The Best Cambridge Window Methods To Transform Your Life Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained and maintained timber window is a significant element of the historical structure of a building. It reflects, in various degree the materials and technologies of the time period it was constructed, as well as the architectural style and craftsmanship.

If possible, repairs should be made in-situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay can be accomplished with the help of specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

The timber windows in many historic buildings were made to last for hundreds of years. They require regular maintenance to keep them looking great. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. There is also a rising demand to upgrade timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This could mean replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window rebates or putting up new cills to allow the air to seal better.

A key problem with traditional windows is damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important when sash windows are concerned as the gaps between sashes can often be very large. In these situations, water can penetrate the paint film and cause decay of the putty and the wood underneath. The rotting can be exacerbated by weather conditions that are not ideal. To stop this from happening, windows should be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

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

The structural movement of the wall can also lead to distortions in the frame as well as the sash. This can result in sash no longer fitting correctly or sticking or jamming into the opening and cracked glazing. Often this can be corrected through the installation of new sash boxes made from 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 old work.

There are now several companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash to fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in a range of sizes and finishes that meet the requirements of the modern homeowner. These sash are coupled with quadruple draft strips and improved thermal insulation can make a huge difference to the efficiency of your home's energy usage.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal, as they show, in some form, the materials, technology, and architectural taste from the time period they were built. They could also have a significant historic value in their individual cases. This is especially true for windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber framed buildings which were merely a series of openings in the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions and vertical iron or wood bars to keep out invaders.

It is essential to preserve the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. When you spot any signs of decay caused by the penetration of moisture, it is important to stop it. This can be done by painting thoroughly, especially in areas that have already suffered damage or degradation. It is advisable to use paints that are designed to be used as part of the system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations in terms of preparation and the amount of coats needed at each stage.

Wet rot is a common problem in old timber windows and the best way to stop it becoming a problem is to take out any damaged or rotten parts as soon as you can to prevent the spread of the fungus that causes it. Replace rotting wood with slow-growing deal (pine), and when possible, the exact kind of timber as the one being removed to prevent differential movement.

Glass became less expensive and more abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. This led to glazed openings on timber-framed houses became more complicated with moulded mullions, wooden tracery and cills that protruded deep. The glazing was increasingly set within rebated frames and secured with 'glazing sprigs', rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less susceptible to leaks, but it can allow for much wider and clearer sheets of glass to be used in windows than would be possible without the need for lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows provide an excellent energy performance due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very meticulous attention to detail. They also feature large glass areas as well as deep projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. The windows can be modified to improve their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However it is essential to keep in mind that any such measures should be evaluated in the context of the overall integrity and appearance of the window in its original form.

So, retaining the existing windows from the past that are in need of repair instead of replacing them is logical particularly when thermal improvements can be achieved cost-effectively through simple repairs and improvements. The windows of the past often have an historic value that demonstrates a range of technological advances and changes in architectural style. Most people assume that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, most can still provide service for 150, 200 or even 250 years if they are maintained with proper maintenance.

It is important to recognise that the decay problems caused by traditional timber windows can be avoided through regular maintenance and timely repairs. It is also important to identify damp problems and fix them quickly in order to avoid major damage. Early paint deterioration is a major problem because it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. This damage is often not noticed until the paintwork becomes cracking or wavy, but can cause significant structural damage, and could lead to further decay.

A high-quality paint will stop this moisture from entering. It is also necessary to keep the paintwork in good condition to avoid mould and condensation. The use of modern synthetic paints could be a problem since they are typically formulated to be water-resistant, and this may lead to the formation of mildew in the window frame.

The majority of older windows were manufactured from timber containing a high proportion of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to rain, however they can be preserved with a thorough preservation treatment before use. It is also essential to ensure that the type of wood used is suited to the site and climate conditions, as these factors will influence the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer a wide range of timber sash which can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be constructed to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom sizes that fit with the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance


The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended considerably by regular inspection as well as a careful redecoration and prompt repair. The main reason for decay is the infiltration of moisture through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be avoided by careful painting and using an excellent wood preservative.

It is essential that repairs to the old sash and casement windows are well executed, and carried out with the minimum disturbance. Many of the traditional designs for timber windows are repairable without removing the frame, and this approach should be taken whenever possible. Remove timber casement windows cost cambridge Repair My Windows And Doors or peeling paint and lightly sand the area to improve the "key" of the surface. This will enable the new coating to adhere better. Be careful to avoid stripping paint layers that might have historical significance, and where these are present, it is recommended that a paint analysis be conducted.

When a piece of wood is rotten, the best way to proceed is to take out the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to match existing profiles. The timber that is inserted should be treated with a wood preservative and the junction between masonry sub-cills 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 which includes removal and replacement within a single day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows have a thorough understanding of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements as well as other technological upgrades that won't affect the appearance of a building that is historic. The windows that are replaced should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are approved under Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u windows that are suited to the original character of the building. This is especially applicable when windows are in listed buildings or conservation areas.