Why Cambridge Window Is Still Relevant In 2023 Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained timber window is a crucial element of the historic fabric of a structure. It illustrates in varying degrees the materials and technologies, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the time that it was built in.

Whenever possible repairs to existing windows should be carried out in-situ. Repairing the most deteriorated areas of decay is possible with the help of specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were built to last for hundreds of years. They do require maintenance to keep them looking good. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords and retightening pulleys on sash, and painting. There is a growing need for upgrading timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This can involve replacing old glazing units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or putting in new cills that allow the air to seal better.

One of the major issues with traditional windows is damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially important where windows with sash are involved since the gaps between the sashes can be very wide. In these situations water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood underneath. The rotting process can be made worse due to weather conditions that are poor. To avoid this windows, they should be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas need to be repaired with a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the highest possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is also essential to minimise the number of holes that are 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 could result in sash no longer fitting correctly and jamming or sticking to the opening and broken glazing. 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 of a strong hardwood like oak, in order to prevent any the movement of new and old work.


There are now several companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash that fit into the majority of existing openings. These sash are available in a variety of sizes and finishes to meet the requirements of the modern homeowner. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and improved thermal insulation, these new sash options can make significant improvements to the energy efficiency of your home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value as they often show, in a particular way, the materials and technology and architectural taste of the time in which they originate. They could have significant historical significance in their own right. This is particularly true of early unglazed windows in timber-framed buildings, where the majority were simply a series of openings in structural frames subdivided horizontally by mullions, and vertically by wood or iron 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 moisture penetration should be stopped as soon as it is recognised. It is best to do this by thorough painting, especially where there is damage or degradation. It is best to choose paints that are intended to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number coats at each stage.

Wet rot is a common problem for old timber windows and the best way to stop it becoming a problem is to take out any damaged or rotten sections as soon as you can to prevent the spread of the fungus responsible for it. The replacement of rotting timber must be done with care by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, whenever feasible using the same species as 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 glazed openings on timber-framed houses were more elaborate, with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and cills that protruded deep. The glazing was increasingly laid within rebated frames and secured with 'glazing sprigs', rather than into 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

The traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction as well as focus on the smallest of details. The large glass areas, the deep projection cills and wide glazing areas minimize air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, the windows can be improved to increase their energy efficiency. However, it is important to remember that such measures must be considered in terms of the overall appearance and integrity of the window in its original form.

So, retaining old windows that are in need of repair instead of replacing them makes sense especially when their thermal improvements can be achieved economically through simple repairs and improvements. Historic windows often have historical significance that demonstrates a range of technical development and changes in architectural tastes. The pressure to replace these windows are typically based on the assumption that old windows will need replacement in the near future, however they are in a position to last for 150, 200 or even 250 years if properly maintained.

It is important to recognize that decay problems with traditional timber windows can be avoidable with quick and thorough repairs. It is also essential to recognize damp issues and correct them swiftly so that you can avoid serious damage. Early paint deterioration could be a problem as it allows moisture to get into the wood, causing wet rot. cambridge windows and doors is not uncommon for this damage to go unnoticed until the paintwork begins to crack or become curly. However, it could cause structural damage and then further decay.

A quality paint will block moisture penetration. It is also necessary to keep the paintwork in good condition to avoid mould and condensation. Modern synthetic paints pose a challenge because they are water-resistant, and can cause mildew to grow within the window frame.

The majority of older windows were constructed from timber with a high proportion of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to rain, however they can be preserved with an extensive preservation treatment prior 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 make a range of sash made of timber that can be adapted to fit specific historic openings. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to suit historic structures.

Maintenance

The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended by regular inspection, careful redecoration and timely repair. The main cause of decay is the penetration of moisture through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by thorough painting and using a good quality wood preservative.

Repairs to old sash windows as well as window frames made of casement should be handled with care and with the least amount of disruption. It is possible to fix many traditional timber window designs without removing the frame. This should be done whenever 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 paint layers that might have historical significance If these are present it is recommended that a paint analysis be conducted.

If a portion of wood is decayed, the best solution is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts designed to match the existing profiles. The wood that is inserted should be treated with a wood preserver and the connection between the timber cill and the sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.

Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u may be a tempting option, especially when the installer offers an "all-in-one" installation that takes care of both removal and replacement within one day. It is, however, essential that the person installing replacement windows has a full knowledge of the structure and history of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make appropriate suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technical improvements that won't harm the historical character of a building. The window installers who provide replacement windows must be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that the replacement windows are approved as a suitable solution under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to the original character of the building. This is especially relevant when windows are located within conservation areas or listed buildings.