, and painting. The demand for upgrading timber windows in order to increase efficiency in energy use is also growing. This may include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates, or installing new cills to increase the air seal.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is especially important when sash windows are concerned because the gaps between sashes can be very large. In these cases water can enter the paint film and cause rotting to the putty or wood beneath. The rotting can be exacerbated by poor weather conditions. To prevent this from happening, windows need to be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

Areas that have been damaged must be repaired using resin-based products. This will ensure that the greatest amount of the original fabric is retained. It is important to minimize the number of holes that are created in the frame to allow cable entry, as these can admit moisture and cause decay.

Another significant problem with older windows is the structural movement within the wall that could cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can result in sash no longer fitting correctly, [empty] sticking or jamming in the opening, and damaged glazing. This is often corrected by fitting new sash frames made of slow-growing deal (pine), or oak. The cill should be made from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to avoid any movement between the existing and new work.

To reduce the risk to reduce the risk of this happening, there are a variety of companies that manufacture Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in a range of sizes and finishes that meet the requirements of the modern homeowner. The new sash, combined with quadruple draft strip and improved thermal insulation can make a huge difference to the energy-efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

A lot of old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal, as they reflect, in some form, the materials technology, design, and taste from the time period they were built. They may also have a significant historic value in their own right. This is particularly true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, where the majority of them were series of openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions, and vertically by iron or wood bars to protect against intruders.

Traditional window installation cambridge joinery made of timber can be a highly decorative element of a structure and is essential to keep it looking good. As soon as you see any signs of decay due to the penetration of moisture it is essential to stop it. This is best done by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas where there has already been damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints that are specifically designed to be used as part of the system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines in relation to preparation and the number of coats needed at each stage.

Wet rot is a typical problem for older timber windows. The best method to stop it from developing is to remove any damaged or rotten sections as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the fungus responsible for it. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine) and, should it be possible, the same type of timber as the one being removed to prevent the possibility of differential movement.

In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became less expensive and more plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became sophisticated with wooden tracery as well as moulded mullions and projection cills. The double glazing seal repairs was increasingly laid within rebated frames and then pinned with 'glazing sprigs', rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaking but it also allows more expansive clearer, upvc Locksmith cambridge more transparent sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would be possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows have a good energy performance due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very meticulous attention to detail. The large glass areas, door seal Repair near me the deep projecting cills and large glazing areas reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, windows can be upgraded to improve their energy efficiency. However it is essential to keep in mind that any such measures must be considered in the context of the overall integrity and appearance of the original window repair cambridge.

It makes sense to repair or upgrade existing windows, rather than replacing them, especially when the improvements in energy efficiency can be made through simple repairs. Older windows are usually of historical significance, since they reflect a variety of technological advancement and changes in architectural taste. The pressures to replace such windows are generally based on the assumption that windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, however most are still capable of providing service for 150, 200 and even 250 years if properly maintained.

It is crucial to understand that decay issues associated with traditional timber windows can be avoidable with timely and thorough repairs. It is also essential to identify damp problems and fix them quickly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint can be a problem because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, causing wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go unnoticed until the paintwork starts to crack or turn curly. However, it could cause structural damage and then further decay.

A good paint will stop moisture from entering the paint. It is also essential to keep the paintwork in good condition in order to prevent mould and condensation. The use of modern synthetic paints could be a problem because they are usually made to be water-resistant which can cause the growth of mildew within the window frame.

Most older windows were made from sapwood-rich timber. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to wet weather conditions, but they can be preserved with a thorough treatment of preservative before they are put to use. It is also essential to ensure that the type of wood used is suitable to the site and climate conditions, as these factors will influence the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers make various types of timber sash that can be tailored to fit specific historic openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historic structures.

Maintenance

Regular inspection carefully redecorated, as well as timely repairs can prolong the lifespan of windows made of timber. The primary cause of wood decay is moisture penetration through deteriorated paint or putty. This can be avoided by using a good wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.

Repairs to sash windows that are old and frameless casement windows should be done with care and with the least amount of disruption. It is possible to fix the majority of traditional wooden window designs without having to remove the frame. This should be done whenever possible. Remove loose or peeling paint and lightly sand the surface to improve the 'key" of the surface. This will enable the new coating to stick better. It is important to avoid removing old paint layers, which may have historical value.

When a section of wood has rotted the best way to deal with it is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts that are shaped to match existing profiles. The wood that is being inserted should be treated with a wood preservative and the joint between the timber cill and the sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.

It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC U, particularly if the installer offers an installation that includes removal and replacement in a single day. However, it is crucial that the person who installs replacement windows has a full understanding of the construction and history of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements as well as other technological advancements that won't harm the character of a historic building. The window installers who provide replacement windows must be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed acceptable in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable option. A skilled carpenter can install PVC-u windows that conform to the original character of the building. This is especially true where windows are situated in listed buildings and conservation areas.