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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is an essential element of a building that is historic. It reflects in different degree the materials and technologies of the time period it was constructed, as well as the craftsmanship and architectural taste.

When possible, repairs should be made in-situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to fix the worst areas of decay without removing the entire window repairs cambridge.

Durability

Timber windows were built to last for hundreds of years. They require regular maintenance to ensure they look good. The most common maintenance tasks are repairs to sash-cords as well as tightening sash pulleys and painting. There is also a growing demand for upgrading timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This can involve replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates, or installing new cills for improved air sealing.

The corrosion of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is especially true when sash windows are concerned as the gaps between sashes may be very large. In these cases, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty beneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the rotting. To stop this from happening, windows should be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded must be repaired using a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the maximum amount of original fabric is preserved. It is also essential to minimise the number of holes that are drilled into the frame to allow cable entry, as they could allow water in and cause decay.

The wall's structural movement could also cause distortions in the frame and sash. This can lead to sash no longer fitting correctly and jamming or sticking to the opening, and damaged glazing. This can often be fixed through the installation of new sash boxes that have been constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be constructed from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to avoid any movement between the old and new work.

There are now several companies that make Boston pattern wooden sash that fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in various sizes and finishes that fit the needs of modern homeowners. Combined with quadruple draught strips and better thermal insulation these new sash options can make a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of a house.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value since they usually illustrate, in some way, the materials and technology and architectural taste of the time in which they date. They also may have a significant historic value in their own right. This is especially true of early unglazed windows in timber-framed buildings, where the majority of them were series openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions, and vertically by iron or wood bars to protect against intruders.

Traditional window joinery made from timber can be a stunning aspect of a building, and is crucial to keep it looking good. As soon as you see any decay caused by moisture penetration it is essential to stop it. This is best accomplished by a thorough painting process, especially in areas where there has already been damage or deterioration. It is best to use paints that are designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number of coats at each stage.

Wet rot is a common issue in older timber windows. The best way to stop it growing is to eliminate any damaged or rotten sections immediately to stop the spread of the fungus that causes it. The replacement of rotting wood should be done with care and with a slow-growing deal (pine) and, if possible, the same species as that which is being removed to avoid differential movement between the new and old timbers.

Glass became less expensive and more abundant in the late medieval period and into the 17th century. As a result, glazed openings on timber-framed houses became more complicated with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and cills that protruded deep. In the past, more often, the glass was laid within rebated frames and then pinned with 'glazing sprigs' rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes 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 lead lights.

Energy efficiency

The traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction as well as attention to detail. They also have large glass areas as well as deep projecting cills that minimise air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing windows can be upgraded to improve their energy efficiency. However it is essential to remember that such measures should be viewed in the context of the overall quality and appearance of the window in its original form.

It is sensible to fix or upgrade windows, rather than replacing them, especially when the improvements in thermal efficiency can be made by simple repairs. Older windows are usually considered to be of historical value because they show a range in technical development and changes to the architectural style. Most people think that the windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, upvc locksmith Cambridge most are still in service for 150,200, and even 250 years with proper maintenance.

It is important to recognize that decay issues associated with traditional timber windows can be preventable by prompt and thorough repairs. Additionally it is crucial to recognize damp penetration issues and fix them promptly to avoid serious damage. The early deterioration of paint is a major issue, because it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. The damage is usually not evident until the paintwork is damaged or wavy, but can cause significant structural damage and can lead to further decay.

A good paint will stop moisture from entering the paint. To prevent mould and condensation it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as it can be. Modern synthetic paints pose a challenge because they are water-resistant and can cause mildew to grow within the window frame.

The majority of older windows were manufactured from timber containing an extensive proportion of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate very quickly when exposed to wet weather, but can be protected with a thorough treatment of preservative before they are used. It is also essential to ensure that the kind of timber used is well-suited to the climate and site conditions, since these factors will influence the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers make a range of sash made of timber that can be adapted to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be built according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that are in keeping with the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance

The life of timber windows can be extended considerably through regular inspections as well as a careful redecoration and prompt repair. The main cause of decay is moisture leaking through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by careful painting and the use of high-quality wood preservative.

upvc door repairs to sash windows that are old and casement window repairs near me frames should be done with care and with minimal disruption. Many of the traditional designs for timber windows can be repaired without removing the frame, and this method should be taken whenever feasible. Remove any peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the surface to improve the 'key" of the surface. This will enable the new coating to adhere better. Be careful to avoid stripping old paint layers which may have historic value and if they are present it is recommended that a study of the paint be carried out.

When a piece of wood has begun to decay, the best option is to eliminate the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The wood that is being inserted should be treated with a wood preserver, and the junction between the timber cill and sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.

It's tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, particularly when the installer offers an all-in-one installation that includes both replacement and removal within a single day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the right recommendations for energy efficiency improvements and other technological upgrades that won't harm the historical character of a building. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacement windows are approved as a suitable solution in accordance with Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to the original character of the building. This is especially relevant when windows are situated within conservation areas or listed buildings.