7 Things You've Never Known About Cambridge Window Maintaining Timber Windows

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


If repairs are possible to existing windows should be done in-situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to repair the most deteriorated areas without removing the whole window.

Durability

The windows made of wood in many old structures were designed to last for hundreds of years. They do require some maintenance to ensure they look good. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords as well as tightening sash pulleys and painting. The demand for upgrading timber windows to improve energy efficiency is also growing. This could 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 problem with traditional windows. This is particularly true when windows with sash are involved since the gaps between the sashes can be very large. In these circumstances water may get through the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and underlying wood. The weather can be a factor in accelerating the decay. To stop this from happening windows, they should be painted regularly with a suitable exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded need to be repaired with the help of a resin-based repair solution. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric is retained. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes made into the frame in order to allow cable entry, because they could let in moisture and cause decay.

The structural movement of the wall can cause deformations in the frame and the sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly, jamming or sticking in the opening, or breaking glass. Often this can be corrected by the fitting of new sash boxes made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be constructed from durable hardwood such as oak to prevent movement between the existing and new work.

To help reduce this problem to reduce the risk of this happening, there are several companies that manufacture Boston pattern sash made of wood that can be fitted into most openings. The sash is available in various sizes and finishes that suit the needs of modern homeowners. The new sash, coupled with quadruple draft strips and a better thermal insulation, can make a significant difference to the efficiency of your home's energy usage.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value since they usually illustrate, in some way, the materials and technology and architectural taste of the time in which they date. They could also have a significant historic value in their own right. This is particularly true for early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, where the majority of them were series of openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions, and vertically by iron or wood bars in order to keep out intruders.

It is essential to preserve the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. As soon as you see any signs of decay due to water penetration it is crucial to stop it. It is recommended to do this by thorough painting, especially where there is damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints that are specifically designed to be used as part of the system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and follow the manufacturer's instructions in relation to preparation and number of coats needed at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot can quickly spread in old timber windows. To prevent this, take out any rotten or damaged parts as quickly as you can. The replacement of rotting wood should be done with care and using slow grown deal (pine) and, whenever feasible using the same species as that which is being removed in order to prevent any movement differences between the new section and existing timbers.

Glass became more affordable and abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. As a result, the glazed openings in timber-framed homes were more elaborate, with moulded mullions, tracery made of wood and deep projecting cills. In recent years, glazing was fixed to rebated frames with glazing sprigs instead of lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less prone to leaks but it also allows much wider clearer, more transparent sheets of glass to be used in windows than would otherwise be possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

The traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness, multilayer construction and care for detail. They also feature large glass areas and projection cills which reduce air infiltration. timber double glazed windows cambridge RepairMyWindowsAndDoors can be modified to increase their energy efficiency through draughtproofing and secondary glazing. It is important to keep in mind that these measures should be taken into consideration when it comes to the overall integrity and look of the original windows.

It is logical to fix or upgrade windows that are older rather than replacing them, particularly when improvements in thermal efficiency can be achieved through simple repairs. The windows that are historic have a lot considered to be of historical value because they reflect a variety of technical development and changes to the architectural style. Most people think that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, many of them can still provide service for 150,200, and even 250 years with proper maintenance.

It is essential to understand that the decay issues associated with traditional windows made of timber can be avoided by regular maintenance and swift repairs. It is also crucial to recognize damp issues and correct them swiftly so that you can avoid serious damage. Early deterioration of paint is a major problem since it allows moisture penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. This damage is often not apparent until the paintwork is wavy or cracked however, it can cause serious structural damage and can lead to further decay.

A quality paint will prevent moisture penetration. It is also essential to keep the paintwork spotless in order to prevent condensation and mould growth. Modern synthetic paints pose a challenge because they are often water-resistant and may cause mildew to develop in the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed from sapwood-rich timber. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration rapidly if exposed to wet weather conditions, but they can be protected by a thorough treatment of preservative before they are used. It is also important to ensure that the kind of timber used is well-suited to the climate and site conditions, as these elements affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers create a variety of timber sash that can be customized to fit specific historic openings. They can be constructed according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to specific sizes that fit with the historic architecture.

Maintenance

The life span of windows made from timber can be extended significantly through regular inspections, careful redecoration and timely repair. The main reason for the decay is the infiltration of moisture through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

Repairs to sash windows that are old and frameless casement windows should be handled with care and minimal disruption. It is possible to fix many traditional timber window designs without having to remove the frame. This should be done as often as is feasible. Remove loose or peeling paint and lightly sand the surface to improve the 'key" of the surface. This will enable the new coating to adhere better. Care should be taken to avoid stripping old paint layers which might have historical significance If these are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted.

If a piece of wood is rotting, the best solution is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts shaped to match existing profiles. The timber that is inserted should be treated using wood preservative, and the joint between the masonry sub-cill and the timber cill should be sealed.

It's tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC U, particularly if the installer offers an installation that includes both removal and replacement in a single day. It is, however, vital that the installer of windows replacement has a thorough knowledge of the structure and history of traditional wooden frames. This will allow them to make the appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological advancements that won't alter the appearance of a building that is historic. Anyone who installs replacement windows must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are approved under Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. It is quite possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-u windows that match the character of the original building. This is especially applicable when windows are located within listed buildings or conservation areas.