How To Find The Perfect Cambridge Window Online Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is an essential part of a historic building. It demonstrates in various degrees the different materials and technologies, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the period from which it originates.

If possible, repairs should be done in-situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay can be done using proprietary resin-based systems.

Durability

The windows made of timber in many old structures were designed to last for a long time. They do require some maintenance to keep them looking good. Maintenance tasks include sash cord repairs as well as tightening the pulleys for sash and painting. There is also a growing demand to upgrade timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This could mean replacing old glass units, fixing existing window rebates, or installing new cills to allow for better air sealing.

One of the major issues with traditional windows is the damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially true in the case of sash windows as the gaps between sashes can often be quite large. In these cases water can enter the paint film and cause rotting of the putty or wood beneath. The rotting may be further aggravated due to weather conditions that are poor. To prevent this from happening, windows need to be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas need to be repaired with an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure that the greatest amount of original fabric is preserved. It is also important to reduce the number of holes drilled into the frame for cable entry, as they could allow water in and cause decay.

The structural movement of the wall can cause distortions in the frame and the sash. This could result in the sash fitting incorrectly and jamming or sticking into the opening, and even broken glass. This can often be fixed through the installation of new sash boxes constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed from durable hardwood such as oak to prevent movement between the new and existing work.

To help reduce this problem, there are now several companies that make Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit into the majority of existing openings. These sash are available in a range of sizes and finishes to meet the needs of the modern homeowner. Combined with quadruple draught strips and better thermal insulation these new sash can make significant improvements to the energy efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal because they display, in a certain form, the materials technology, design, and aesthetics of the time they were made. They could have significant historical significance as a set. This is particularly true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, which were simply a series of openings in the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into wood or iron bars to keep out intrusions.

Traditional window joinery made from timber is a beautiful aspect of a building, and is crucial to keep it looking good. As soon as you see any signs of decay caused by the penetration of moisture it is essential to stop it. It is recommended to do this by thorough painting, particularly if there has been damage or degradation. It is best to use paints designed to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preparation and number coats at each stage.

The fungus responsible for wet rot can quickly spread in old windows made of timber. To prevent this from happening, remove any damaged or rotten parts as soon as you can. Replace rotting wood with slow-growing deal (pine), and if possible, the same kind of timber as the one being removed to prevent the possibility of differential movement.

Glass became less expensive and more abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. As a result, the openings for glazed windows on timber-framed houses became more complicated with moulded mullions, wooden tracery and deep cills projecting into the air. In the past, more often, the glass was laid within rebated frames and pinned in with 'glazing sprigs' rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak, but also allows for more clear glass sheets to be utilized than would have been feasible without the use of lead lights.


Energy efficiency

The traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction as well as attention to detail. The large glass areas, the deep projecting cills and large glazing areas minimize air infiltration. The windows can be made to increase their energy efficiency by draught-proofing and secondary glazing. It is important to remember that these measures should be taken into consideration in relation to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.

Therefore, keeping old windows that are in need of repair rather than replacing them is logical, particularly when their thermal enhancements can be achieved cost-effectively through simple repairs and upgrades. The windows that are historic have a lot considered to be of historical value because they demonstrate a variety in technological advancement and changes in architectural style. The pressure 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 the majority of them are capable of providing service for 150, 200 or even 250 years if they are properly maintained.

It is essential to realize that decay issues associated with traditional timber windows can be preventable by timely and thorough repairs. In addition it is crucial to identify damp penetration problems and address them swiftly to avoid major damage. Early paint deterioration can be a problem because it allows moisture to get into the wood, leading to wet rot. The damage is usually not noticed until the paintwork becomes cracking or wavy however, it can cause serious structural damage and can lead to further decay.

A good quality paint will stop this moisture penetration. It is also important to keep the paintwork in good condition to avoid mould and condensation. Modern synthetic paints pose a problem because they are often water-resistant, and can cause mildew to grow in the window frame.

Most older windows were made from sapwood-rich wood. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration rapidly if exposed to wet weather, however they can be protected with an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are put to use. It is important to choose the right kind of wood for your location and the climate, since these factors can affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers produce a range of sash made of timber that can be customized to fit specific openings from the past. They can be built to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that fit with the historic architecture.

Maintenance

The life of timber windows can be extended by regular inspection, careful redecoration and timely repair. The most common reason for decay is moisture infiltration through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by careful painting and using an excellent wood preservative.

Repairs to old sash windows and window frames made of casement should be done with care and with the least amount of disruption. It is possible to repair the majority of traditional wooden window designs without taking the frame off. This should be done as often as is feasible. Remove any peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the area to improve the "key" of the surface. This will allow the new coating to adhere better. It is important to avoid stripping old paint layers that may have historic value and if they are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted.

If a portion of wood is decayed the best way to deal with it is to remove it and replace it with 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.

Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u is an attractive option, especially when the installer offers a 'one stop shop' installation service that can handle removal and replacement in a day. wood casement windows cambridge Repair My Windows And Doors is essential that installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the appropriate suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technical upgrades that will not harm the character of a historic building. Anyone who installs replacement windows should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme like as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed as a suitable option under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can install PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to the original character of the building. This is especially relevant when windows are located within listed buildings or conservation areas.