Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is an important part of a historic building. It reflects in different degree the materials and techniques of the time it was made, the design and craftsmanship.

When possible, repairs should be made in-situ. The repair system that is based on resin can be used to fix the most damaged areas of decay without removing the whole window.

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last for hundreds of years. They require regular maintenance to keep them looking good. The most common maintenance tasks are repairs to sash-cords, re-tightening sash pulleys, and painting. The demand for enhancing timber windows in order to increase energy efficiency is also growing. This could mean replacing old glass units, repairing existing upvc window renovation rebates, or installing new cills for better air sealing.

The corrosion of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is especially true in the case of sash windows as the gaps between sashes may be very large. In these situations water can get into paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty beneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the decay. To prevent this, windows should be painted regularly with a suitable exterior wood paint.

Corroded areas should be repaired with a resin-based product. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is also necessary to minimise the number of holes drilled into the frame to allow cable entry, as they could let in water and cause decay.

Another significant problem with older windows is structural movement in the wall, which can lead to deformation of the frame and sash. This could result in the sash fitting incorrectly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and broken glass. Most often, this is corrected through the installation of new sash boxes that have been made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be made of a durable hardwood, such as oak, in order to prevent any the movement of new and old work.

To help reduce this problem, there are now a number of companies who make Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit into the majority of existing openings. They are available in various sizes and finishes that suit the needs of modern homeowners. Combined with quadruple draught strips and improved thermal insulation, these sashes can make a an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a house.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames have a great aesthetic appeal, since they display, in a certain form, the materials technology, design, and style of the time they were built. They also may have a significant historic value in their own right. This is especially true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed structures, where the majority of them were series of openings in structural frames subdivided horizontally by mullions, and vertically by iron or wood bars in order to protect against intrusions.

Traditional window joinery made from timber can be a stunning aspect of a building, and is essential to keep it looking good. It is essential that any decay caused by moisture penetration should be stopped as soon as it is recognised. It is best to do this by thorough painting, especially where there has been damage or degradation. 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 coats at each stage.

Wet rot is a frequent issue in old timber cambridge windows and doors and the best way to stop it developing is to remove sections that are damaged or rotten as soon as you can to prevent the spread of the fungus responsible for it. The replacement of wood that is rotting should be done with care and with a slow-growing deal (pine) and, if feasible, the same species as that which is being removed in order to prevent differential movement between the new and old timbers.

Glass became more affordable and abundant during the late medieval period and into the 17th century. In the process, glazed openings on timber-framed houses were more elaborate, with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and cills that protruded deep. In recent times, glass was fixed to frames that were rebated using double glazing repairs near me sprigs instead of lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak and break, but also allows wider sheets of clearer glass to be utilized than would have been possible otherwise without the use of lead 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. The large glass areas, deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, windows can be upgraded to increase their energy efficiency. However it is crucial to keep in mind that any such measures should be evaluated in terms of the overall appearance and integrity of the original window.

It is logical to fix or upgrade windows, rather than replacing them, especially when the improvement in thermal efficiency can be achieved through simple repairs. The windows that are historic have a lot considered to be of historical value because they demonstrate a variety in technical development and changes to architectural style. Most people think that these windows will have 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 essential to understand that the decay issues caused by traditional windows made of timber can be avoided through regular maintenance and prompt repairs. Additionally it is vital to recognize damp penetration issues and address them swiftly to prevent serious damage. The early deterioration of paint is a major problem because it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this issue to go unnoticed until paintwork begins to crack or become curly. However, it could cause structural damage and lead to further decay.

A quality paint will stop moisture from entering the paint. It is also necessary to keep the paintwork spotless in order to prevent condensation and the growth of mould. The use of modern synthetic paints can be problematic since they are typically designed to be water-resistant and this may lead to the formation of mildew in the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were manufactured from timber containing a high proportion of sapwood. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration rapidly if exposed to wet weather, but can be protected with a thorough preservative treatment before they are put to use. It is essential to select the right type of wood for the location and the climate, since these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window replacement cambridge manufacturers provide a wide range of sash window repair Cambridge timbers that can be customized to fit historic openings. They are available in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to historical buildings.

Maintenance

Regular inspection, careful redecoration, and prompt repairs can extend the lifespan of windows made of timber. The main cause of decay is moisture penetration through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

It is crucial that repairs to the old sash and casement windows are done correctly, and carried out with the minimum disturbance. A lot of traditional wooden window doctor near me designs can be repaired without dismantling the frame, and this approach should be followed whenever possible. Paint that is peeling or loose must be removed with care and sanded lightly to improve the “key” of the surface, allowing for an easier adhesion of the new coating. It is essential to not remove old paint layers, as they may have historical value.

If a piece of wood is rotting the best way to deal with it is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts designed to match existing profiles. The inserted timber should also be treated using wood preservative and the junction between masonry sub-cill and timber cill should be sealed.

It’s tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, particularly if the installer offers an installation that includes removal and replacement in one day. It is important that the installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the appropriate recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological upgrades that won’t harm the character of a historic building. Anyone who installs replacement windows must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed as a suitable option under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to the original building’s style. This is especially true when windows are installed in listed buildings and conservation areas.