Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained timber window is an important part of the historic fabric of a building. It demonstrates in various degrees the various materials and techniques design, craftsmanship and aesthetics of the time period that it was built in.

If it is possible, repairs must be made on-site. Repairing the worst areas of decay can be accomplished by using specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

The timber windows in many old buildings were built to last for centuries. However, they need to be maintained to ensure that they look good and operating correctly. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs, re-tightening sash pulleys, and painting. There is a growing need to upgrade the timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This could include replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window rebates or installing new cills to improve air seal.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is particularly true when windows with sash are involved since the gaps between the sashes can be extremely large. In these instances water can enter the paint film and cause rotting to the wood or putty underneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the decay. To stop this from happening windows, they should be regularly painted 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 highest possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is also essential to minimise the number of holes drilled into the frame for cable entry since these could let in water and cause decay.

Another significant problem with older windows is the structural movement within the wall, which can lead to deformation of the frame and sash. This could result in sash no longer fitting correctly and jamming or sticking to the opening and cracked glazing. Often this can be corrected by fitting new sash boxes that have been made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill needs to be constructed of a strong hardwood like oak, to avoid shifting between the new and existing work.

There are a variety of companies that make Boston pattern wooden sliding doors Cambridge sash that fit in with the majority of openings. The sash window repair cambridge is available in various sizes and finishes that will fit the needs of modern homeowners. The new sash, combined with quadruple draft strips and improved thermal insulation can significantly improve the efficiency of a home's energy use.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value because they typically show, in a particular way, the materials and technology and architectural taste of the time from which they date. They may have significant historical value as a set. This is especially true for windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed buildings, which were simply a series of openings in the frame, which were divided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into wood or iron bars to keep out intruders.

Traditional window joinery made of timber can be a stunning element of a structure and is essential to keep it looking good. It is vital that any decay caused by the penetration of moisture should be stopped as soon as it is identified. It is best to do this with thorough painting, especially if there is damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints that are designed to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number of coats at each stage.

The fungus responsible for wet rot is able to spread quickly in old windows made of timber. To prevent this, get rid of any damaged or rotten parts as quickly as you can. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine) and, if possible, the same type of wood as the one being removed to prevent the possibility of differential movement.

In the late period of the 17th century and the middle of the medieval period, glass became cheaper and more abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed buildings gradually became more sophisticated, with tracery made of wood moulded mullions, moulded mullions, and deep projection cills. In recent years, glazing was fixed into frames that were rebated with glazing sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less susceptible to leaks, but it also allows larger, clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would have been possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows provide a good energy performance due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very careful attention to detailing. They also feature large glass areas and deep projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. Windows can be designed to increase their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. It is essential to remember that these measures must be taken into consideration when it comes to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows.

As a result, retaining old windows that are in need of repair rather than replacing them makes sense, particularly when their thermal improvements can be achieved cost-effectively through simple upvc door handle repairs near me and improvements. Historic windows often have historical significance that shows a variety of technological advancement and changes in architectural taste. The pressure to replace these windows are typically based on the assumption that the old windows will need replacement in the near future, but most are still in a position to last for 150, 200 and even 250 years if properly maintained.

It is essential to understand that the decay issues that are typical of windows made of timber can be avoided by regular maintenance and prompt repairs. It is also important to identify damp problems and correct them swiftly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint can be a problem because it allows moisture to get into the wood, which can cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go undetected until the paintwork begins to crack or becomes wavier. However, it can cause structural damage and lead to further decay.

A good paint will block moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. The use of modern synthetic paints could be a problem, as they are often formulated to be water-resistant, which can cause the growth of mildew within the window frame.

The majority of older windows were manufactured from timber containing a high proportion of sapwood. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration quickly when exposed to moist weather conditions, but they can be preserved with an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are put to use. It is also important to ensure that the kind of wood used is suitable to the site and climate conditions, as these elements affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers have an array of timber sash which can be adapted to fit historical openings. They are available in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to historic buildings.

Maintenance

The life of timber windows can be extended considerably through regular inspections, careful redecoration and timely repair. The most common cause of decay is moisture infiltration through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be avoided with careful painting and using a good quality wood preservative.

Repairs to old sash windows as well as frameless aluminium casement windows cambridge windows must be done with care and with the least amount of disruption. Many of the traditional designs for timber windows are repairable without removing the frame, and this option should be followed whenever possible. 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 essential to not remove old paint layers, which may have historical value.

If a portion of wood is rotting, the best solution is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with a wood preserver and the joint between the cill for timber and the masonry sub-cill should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows using PVC-u is an appealing option, particularly when the installer provides a 'one stop shop' installation that handles both removal and replacement within the span of a day. It is important that the installers of replacement windows have a thorough understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological advancements that won't alter the appearance of an historic building. Window replacements should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are deemed to be approved by the Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u windows that are suited to the original building's style. This is particularly applicable when windows are in conservation areas or listed buildings.