Maintaining Timber Windows

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

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

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last for centuries. They do require maintenance to keep them looking good. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks are repairs to sash-cords as well as tightening sash pulleys and painting. There is a growing need to upgrade the timber windows to increase the efficiency of energy. This could mean replacing old glass units, fixing existing window rebates or putting up new cills for better air sealing.

The corrosion of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is especially important in the case of sash windows, as the gaps between sashes may be very large. In these circumstances water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood underneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the decay. To stop this from happening, windows must be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.

Areas that have been damaged must be repaired using resin-based products. This will ensure that the highest possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is also essential to limit the number of holes you drill into the frame for cable entry since these could allow water in and cause decay.

The wall's structural movement can cause deformations in the frame and sash window repair cambridge. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly and jamming or sticking to the opening, and damaged glazing. Most often, this is corrected through the installation of new sash boxes that have been constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed of a durable hardwood, such as oak, in order to prevent any the movement of new and old work.

There are several 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 suit the needs of the modern homeowner. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and better thermal insulation these sashes can make a a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of your home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal, since they display, in a certain form, the quality of the wood technology, design, and style of the time they were made. They may have significant historical value in their own right. This is especially true of early unglazed windows in timber-framed buildings, where the majority were simply a series openings in structural frames subdivided horizontally by mullions, and vertically by wood or iron bars in order to protect against intrusions.

Traditional window joinery made of timber can be a highly decorative element of a structure and is essential to maintain its appearance. When you spot any signs of decay due to moisture penetration, it is important to stop it. This is best done by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas that have already suffered damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints designed to be used as part of the system (primer undercoat, finish) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations in relation to preparation and number of coats needed at each stage.

The fungus responsible for wet rot can quickly spread in old timber windows. To stop this from happening, take out any damaged or rotten components as soon as you can. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine), and should it be possible, the same kind of timber as the one being removed, to avoid the possibility of differential movement.

Glass became less expensive 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 cills projecting into the air. In the past, more often, the glass was laid within rebated frames and then pinned by 'glazing sprigs' rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less prone to leaking but it also allows much wider and clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would otherwise have been possible without the need for lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction, as well as their care for detail. The large glass areas, the deep projection cills and wide glazing areas reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, windows can be upgraded to increase their energy efficiency. It is important to remember that these measures must be considered in relation to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.

It makes sense to fix or upgrade windows, rather than replacing them, particularly when improvement in thermal efficiency can be made through simple upvc repairs. Historic windows often have historical significance that demonstrates a range of technological advances and changes in architectural style. The pressures to replace these windows are generally based on the assumption that the old windows will need replacement in the near future, however they are capable of serving for 150, 200 and even 250 years if they are properly maintained.

It is essential to realize that decay problems in traditional timber windows are avoidable with quick and thorough repairs. Additionally it is vital to recognize damp penetration issues and address them swiftly to avoid serious damage. The early deterioration of paint is a concern because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, causing wet rot. It is not uncommon for this issue to go unnoticed until paintwork begins to crack or becomes curly. However, it could cause structural damage and lead to further decay.

A quality paint will stop moisture from entering the paint. It is also important to keep the paintwork in good condition in order to prevent condensation and the growth of mould. The use of modern synthetic paints could be a problem since they are typically designed to be water-resistant which can cause the growth of mildew inside the window frame.

The majority of older windows were made from timber that contained the majority of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate very rapidly if exposed to wet weather, however they can be preserved with an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are put to use. It is essential to select the appropriate type of wood for the location and the climate, since these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers create various types of timber sash that can be customized to fit specific openings from the past. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance

Regular inspection as well as careful redecoration and timely repairs can prolong the life of timber windows cambridge. The major cause of decay is moisture leaking through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided with thorough painting and the use of high-quality wood preservative.

It is essential that repairs to old sash and casement windows are well executed, and carried out with minimal disruption. It is possible to fix the majority of traditional wooden garden Window repair designs without taking the frame off. This should be done whenever possible. Remove peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the area to improve the 'key" of the surface. This will enable the new coating to stick better. Be careful to avoid stripping old paint layers which could have historical value, and where these are present it is recommended that a study of the paint be carried out.

If a portion of wood has rotted the best way to deal with it is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts shaped to match the existing profiles. The wood that is inserted should be treated with wood preservative and the connection between the timber cill and the sub-cill for masonry should be sealed.

Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u can be a tempting option, especially when the installer offers a "one-stop shop" installation that handles removal and replacement in a day. It is vital that the installer of replacement windows has a complete knowledge of the structure and history of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the right recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological upgrades that won't affect the appearance of a historic building. window seal repairs near me replacements should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are approved by the Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u windows that are suited to the original building's style. This is particularly relevant when windows are in listed buildings or conservation areas.