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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is an important element of the historical fabric of a building. It illustrates in varying degrees the different materials and technologies as well as the craftsmanship and architectural style of the time period that it was built in.

Whenever possible repairs to existing windows should be done in-situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to fix the worst areas of decay without removing the whole window.

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last hundreds of years. However, they need to be maintained to ensure they look good and operating properly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords and retightening sash pulleys and painting. There is also a growing demand for upgrading timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This can include replacing old glazing units, fixing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills to increase the air seal.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is especially important in the case of sash windows, as the gaps between sashes can often be quite large. In these instances water may get through the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood beneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the decay. To stop this from happening, windows must be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.

Areas that have been damaged must be repaired with a resin-based product. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric is retained. It is important to minimize the number of holes drilled into the frame to allow cable entry, since they can let in moisture and cause decay.

The wall's structural movement can cause deformations in the frame and the sash. This can lead to sash no longer fitting correctly or sticking or jamming into the opening and broken glazing. This can be corrected often by putting in new sash frames constructed of slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be made from a sturdy hardwood, such as oak, to prevent differential movement between new and existing work.

There are a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash that fit into the majority of existing openings. These sash are available in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit the requirements of the modern homeowner. These new sash, when combined with quadruple draft strip and improved thermal insulation can make a huge difference to the energy-efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

A lot of old timber frames have a great aesthetic appeal, as they show, in some form, the quality of the wood technology, design, and taste from the time period they were built. They may have significant historical value in their own right. This is especially true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed buildings, which were merely a series of openings in the frame, which were divided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into iron or wood bars to deter invaders.

It is crucial to maintain the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. As soon as you notice any decay caused by moisture penetration it is essential to stop it. It is recommended to do this by thorough painting, especially if there is damage or deterioration. It is best 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 coats at each stage.

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

Glass became more affordable and abundant in the late medieval period and into the 17th century. In the process, glazed openings on timber-framed houses became more complex with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and deep cills projecting into the air. In the past, more often, the glass was set within rebated frames and pinned in with 'glazing sprigs', rather than into lead cames. This method of double Glazing repairs near me is not only less prone to leaks but also allows for larger and clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would be possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction, as well as their attention to detail. The large glass areas, deep projection cills and wide glazing areas reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing windows can be made more efficient to increase their energy efficiency. However, it is important to remember that such measures should be evaluated in relation to the overall integrity and appearance of the original window repair cambridge.

It is logical to fix or upgrade windows, rather than replacing them, particularly when improvement in thermal efficiency can be made by simple repairs. Historic windows are often of historical significance, since they reflect a variety of technical development and changes to architectural style. Most people think that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, many of them are still in service for 150,200, and even 250 years if they are maintained with proper maintenance.

It is essential to understand that the decay issues associated with traditional windows made of timber can be avoided through regular maintenance and swift repairs. In addition it is crucial to recognize damp penetration issues and to remedy them quickly to avoid major damage. Early paint deterioration could be a problem as it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, leading to wet rot. It is not uncommon for this issue to go unnoticed until the paintwork starts to crack or turn curly. However, it could cause structural damage and lead to further decay.

A good paint will prevent moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as it can be. Modern synthetic paints pose a challenge since they are usually water-resistant and can cause mildew to develop within the window frame.

The majority of older windows were manufactured from timber containing a high proportion of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate very rapidly if exposed to wet weather, however they can be preserved with a thorough treatment of preservative before they are used. It is important to choose the right type of wood for the location and climate, as these variables can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers have a wide range of timber sash which can be made to fit the historic openings. They can be made to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom dimensions that are compatible with the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance

Regular inspection as well as careful redecoration and quick repairs can prolong the lifespan of windows made of timber. The main cause of decay is moisture intrusion through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be prevented by using a good wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.

Repairs to old sash windows and window frames made of casement should be handled with care and with the least amount of disruption. Many of the traditional designs for timber windows can be repaired without removing the frame, and this approach should be taken whenever possible. Paint that is peeling or loose should be removed with care and sanded lightly to improve the "key" of the surface and facilitate an easier adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid stripping paint layers that may have historic value and if they are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted.

When a section of wood is rotting, the best solution is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts shaped to match the existing profiles. The timber inserts should be treated with wood preservative. The junction between masonry sub-cill and timber cill should be sealed.

It's tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC U, particularly when the installer offers an installation that includes both replacement and removal within a single day. It is, however, crucial that the person who installs replacement windows has a full understanding of the construction and history of traditional wooden frames. This will enable them to make the right recommendations for energy efficiency improvements as well as other technological advancements that won't affect the appearance of a building that is historic. The windows that are replaced must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacement windows are approved as a suitable option under Building Regulations. It is, of course, possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-U windows that fit the the building originally. This is especially true where the windows are located in listed buildings or conservation areas.