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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window installation cambridge made of timber is an important part of the historic fabric of a structure. It illustrates in varying degrees the different materials and technologies, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the period that it was built in.

If it is possible, repairs must be done in-situ. The repair system that is based on resin can be used to fix the worst areas of decay without having to remove the entire window.

Durability

The timber windows in many old buildings were built 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. There is also a rising demand to upgrade timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This can involve replacing old glass units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or putting in new cills that allow the air to seal better.

A key problem with traditional windows is the damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly true when windows made of sash are involved because the gaps between the sashes can be extremely wide. In these situations, water can penetrate the paint film and cause rotting of the putty as well as the wood beneath. The rotting can be exacerbated by weather conditions that are not ideal. To avoid this windows, they should be painted regularly using an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded need to be repaired with a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the highest possible amount of the original fabric is retained. It is also necessary to reduce the number of holes drilled into the frame for cable entry since these could allow water in 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 the sash. This can lead to sash not fitting correctly jamming, sticking or sagging in the opening, or breaking glass. This is often corrected by fitting new sash frames constructed of slow-grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill needs to be constructed of a durable hardwood, like oak, to avoid the movement of new and existing work.

There are several companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash that fit in with the majority of openings. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes to meet the requirements of modern-day homeowners. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and a better thermal insulation, these sashes can make a an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a house.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value as they often show, in a particular way the materials and technologies and architectural style of the time from when they were built. They also may have significant historical value in their own right. This is particularly true for windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed structures, where the majority were series of openings within structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions with vertical wood or iron bars to keep out invaders.

Traditional window joinery made of timber can be a stunning aspect of a building, and it is important to keep it looking good. It is crucial that any decay that results from water penetration is immediately stopped once it is recognised. This can be done by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas where there has already been damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints that are designed to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number of coats at each stage.

Wet rot is a frequent problem for old timber windows and the best method to stop it from growing is to eliminate sections that are damaged or rotten as soon as possible to stop the spread of the fungus that causes it. The replacement of wood that is rotting must be done with care by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, if feasible, the same species as which is being removed to prevent shifting between the new and old timbers.

Glass became more affordable and abundant during the late medieval period and into the 17th century. As a result, the glazed openings in timber-framed homes were more elaborate, with moulded mullions, tracery made of wood and deep projecting cills. Increasingly, the glazing was placed within frames with rebates and then pinned by 'double glazing seal repairs sprigs' rather than into lead cames. This method of double glazing repairs is not just less prone to leaks but also allows for much wider, clearer sheets of glass to be used in windows than would be possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

The traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness, multilayer construction and attention to the smallest of details. The large glass repair cambridge surfaces, the deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas minimize air infiltration. Windows can be designed to increase their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However, it is important to keep in mind that these measures should be evaluated in the context of the overall integrity and appearance of the window in its original form.

Therefore, keeping existing historic windows that are in need of repair instead of replacing them is logical, particularly when their thermal enhancements can be achieved economically through simple repairs and improvements. Older windows are usually of historical value, as they reflect a variety of technical development and changes to architectural style. The pressures to replace these windows are generally based on the assumption that the windows that are old will need to be replaced in the near future, but most are still capable of serving for 150, 200 and even 250 years if they are properly maintained.

It is important to recognize that decay problems with traditional timber windows can be avoidable with timely and thorough repairs. In addition it is vital to recognize damp penetration issues and fix them promptly to avoid serious damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early can be a problem because it allows moisture to get into the wood, which can cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this type of damage to go unnoticed until paintwork begins to crack or become curly. However, it could cause structural damage and further decay.

A good quality paint will prevent this moisture from entering. It is also necessary to keep the paintwork clean to avoid condensation and mould growth. The use of modern synthetic paints can pose a problem, as they are often made to be water-resistant and this can cause the growth of mildew inside the upvc window renovation (stay with me) frame.

Most older windows were made from sapwood-rich timber. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to rain, however they can be protected by a thorough preservation treatment before use. It is crucial to select the right type of wood for the location and climate, as these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers have various types of timber sash which can be made to fit the historic openings. They are available in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historical buildings.

Maintenance

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

It is important that repairs to the old sash and casement windows are well executed and done with the minimum disturbance. It is possible to fix the majority of traditional wooden window designs without having to remove the frame. This is a must whenever it is possible. Paint that is peeling or loose must be removed with care and sanded lightly to improve the 'key' of the surface and facilitate an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid stripping paint layers that might have historical significance If these are present, it is recommended that a paint analysis be carried out.

Where a section of timber has become rotten the best course of action is to remove the rotted material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to match existing profiles. The timber inserts should be treated with a wood preservative. The junction between masonry sub-cill and timber cill should be sealed.

It can be tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, especially when the installer provides an all-in-one installation that includes both removal and replacement in one day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements and other technical upgrades that won't harm the historic character of a building. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable option. It is quite possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-U windows that match the character of the original building. This is especially true when the windows are located in listed buildings or conservation areas.