How Cambridge Window Altered My Life For The Better Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained timber window is a crucial element of the historical fabric of a structure. It reflects, in various levels, the materials and techniques of the time it was constructed, the craftsmanship and architectural taste.

When repairs are feasible to windows that are already in use should be carried out in situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to fix the worst areas of decay without removing the entire window.

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last hundreds of years. They do require maintenance to keep them looking great. The most frequent maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs as well as tightening sash pulleys and painting. There is a growing need to upgrade timber windows to increase the efficiency of energy. This may include replacing old glazing units, fixing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills to increase the air seal.

The corrosion 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 quite wide. In these circumstances water may get through the paint film and cause rotting of the putty as well as the wood beneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the decay. To prevent this from happening, windows should be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded need to be repaired with an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is essential to limit the number of holes made in the frame to allow cable access, because they could let in moisture and cause decay.

Another major issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall, which could cause deformation of the frame and the sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly, jamming or sticking in the opening, or breaking glass. This can be fixed frequently by putting in new frames for sash made of slow-growing deal (pine), or oak. The cill must be made of a durable hardwood, such as oak, in order to prevent any differential movement between new and old work.

To alleviate this issue There are several companies that make 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 that meet the needs of the modern homeowner. These sash are combined with quadruple draft strips and a better thermal insulation, can make a significant difference to the efficiency of a home's energy use.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value because they typically illustrate, in some way the materials and techniques and architectural taste of the period from which they originate. They may also have significant historical value in their in their own right. This is especially true of early windows that were not glazed in timber framed buildings where the great majority were just a collection of openings in the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions and vertical iron or wood bars to deter intruders.

Traditional timber window joinery can be a stunning element of a structure and it is important to keep its appearance. It is vital that any decay caused by moisture penetration should be immediately stopped once it is identified. It is recommended to do this with thorough painting, particularly if there has been damage or degradation. It is best to choose paints that are intended 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.

The fungus that causes wet rot is able to spread quickly in old windows made of timber. To stop this from happening, remove any rotten or damaged parts as promptly as you are able to. The replacement of rotting wood must be done with care by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, whenever feasible using the same species as that which is being removed to prevent shifting between the new section and existing timbers.

In the late period of the 17th century and the middle of the medieval period, glass became cheaper and more plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became sophisticated, with tracery made of wood, moulded mullions and deep projecting cills. The glazing was increasingly laid within rebated frames and pinned in by 'glazing sprigs' rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less prone to leaking but it can allow for much wider and clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would be possible without the need for lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness, multilayer construction and attention to particulars. The large glass areas, deep projecting cills and large glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. The windows can be modified to improve their energy efficiency by draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However it is crucial to keep in mind that these measures should be viewed in the context of the overall appearance and integrity of the original window.

It is logical to fix or upgrade windows that are older rather than replacing them, especially when the improvements in thermal efficiency can be made by simple repairs. Historic windows are often considered to be of historical value because they demonstrate a variety in technological advancements and changes to architectural style. The pressures to replace these windows are usually based on the assumption that windows that are old will need to be replaced in the near future, however they are capable of providing service for 150, 200 or even 250 years if they are properly maintained.

It is essential to understand that the decay issues that are typical of windows made of timber can be avoided by thorough maintenance and timely repairs. In addition it is crucial to recognize damp penetration issues and fix them promptly to avoid serious damage. Early paint deterioration is a major problem as it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this type of damage to go unnoticed until paintwork begins to crack or becomes curly. However, it can cause structural damage and further decay.


A paint of good quality will block moisture penetration. window seal repairs near me repairmywindowsanddoors is also important to keep the paintwork clean in order to prevent mould and condensation. Modern synthetic paints could be a problem because they are usually made to be water-resistant which can lead to the formation of mildew within the window frame.

The majority of older windows were constructed of sapwood-rich timber. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to moist weather, but can be protected by a thorough treatment of preservative before they are used. 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 manufacturers create various types of timber sash that can be adapted to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be built to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that are in keeping with historic buildings.

Maintenance

Regular inspection, careful redecoration, and prompt repairs can extend the life of wooden windows. The main cause of decay is moisture intrusion through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be avoided with thorough painting and using an excellent wood preservative.

Repairs to old sash windows as well as casement window frames must be done with care and minimal disruption. It is possible to fix many traditional timber window designs without taking the frame off. This should be done whenever possible. Peeling or loose paint should be removed with care and sanded lightly to increase the "key" of the surface and allow for an improved adhesion of the new coating. Care should be taken to avoid stripping old paint layers that may have historic value and if they are present it is recommended that a paint analysis be carried out.

When a section of wood is rotting the best way to deal with it is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts shaped to match existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with wood preservative and the connection between the timber cill and 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 removal and replacement in the span of a day. It is crucial that the person who installs windows replacement has a thorough knowledge 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 upgrades that won't alter the appearance of a historic building. The window installers who provide replacement windows must be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed as a suitable solution under Building Regulations. It is, of course, possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-u windows that match the the original building. This is especially applicable when windows are in listed buildings or conservation areas.