Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window lock repairs (dig this) made of timber is a significant part of the historic fabric of a building. It reflects, in various degree the materials and techniques of the time period it was constructed, as well as the architectural style and craftsmanship.

If it is possible, repairs must be done in-situ. Repairing the worst areas of decay is possible with the help of specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were built to last hundreds of years. They do require some maintenance to ensure they look good. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks are repairs to sash-cords, re-tightening sash pulleys, and painting. The need to upgrade timber windows in order to increase energy efficiency is also growing. This can involve replacing old glazing units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or putting up new cills the air to seal better.

One of the major issues with traditional windows is damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially true when sash windows are concerned, as the gaps between sashes can be quite large. In these instances water can enter the paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty underneath. The rotting can be exacerbated by weather conditions that are not ideal. To avoid this windows, they should be painted regularly with a suitable exterior wood paint.

The areas that are damaged should be repaired with resin-based products. This will ensure that the maximum amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is also essential to reduce the number of holes drilled into the frame for cable entry as these can allow water in and cause decay.

Another major issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall, which can cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can result in sash no longer fitting correctly and jamming or sticking to the opening and broken glazing. Most often, this is corrected by the fitting of new sash boxes constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed from durable hardwood such as oak to avoid any movement between the existing and new work.

To alleviate this issue to reduce the risk of this happening, there are a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit most existing openings. The sash is available in a variety of sizes and finishes that meet the needs of the modern homeowner. These sash are combined with quadruple draft strip and a better thermal insulation, can make a significant difference to the energy-efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old wooden windows have an excellent aesthetic value because they typically illustrate, in some way the materials and technologies and architectural style of the period from which they originate. They could have significant historical value on their own. This is particularly true for early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed structures, where the majority were series of openings within structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions and vertical iron or wood bars to protect against intrusions.

It is crucial to maintain the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. When you spot any signs of 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 recommended to use paints that are designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preparation and number of coats at each stage.

Wet rot is a common issue in old timber windows and the best way to stop it becoming a problem is to take out any damaged or rotten sections immediately to prevent the spread of the fungus responsible for it. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine), and if possible, the same kind of timber that is being removed, to avoid differential movement.

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 were more elaborate, with moulded mullions, wooden tracery and deep cills projecting into the air. Increasingly, the glazing was laid within rebated frames and secured with 'glazing sprigs' rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak and also allows more clear glass sheets to be employed than would be possible otherwise without the use of led lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness, multilayer construction and care for detail. They also feature large glass areas and projection cills which reduce air infiltration. The windows can be made to improve their energy efficiency by draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However it is crucial to keep in mind that these measures must be considered in the context of the overall quality and appearance of the window in its original form.

Therefore, keeping old windows that are in need of upvc door repair instead of replacing them is sensible especially when their thermal enhancements can be achieved economically through simple upvc doors repairs and upgrades. Historic windows often have a historical value that demonstrates a range of technological advances and changes in architectural taste. Most people think that the windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, they are still in service for 150, 200 or even 250 years if you take care of maintenance.

It is important to recognise that the decay problems associated with traditional timber windows can be avoided by thorough maintenance and timely repairs. It is also important to recognize damp issues and fix them quickly so that you can avoid serious damage. Early paint deterioration is a major problem because it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this type of damage to go unnoticed until the paintwork begins to crack or becomes wavy. However, it can cause structural damage and further decay.

A paint of good quality will block moisture penetration. To prevent condensation and mould it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. Modern synthetic paints pose a problem because they are water-resistant, and can cause mildew growth within the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed of sapwood-rich timber. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to rain, however they can be protected by a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is also crucial to ensure that the kind of timber used is well-suited to the site and climate conditions, as these factors will influence the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide a wide range of sash made from timber that can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historic buildings.

Maintenance

The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended significantly through regular inspections as well as a careful redecoration and timely repair. The major cause of decay is moisture leaking through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by using a quality wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.

Repairs to old sash windows as well as casement window repairs near me frames should be done with care and minimal disruption. It is possible to repair several traditional designs of timber windows without taking the frame off. This should be done as often as is feasible. Remove peeling or loose paint and then 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 stripping paint layers that could have historical value If these are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be carried out.

If a piece of timber has begun to decay, the best option is to take out the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to match existing profiles. The wood that is inserted should be treated with a wood preservative and the connection between the cill for timber and the sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.

It's tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC U, particularly when the installer provides an 'all-in-one' installation which includes removal and replacement in a single day. It is, however, crucial that the person who installs replacement windows has a complete understanding of the construction and history of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the right suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological advancements that won't alter the appearance of an 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 as a suitable solution in accordance with Building Regulations. It is quite possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-U windows that match the character of the original building. This is especially true where the windows are located in listed buildings and conservation areas.