Why Cambridge Window Is Fast Increasing To Be The Hottest Trend Of 2023 Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is an important element of the historical fabric of a building. It reflects in different degrees, the technology and materials of the time in which it was constructed, the craftsmanship and architectural taste.


Whenever possible repairs to windows that are already in use should be carried out in situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to repair the most deteriorated areas without removing the entire window.

Durability

Timber windows were built to last hundreds of years. However, they need to be maintained to keep them looking great and working properly. The most common maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. The need to upgrade windows made of timber to improve energy efficiency is also growing. This could include replacing old glazing units, fixing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills for improved air seal.

One of the major issues with traditional windows is the damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially important where sash windows are involved as the gaps between sashes can be very large. In these instances, water can penetrate the paint film and cause rotting of the putty as well as the wood underneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the decay. To stop this from happening, windows need to be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded need to be repaired with a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric remains. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes made into the frame to allow cable entry since they can let in moisture and cause decay.

Another issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall that can lead to deformation of the frame and the sash. This can result in sash not fitting correctly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and broken glass. This can be fixed frequently by putting in new frames for sash made of slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill needs to be constructed from a sturdy hardwood, such as oak, to avoid shifting between the new and older work.

There are now several companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash to 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. Combined with quadruple draught strips and a better thermal insulation, these sashes can make a an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value as they often illustrate, in some way the materials and techniques and architectural style of the time from when they were built. They may also have a significant historic value in their individual cases. This is especially true of early unglazed windows in timber-framed structures, where the majority of them were series of openings in frames of structural construction, which were divided horizontally by mullions with vertical iron or wood bars to keep out intrusions.

Traditional window joinery made from timber can be a highly decorative feature of a building and it is important to maintain its appearance. As soon as you see any signs of decay due to water penetration it is essential to stop it. It is best to do this with thorough painting, particularly if there is damage or deterioration. It is recommended 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.

The fungus that causes wet rot is able to spread quickly in old timber windows. To prevent this, get rid of any damaged or rotten components as quickly as you can. The replacement of rotting timber should be carefully undertaken using slow grown deal (pine) and, if possible it is the same species as which is being removed to prevent differential movement between the new section and existing timbers.

Glass became more affordable and abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. This led to glazed openings on timber-framed houses became more complex with moulded mullions, tracery made of wood and deep projecting cills. In the past, more often, the glass was set within rebated frames and then pinned with 'glazing sprigs' rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak and also allows more clear glass sheets to be used than would have been feasible without the use of led lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows offer an excellent energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction, as well as meticulous attention to detail. They also feature large glass areas and projecting cills that minimise air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, the windows can be improved to increase their energy efficiency. However it is crucial to keep in mind that any such measures should be viewed in the context of the overall appearance and integrity of the original window.

It makes sense to repair or upgrade existing historic windows rather than replace them, especially when the improvement in thermal efficiency can be made by simple repairs. Historic windows are often of historical value, as they reflect a variety of technological advancements and changes to architectural taste. The pressures to replace such windows are typically based on the assumption that the windows that are old will need to be replaced in the near future, however the majority of them are capable of serving for 150, 200 and even 250 years if they are properly maintained.

It is crucial to understand that decay issues associated with traditional timber windows can be preventable by prompt and thorough repairs. It is also crucial to identify damp problems and address them promptly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint is a concern because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, leading to wet rot. The damage is usually not apparent until the paintwork is cracking or wavy however, it can cause serious structural damage and can lead to further decay.

A high-quality paint will prevent this moisture from entering. It is also necessary to keep the paintwork in good condition to avoid condensation and mould growth. Modern synthetic paints can pose a problem, as they are often designed to be water-resistant which can result in the formation of mildew within the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed from sapwood-rich wood. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to moist weather, but can be preserved with a thorough treatment of preservative before they are used. It is essential to select the right type of wood for your location and climate, as these variables can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers produce a range of sash made of timber that can be adapted to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit the architectural style of historic structures.

Maintenance

Regular inspection, careful redecoration, and quick repairs can prolong the life of wooden windows. The primary cause of wood decay is moisture penetration through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by thorough painting and using high-quality wood preservative.

Repairs to sash windows that are old and frameless casement windows must be done with care and with minimal disruption. Many traditional timber window designs can be repaired without dismantling the frame, and this method should be followed whenever feasible. Paint that is peeling or loose should be removed with care and lightly sanded to improve the 'key' of the surface, allowing for an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid stripping old paint layers that could have historical value If these are present, it is recommended that a paint analysis be conducted.

When a section of wood is rotting the best option is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts designed to match the existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with a wood preserver and the joint between the timber cill and the masonry sub-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 which includes removal and replacement within a single day. It is essential that 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 an historic building. repairmywindowsanddoors should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that replacement windows are approved in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. It is certainly possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-U windows that fit the character of the building originally. This is particularly applicable when windows are in listed buildings or conservation areas.