7 Things You Never Knew About Cambridge Window Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained timber window is a significant element of the historic fabric of a building. It reflects, in various degree the technology and materials of the time it was made, the craftsmanship and architectural taste.

When repairs are feasible to windows that are already in use should be made in-situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to repair the most damaged areas of decay without having to remove the entire window.

Durability

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

The corrosion of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is especially important where windows made of sash are involved because the gaps between the sashes can be quite large. In these circumstances water may get through the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood underneath. The weather can be a factor in accelerating the rotting. To prevent this from happening, windows need to be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

The areas that are damaged should be repaired using a resin-based product. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is essential to limit the number of holes created in the frame to allow cable entry since they can let in moisture and cause decay.

Another significant problem with older windows is structural movement in the wall, which can cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly, jamming or sticking in the opening, or breaking glass. Most often, this is corrected by fitting new sash boxes made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be made from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to avoid differential movement between the existing and new work.

To help reduce Repair My Windows And Doors There are a number of companies who make Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit most existing openings. The sash is available in various sizes and finishes that will meet the requirements of modern homeowners. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and improved thermal insulation, these sashes can make a an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a house.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames possess a dazzling aesthetic appeal because they show, in some shape, the materials technology, design, and style of the time they were made. They may also have a significant historic value in their individual cases. This is especially true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed structures, which were merely a series of openings within the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions and vertical wood or iron bars to deter intrusions.

It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. As soon as you notice any signs of decay due to the penetration of moisture it is essential to stop it. It is recommended to do this with thorough painting, particularly if there is damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints specifically designed to be used part of the system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding preparation and the number of coats required at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot can spread quickly in old windows made of timber. To prevent this, take out any rotten or damaged parts as promptly as you are able to. The replacement of rotting timber should be carefully undertaken by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, whenever feasible using the same species as that which is being removed to prevent differential movement between the new section and existing timbers.

In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became more affordable and plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became sophisticated, with tracery made of wood, moulded mullions and deep projection cills. In recent times, glass was fixed to frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs instead of lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaking but it also allows more expansive and clearer sheets of glass to be used in windows than would otherwise have been possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

The traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction, as well as their focus on particulars. The large glass surfaces, the deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas minimize air infiltration. The windows can be modified to improve their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However, it is important to remember that such measures should be viewed in relation to the overall appearance and integrity of the original window.

As a result, retaining the existing windows from the past that require repair instead of replacing them is sensible especially when their thermal improvements can be achieved economically through simple repairs and improvements. The windows of the past often have an historic value that demonstrates a range of technical development and changes in architectural taste. The pressure to replace these windows are usually based on the assumption that the windows that are old will need to be replaced in the near future, however they are capable of providing service for 150, 200 and even 250 years if properly maintained.

It is essential to realize that decay issues in traditional timber windows are avoidable with quick and thorough repairs. It is also essential to identify damp problems and correct them swiftly in order to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint is a concern because it allows moisture to get into the wood, which can cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this issue to go unnoticed until paintwork begins to crack or become curly. However, it could cause structural damage and lead to further decay.

A good quality paint will stop this moisture from entering. To prevent condensation and mould it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as it can be. The use of modern synthetic paints could be a problem because they are usually made to be water-resistant and this may result in the formation of mildew inside 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, however they can be protected with an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are used. It is also essential to ensure that the type of wood used is suited to the climate and site conditions, as these elements will influence the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide various types of sash made from timber that can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to suit historic structures.

Maintenance


Regular inspections as well as careful redecoration and quick repairs can prolong the life of timber windows. The primary cause of wood decay is moisture penetration through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a quality wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.

Repairs to old sash windows as well as casement window frames should be handled with care and with minimal disruption. It is possible to fix the majority of traditional wooden window designs without having to remove the frame. This is a must whenever it is possible. Remove loose or peeling paint and then lightly sand the surface to improve the "key" of the surface. This will enable the new coating to stick better. Be careful 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 carried out.

If a piece of wood has rotted, the best solution is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts designed to match existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with wood preservative and the joint between the timber cill and sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows using PVC-u may be a tempting option, especially when the installer offers a 'one stop shop' installation that handles both removal and replacement within the span of a day. However, it is essential that the person installing replacement windows has a full knowledge of the construction and history of traditional wooden frames. This will allow them to make the right suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological upgrades that won't alter the appearance of an historic building. Those who provide replacement windows should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are deemed acceptable by the Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to original building's character. This is especially true where the windows are located in listed buildings or conservation areas.