It's Time To Expand Your Cambridge Window Options Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is an essential component of a historical building. It reflects, in various levels, the technology and materials of the time it was constructed, as well as the craftsmanship and architectural taste.

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

Durability

The windows made of wood in many historic buildings were made to last for centuries. However, they do need to be maintained to keep them looking great and working correctly. Maintenance tasks include sash cord repairs, retightening of pulleys for sash and painting. The demand for enhancing timber windows to improve energy efficiency is also growing. This could mean replacing old glass units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or putting up new cills to allow the air to seal better.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is particularly true when windows with sash are involved since the gaps between sashes can be quite large. In these circumstances water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty as well as the wood underneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the rotting. To stop this from happening, windows should be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

Areas that have been damaged must be repaired with a resin-based product. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is also important to limit 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 deformations in the frame and sash. This can lead to the sash fitting incorrectly and jamming or sticking into the opening, and broken glass. This can often be fixed by the fitting of new sash boxes made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed from durable hardwood such as oak to avoid any movement between the new and existing work.

There are several companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash to fit into the majority of existing openings. These sash come in various sizes and finishes that fit the needs of modern-day homeowners. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and improved thermal insulation, these new sash options can make significant improvements to the energy efficiency of a house.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value as they often demonstrate, in a way the materials and techniques and architectural style of the time in which they originate. They may also have significant historical value in their own right. This is particularly true for early unglazed windows in timber-framed structures, where the majority were simply a series of openings in structural frames subdivided horizontally by mullions with vertical iron or wood bars in order to protect against intruders.


It is essential to preserve the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. It is essential that any decay resulting from the penetration of moisture should be removed as soon as it is identified. This can be done by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas where there has already been damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints that are designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish) and adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for preparation and number coats at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot can spread quickly in old windows made of timber. To prevent this from happening, get rid of any damaged or rotten components as soon as you can. The replacement of rotting timber should be done with care and with a slow-growing deal (pine) and, wherever feasible, the same species as that which is being removed to prevent shifting between the new section and the existing timbers.

Glass became cheaper and more abundant during the late medieval period and into the 17th century. This led to the glazed openings in timber-framed homes were more elaborate, with moulded mullions, wooden tracery and deep projecting cills. In recent years, glass was pinned into frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs instead of lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak and break, but also allows larger sheets of glass to be utilized than would have been possible otherwise without the use of leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows provide excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness and multi-layer construction, as well as attentive attention to detail. The large glass areas, deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, the windows can be improved to increase their energy efficiency. It is essential to keep in mind that these measures need to be considered in relation to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows.

As a result, retaining existing historic windows that are in need of repair rather than replacing them makes sense especially when their thermal enhancements can be made inexpensively with simple repairs and improvements. Older windows typically have an historic value that shows a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural tastes. Most people think that the windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, cambridge windows are still in service for 150, 200 or even 250 years if they are maintained with proper maintenance.

It is essential to realize that decay issues associated in traditional timber windows are preventable by prompt and thorough repairs. Additionally, it is essential to recognize damp penetration issues and to remedy them quickly to prevent serious damage. The early deterioration of paint is a major issue, since it allows moisture penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. This damage is often not apparent until the paintwork becomes cracking or wavy but it can cause severe structural damage and can lead to further decay.

A good quality paint will stop this moisture from entering. It is also essential to keep the paintwork in good condition in order to prevent condensation and mould growth. The use of modern synthetic paints can pose a problem, as they are often formulated to be water-resistant, and this can cause the growth of mildew in the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed from timber with an extensive proportion of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to wet weather, but 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 suitable to the location and climate conditions, as these elements will influence the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer various types of sash made from timber that can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be constructed according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that are in keeping with the historic architecture.

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 primary reason for the decay is moisture infiltration through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be prevented by using a good wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

Repairs to old sash windows as well as casement window frames should be handled with care and with minimal disruption. Many traditional timber window designs are repairable without removing the frame, and this method should be followed whenever possible. Loose or peeling paint must be removed with care and sanded lightly to increase the 'key' of the surface, allowing for an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid stripping paint layers that may have historic value, and where these are present, it is recommended that a paint analysis be carried out.

When a piece of wood is rotten, the best way to proceed is to eliminate the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to fit the existing profiles. The inserted timber should also be treated using wood preservative and the junction between masonry sub-cill and timber cill should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u is an appealing option, particularly when the installer provides an "all-in-one" installation service that can handle removal and replacement within one day. However, it is crucial that the person who installs windows replacement has a thorough understanding of the construction and history of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the right suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technical upgrades that do not alter the historic character of a building. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved as a suitable solution in accordance with Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to the original building's style. This is particularly true where windows are installed in listed buildings or conservation areas.