The Little-Known Benefits Cambridge Window

Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is a crucial element of the historic fabric of a structure. It reflects, in various degrees, the technology and materials of the time period it was constructed, as well as the architectural style and craftsmanship.

If repairs are possible to existing windows should be carried out in situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay can be done by using specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last for hundreds of years. They require regular maintenance to ensure they look good. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include upvc repairs Doors Repairs (Wifidb.Science) to sash cords and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. There is a growing need to upgrade the timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This may mean replacing old glass units, fixing the window rebates that are in place or putting in new cills the air to seal better.

A key problem with traditional windows is the damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly true when windows made of sash are involved because the gaps between the sashes can be very large. In these situations, water can penetrate the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and underlying wood. The rotting can be exacerbated due to weather conditions that are poor. To stop this from happening windows, they should be painted regularly with a suitable exterior wood paint.

The areas that are damaged should be repaired using resin-based products. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric is retained. It is also important to limit the number of holes drilled into the frame for cable entry as these can admit water and lead to decay.

Another major issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall that can lead to deformation of the frame and the sash. This could result in the sash fitting incorrectly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and even broken glass. This is often corrected by fitting new frames for sash made of slow-grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed from durable hardwood such as oak to avoid any movement 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 sash made of wood that will fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in a range of sizes and finishes to suit the needs of today's homeowner. Combined with quadruple draught strips and improved thermal insulation, these sashes can make a a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value because they typically illustrate, in some way, the materials and technology and architectural style of the time from which they originate. They may also have significant historical value on their own. This is particularly true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed buildings, where the majority were series of openings within structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions with vertical wood or iron bars to protect against intrusions.

It is crucial to maintain the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. It is crucial that any decay resulting from water penetration is stopped as soon as it is recognised. It is recommended to do this by thorough painting, especially where there has been damage or deterioration. It is best to choose paints that are intended to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish) and to adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for preparation and number of coats at each stage.

Wet rot is a typical problem in older timber windows. The best method to stop it from becoming a problem is to take out sections that are damaged or rotten as soon as possible to stop the spread of the fungus that causes it. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine) and, should it be possible, the same type of wood as the one being removed, to prevent differential movement.

In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became cheaper and more abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed buildings gradually became elegant with wooden tracery moulded mullions, moulded mullions, and deep projecting cills. The double glazing cambridge was increasingly laid 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 wider sheets of clearer glass to be utilized than would have been feasible without the use of leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows provide a good energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction, as well as careful attention to detailing. They also feature large glass areas and deep projection cills which reduce air infiltration. The windows can be modified to increase their energy efficiency through draughtproofing and secondary glazing. It is important to keep in mind that these measures must be considered when it comes to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows.

So, retaining the existing windows from the past that require repair rather than replacing them makes sense especially when their thermal enhancements can be made inexpensively with simple repairs and upgrades. Historic windows often have historical significance that demonstrates a range of technological advances and changes in architectural taste. Many people believe that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, most are still in service for 150,200, and even 250 years if you take care of maintenance.

It is important to recognise that the decay issues that are associated with traditional timber windows can be prevented by thorough maintenance and timely repairs. It is also essential to identify damp problems and correct them swiftly to avoid major damage. Early paint deterioration is a major problem since it allows moisture penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. The damage is usually not apparent until the paintwork becomes cracking or wavy but it can cause severe structural damage, and could lead to further decay.

A good quality paint will prevent this moisture from entering. It is also necessary to keep the paintwork clean to avoid mould and condensation. Modern synthetic paints pose a challenge because they are often water-resistant, and can cause mildew to grow in the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were made from timber that contained the majority of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to rain, however they can be preserved with an extensive preservation treatment prior to use. It is important to choose the right type of wood for the site and the climate, since these factors will affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers make a range of sash made of timber that can be tailored to fit specific openings from the past. They can be constructed to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom sizes that are in keeping with the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance

The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended considerably through regular inspections as well as a careful redecoration and timely repair. The most common reason for the decay is moisture intrusion through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be prevented by careful painting and using an excellent wood preservative.

It is crucial that repairs to the old sash and casement windows are done correctly, and carried out with the minimum disturbance. Many of the traditional designs for timber windows are repairable without removing the frame, and this option should be followed whenever feasible. Remove loose or peeling paint and lightly sand the surface to improve the 'key" of the surface. This will enable the new coating to adhere better. It is essential to not remove old paint layers, as they could have historical significance.

If a portion of wood is decayed the best option is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts that are shaped to match existing profiles. The wood that is inserted should be treated with wood preservative and the connection between the cill for timber and the sub-cill for masonry should be sealed.

Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u may be a tempting option, especially when the installer provides a "one-stop shop" installation service that can handle both removal and replacement within a day. However, it is vital that the installer of replacement windows has a full knowledge of the structure and history of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make appropriate suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technological upgrades that will not harm the historic character of a building. Window replacements should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that replacement windows are deemed to be approved under Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. It is certainly possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-u windows that are sympathetic to the style of the original building. This is particularly true when the windows are located within conservation areas or listed buildings.