Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is an important element of the historic fabric of a structure. It illustrates in varying degrees the materials and technologies as well as the craftsmanship and architectural style of the period from which it originates.

If it is possible, repairs must be made in-situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to repair the most deteriorated areas without having to remove the entire window.

Durability

Timber windows were built to last for centuries. But, they have to be maintained to keep them looking good and functioning correctly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords as well as tightening the pulleys for sash and painting. There is a growing need for upgrading timber windows to increase the efficiency of energy. This could include replacing old glazing units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or misty installing new cills to increase the air seal.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is especially true when it comes to sash windows because the gaps between sashes can be extremely large. In these situations water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty as well as underlying wood. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the rotting. To avoid this windows, they should be painted regularly with a suitable exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas should be repaired with an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric remains. It is also necessary to limit the number of holes drilled into the frame to allow cable entry as these can allow water in and cause decay.

Another issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall that can lead to deformation of the frame and sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly and jamming or sticking into the opening, and broken glass. This is often corrected by putting in new frames for sash made of slow-grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed of a strong hardwood like oak, in order to prevent any shifting between the new and existing work.

To help reduce this problem to reduce the risk of this happening, there are a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in various sizes and finishes that will suit the needs of modern-day homeowners. Together with quadruple draught strips and a better thermal insulation, these new sash can make an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames possess a dazzling aesthetic appeal because they display, in a certain form, the quality of the wood, technology, and architectural aesthetics of the time they were made. They also may have significant historical value in their own right. This is especially true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed structures, where the majority were series of openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions with vertical iron or wood bars to protect against invaders.

It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. When you spot any signs of decay due to moisture penetration it is essential to stop it. It is recommended to do this by thorough painting, especially if there is damage or fitters degradation. It is advisable to use paints that are specifically designed to be used as part of a system (primer undercoat, finish) and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding preparation and the amount of coats required at each stage.

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

In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became more affordable and abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated with wooden tracery as well as moulded mullions and projection cills. In the past, more often, the glass was set within rebated frames and secured with 'glazing sprigs' rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak and break, but also allows more clear glass sheets to be used than would have been possible without the use of leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows provide a good energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay attentive attention to detail. They also have large glass areas and deep projecting cills that minimise air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing the windows can be improved to increase their energy efficiency. However it is essential to keep in mind that these measures must be considered in terms of the overall integrity and appearance of the original window.

So, retaining existing historic windows that are in need of repair rather than replacing them is sensible especially when their thermal enhancements can be achieved cost-effectively through simple repairs and improvements. The windows that are historic have a lot of historical value, as they show a range in technical development and changes to architectural taste. The pressures to replace these windows are usually based on the assumption that the windows that are old will need to be replaced in the near future, however they are in a position to last for 150, 200 and even 250 years, if properly maintained.

It is crucial to recognize that the decay problems that are typical of timber windows can be avoided by thorough maintenance and swift repairs. Additionally it is vital to recognize damp penetration issues and to remedy them quickly to prevent serious damage. Early paint deterioration is a particular problem, since it allows moisture penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this issue to go undetected until the paintwork begins to crack or becomes wavier. However, it can cause structural damage and further decay.

A paint of good quality will prevent moisture penetration. It is also necessary to keep the paintwork spotless to avoid condensation and the growth of mould. Modern synthetic paints can pose a problem since they are typically made to be water-resistant and this can cause the growth of mildew within the window frame.

Most older windows were made from sapwood-rich wood. 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 important to ensure that the kind of wood used is suitable to the location and climate conditions, as these elements affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers have a wide range of timber sash which can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historical buildings.

Maintenance

The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended by regular inspection as well as a careful redecoration and timely repair. The main reason for decay is moisture infiltration through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by thorough painting and the use of high-quality wood preservative.

Repairs to old sash windows and frameless upvc casement windows cambridge windows should be done with care and with minimal disruption. Repairs can be made to many traditional timber window repairs cambridge designs without taking the frame off. This should be done as often as is feasible. Loose or peeling paint must be removed with care and sanded lightly to improve the key of the surface and allow for an easier adhesion of the new coating. Be careful to avoid stripping old paint layers that might have historical significance and if they are present it is recommended that a paint analysis be carried out.

If a portion of wood has rotted, the best solution is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts that are shaped to match existing profiles. The timber inserts should be treated with wood preservative. The junction between masonry sub-cill and timber cill should be sealed.

It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC U, particularly if the installer offers an all-in-one installation that includes both removal and lens replacement cambridge within a single day. It is essential that the person installing lens replacement cambridge windows has a complete knowledge of the construction and history of traditional wooden frames. This will enable them to make appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological improvements that don't affect the appearance of a building that is historic. The window installers who provide replacement windows must be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed as a suitable solution under Building Regulations. It is, of course, possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-u windows that are sympathetic to the style of the building originally. This is particularly true where the windows are located in listed buildings and conservation areas.