Why Cambridge Window Is Greater Dangerous Than You Think Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is an important element of a building that is historic. It reflects in different levels, the technology and materials of the time it was constructed, the craftsmanship and architectural taste.

If repairs are possible to existing windows are required, they should be done in situ. Repairing the most deteriorated areas of decay can be done with the help of specialized resin-based systems.

Durability


Timber windows were designed to last for hundreds of years. They require regular maintenance to keep them looking good. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables and retightening pulleys for sash and painting. There is also a growing demand to upgrade timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This could include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates or installing new cills to increase the air seal.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is particularly important when sash windows are concerned, as the gaps between sashes can be very large. In these situations, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty underneath. The rotting may be further aggravated due to weather conditions that are poor. To avoid this windows from becoming rotten, they must be painted regularly using an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

Areas that have been damaged must also be repaired using resin-based products. This will ensure that the maximum amount of the original fabric is retained. It is also important to reduce the number of holes that are drilled into the frame for cable entry, as they could admit water and lead to decay.

upvc door repair cost of the wall can also lead to distortions in the frame and sash. This can lead to sash no longer fitting correctly, sticking or jamming in the opening and cracked glazing. This can be corrected often by putting in new sash frames made of slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be made from durable hardwood such as oak to avoid any movement between the existing and new work.

There are a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash to fit in with the majority of openings. These sash are available in a range of sizes and finishes to meet the needs of the modern homeowner. Together with quadruple draught strips and better thermal insulation these new sash can make a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of a house.

Aesthetics

Many old wooden windows have an excellent aesthetic value as they often show, in a particular way the materials and techniques and architectural taste of the time in when they were built. They could also have a significant historical significance in their own right. This is especially true for early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed structures, where the great majority were simply a series of openings within the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into wood or iron bars to keep out intruders.

It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. It is vital that any decay caused by the penetration of moisture should be stopped as soon as it is recognised. It is best to do this through thorough painting, especially where there is damage or degradation. It is best to use paints 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.

Wet rot is a frequent problem in older timber windows. The best method to stop it from growing is to eliminate any damaged or rotten sections as soon as you can to prevent the spread of the fungus responsible for it. The replacement of rotting wood should be carefully undertaken by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, if feasible it is the same species as which is being removed in order to prevent any movement differences between the new section and existing timbers.

Glass became less expensive and more abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. This led to the glazed openings in timber-framed homes became more complicated with moulded mullions, wooden tracery and cills that protruded deep. In recent times, glass was pinned into rebated frames with glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaks but also allows for more expansive and clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would otherwise be possible without the need for lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows have a good energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction, as well as careful attention to detailing. The large glass surfaces, the deep projection cills and wide glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, the windows can be improved to increase their energy efficiency. However it is crucial to keep in mind that these measures should be viewed in terms of the overall appearance and integrity of the window in its original form.

It is sensible to repair or upgrade existing historic windows rather than replace them, especially when the improvements in energy efficiency can be made by simple repairs. The windows of the past often have a historical value that illustrates a variety of technological advancement and changes in architectural style. The pressures to replace these windows are typically based on the assumption that the windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, but most are still capable of providing service for 150, 200 and even 250 years if properly maintained.

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. Additionally, it is essential to identify damp penetration problems and address them swiftly to avoid serious damage. The early deterioration of paint could be a problem as it allows moisture to get into the wood, causing wet rot. The damage is usually not noticed until the paintwork is cracking or wavy, but can cause significant structural damage and can lead to further decay.

A high-quality paint will prevent this moisture from entering. It is also important to keep the paintwork spotless in order to prevent condensation and mould growth. Modern synthetic paints pose a challenge since they are usually water-resistant, and can cause mildew to grow within the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed from timber with a high proportion of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to wet weather, but can be preserved with a thorough preservative treatment before they are put to use. It is important to choose the right type of wood for the site and climate, as these variables can affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide various types of sash timbers that can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historical structures.

Maintenance

Regular inspections, careful redecoration, and quick repairs can prolong the lifespan of windows made of timber. The main cause of decay is the infiltration of moisture through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by thorough painting and using high-quality wood preservative.

It is crucial that repairs to the old sash and casement windows are properly executed and done without causing any disturbance. It is possible to fix the majority of traditional wooden window designs without having to remove the frame. 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 enable the new coating to adhere better. It is crucial to not remove old paint layers that may have historical value.

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

It can be tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC U, particularly when the installer offers an 'all-in-one' installation which includes both removal and replacement in a single day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the right recommendations for energy efficiency improvements as well as other technological improvements that don't harm the character of a building that is historic. Those who provide replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacement windows are approved as a suitable option under Building Regulations. It is, of course, possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-u windows that match the character of the original building. This is especially true where the windows are located in listed buildings and conservation areas.