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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is a crucial part of the historic fabric of a structure. It illustrates in varying degrees the materials and technologies, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the time from which it dates.

If repairs are possible to windows that are already in use should be done in situ. The repair system that is based on resin can be used to repair the worst areas of decay without having to remove the entire window.

Durability

The windows made of timber in many historical buildings were built to last for hundreds of years. They do require maintenance to ensure they look good. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords, retightening of pulleys on sash, and painting. The need to upgrade timber windows to increase efficiency and energy efficiency is also increasing. This could mean replacing old glass units, fixing existing window repair near me rebates or putting in new cills the air to seal better.

The corrosion of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is particularly important when sash windows are involved as the gaps between sashes can be extremely wide. In these instances water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty as well as underlying wood. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the rotting. To stop this from happening windows from becoming rotten, they must be regularly painted with a suitable 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 retained. It is important to minimize the number of holes drilled in the frame to allow cable entry, because they could let in moisture and cause decay.

Another issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall, which can lead to deformation of the frame and sash. This can result in sash no longer fitting correctly or sticking or jamming into the opening, and damaged glazing. Often this can be corrected through the installation of new sash boxes that have been made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed of a durable hardwood, such as oak, to prevent shifting between the new and old work.

There are a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern wooden windows and doors cambridge sash that fit in with the majority of openings. The sash is available in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit the requirements of the modern homeowner. The new sash, combined with quadruple draft strip and a more efficient thermal insulation, could make a huge difference to the energy-efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal, as they reflect, in some shape, the materials technology, the construction process, and the architectural aesthetics of the time they were made. They may also have significant historical value in their own right. This is particularly true of early unglazed cambridge windows and doors in timber-framed buildings, where the majority were series of openings within frames of structural construction, which were divided horizontally by mullions with vertical iron or wood bars in order to protect against intruders.

It is crucial to maintain the appearance of traditional wooden window repair near me joinery. As soon as you notice any decay caused by moisture penetration it is essential to stop it. It is best to do this through thorough painting, especially where there has been damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints that are designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preparation and number coats at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot is able to spread quickly in old timber windows. To stop this from happening, get rid of any rotten or damaged parts as soon as you can. Replace rotting wood with slow-growing deal (pine), and when possible, the exact kind of timber that is being removed to prevent any differential movement.

In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became less expensive and more abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated, with tracery made of wood as well as moulded mullions and protruding cills. In the past, more often, the glass was placed within frames with rebates and secured with 'glazing sprigs', rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak, but also allows for more clear glass sheets to be used than would have been possible without the use of lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness, multilayer construction and care for detail. The large glass areas, deep projecting cills and large glazing areas reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, the windows can be improved to increase their energy efficiency. However it is essential to keep in mind that these measures should be evaluated in relation to the overall quality and appearance of the original window.

It is logical to repair or upgrade existing historic windows rather than replace them, particularly when improvements in thermal efficiency can be made through simple fixes. The windows of the past often have a historical value that demonstrates a range of technical development and changes in architectural taste. Most people think that the windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, most are still in service for 150, 200 or even 250 years if they are maintained with proper maintenance.

It is important to recognize that decay issues associated with traditional Timber Double Glazed Windows Cambridge windows are easily prevented with prompt and thorough repairs. Additionally it is crucial to identify damp penetration problems and to remedy them quickly to avoid serious damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early could be a problem as it allows moisture to get into the wood, causing wet rot. This damage is often not apparent until the paintwork is cracking or wavy however, it can cause serious structural damage and can lead to further decay.

A quality paint will block moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints can be problematic, as they are often made to be water-resistant and this can result in the formation of mildew in the window frame.

Most older windows were made of sapwood-rich timber. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to rain, but they can be protected with an extensive preservation treatment prior to use. It is also essential to ensure that the kind of timber used is well-suited to the climate and site conditions, as these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers make a range of sash made of timber that can be customized to fit specific historic openings. They are available in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to historical buildings.

Maintenance

Regular inspections, careful redecoration, and prompt repairs can extend the life of timber windows. The main cause of decay is moisture intrusion through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be avoided by using a quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

Repairs to sash windows that are old and frameless casement windows should be done with care and minimal disruption. It is possible to fix several traditional designs of timber windows without taking the frame off. This should be done whenever possible. Loose or peeling paint must be removed with care and lightly sanded to improve the key of the surface, allowing for an easier adhesion of the new coating. Care should be taken to avoid stripping old paint layers that may have historic value If these are present it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted.

If a piece of wood is rotting, the best solution is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The timber that is inserted should be treated with wood preservative. The junction between masonry sub-cills and timber cill should be sealed.

Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u can be an attractive option, especially when the installer offers an "all-in-one" installation that handles removal and replacement in one day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make appropriate recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological improvements that don't affect the appearance of a historic building. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that replacement windows are approved by the Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. It is quite possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-u windows that match the style of the building originally. This is especially true where windows are installed in listed buildings and conservation areas.