A Handbook For Cambridge Window From Beginning To End Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is a crucial part of a historic building. It reflects in varying degrees, the materials and technologies of the time in which it was constructed, as well as the architectural style and craftsmanship.

When possible, repairs should be made in-situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to fix the most deteriorated areas without removing the whole window.

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last for hundreds of years. They do require some maintenance to ensure they look good. Maintenance tasks include sash cord repairs as well as tightening the pulleys on sash, and painting. There is also a growing demand for upgrading timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This may include replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window rebates or installing new cills to increase the air seal.

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 quite wide. In these circumstances, water can penetrate the paint film and cause decay of the putty and the wood beneath. aluminium casement windows cambridge can exacerbate the rotting. To stop this from happening windows from becoming rotten, they must be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

Corroded areas should be repaired with resin-based products. This will ensure that the highest possible amount of the original fabric is retained. It is essential to limit the number of holes made into the frame in order to allow cable access, as these can admit moisture and cause decay.

Another major issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall which can lead to deformation of the frame and the sash. This can lead to sash no longer fitting correctly or sticking or jamming into the opening and cracked glazing. This can be fixed frequently by fitting new sash frames made of slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be constructed from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to prevent movement between the new and existing work.

To reduce the risk, there are now several companies that make Boston pattern wooden sash that can be fitted into most openings. They are available in various sizes and finishes to suit the needs of modern homeowners. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and a better thermal insulation, these new sash options can make a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of your home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value as they often illustrate, in some way, the materials and technology and architectural style of the time in when they were built. They may also have significant historical significance on their own. This is especially true for early unglazed window openings in timber-framed structures, where the great majority were simply a series of openings within the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into iron or wood bars to deter invaders.

It is essential to preserve the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. It is crucial that any decay resulting from water penetration is stopped as soon as it is recognised. It is recommended to do this through thorough painting, particularly if there has been damage or degradation. It is best to use paints that are designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish), and to adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for preparation and number of coats at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot can quickly spread in old timber windows. To prevent this from happening, get rid of any damaged or rotten parts as promptly as you are able to. The replacement of rotting timber should be done with care and with a slow-growing 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 and old timbers.

Glass became cheaper and more abundant in the late medieval period and into the 17th century. In the process, the glazed openings in timber-framed homes were more elaborate, with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and deep cills projecting into the air. In recent years, glass was fixed into frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaking but also allows for much wider and clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would have been possible without the need for lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows provide a good energy performance due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very attentive attention to detail. The large glass areas, the deep projection cills and wide glazing areas minimize air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing the windows can be improved to increase their energy efficiency. It is important to remember that these measures must be taken into consideration when it comes to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.

It is sensible to repair or upgrade existing windows, rather than replacing them, particularly when improvements in thermal efficiency can be made by simple repairs. Historic windows are often of historical value, as they demonstrate a variety in technical development and changes to the architectural style. Many people believe that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, many of them are still in service for 150,200, and even 250 years if they are maintained with proper maintenance.

It is important to recognize that decay issues with traditional timber windows can be avoidable with timely and thorough repairs. Additionally, it is essential to recognize damp penetration issues and address them swiftly to avoid major damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early could be a problem as it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, which can cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go unnoticed until the paintwork begins to crack or becomes curly. However, it can cause structural damage and further decay.

A high-quality paint will prevent this moisture from entering. To prevent condensation and mould it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints pose a challenge since they are usually water-resistant and may cause mildew to develop within the window frame.

The majority of older windows were made from timber that contained an extensive proportion of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate very rapidly if exposed to wet weather conditions, but they can be preserved with a thorough preservative treatment before they are put to use. It is important to choose the appropriate type of wood for the site and the climate, since these factors will affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers make a range of sash made of timber that can be tailored to fit specific historic openings. They can be built according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom dimensions that are compatible with the historic architecture.

Maintenance


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

It is important that repairs to the old sash and casement windows are properly executed, and carried out with minimal disruption. It is possible to fix many traditional timber window designs without removing the frame. This is a must whenever it is possible. Remove peeling or loose paint and then lightly sand the surface to improve the 'key" of the surface. This will enable the new coating to adhere better. Be careful to avoid stripping old paint layers that might have historical significance If these are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted.

If a portion of wood is rotting the best option is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The inserted timber should also be treated with wood preservative, and the joint between masonry sub-cill and timber cill should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u can be an attractive option, especially when the installer provides an "all-in-one" installation that takes care of removal and replacement in one day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements and other technological upgrades that will not harm the historical character of a building. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that replacement windows are deemed to be approved under Building Regulations as a suitable option. It is quite possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-u windows that fit the the building originally. This is particularly true when the windows are in conservation areas or listed buildings.