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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden windows cambridge Upvc Window Renovation is a crucial element of a building that is historic. It illustrates in varying degrees the different materials and technologies as well as the craftsmanship and architectural style of the time from which it dates.

If possible, repairs should be done in-situ. Repairing the worst areas of decay is possible by using specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were built to last hundreds of years. They do require some maintenance to ensure they look good. The most common maintenance tasks are repairs to sash-cords, re-tightening sash pulleys, and painting. There is also a growing demand for upgrading timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This could include replacing old glazing units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills for improved air seal.

A key problem with traditional windows is damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important when sash windows are involved as the gaps between the sashes can be extremely large. In these instances water can enter the paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty beneath. The rotting can be exacerbated by poor weather conditions. To stop this from happening, windows should be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas need to be repaired with an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure that the highest possible amount of the original fabric remains. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes drilled in the frame to allow cable access, because they could let in moisture and cause decay.

Another major issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall, which could cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can result in sash no longer fitting correctly or sticking or jamming into the opening and broken glazing. Often this can be corrected by the fitting of new sash boxes constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed of a strong hardwood such as oak, to prevent differential movement between new and older work.

There are several companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash that fit most existing openings. The sash is available in a variety of sizes and finishes to meet the needs of today's homeowner. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and better 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 because they typically illustrate, in some way the materials and techniques and architectural taste of the time in which they originate. They may also have significant historical value in their in their own right. This is especially true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed buildings, which were just a collection of openings within the frame, which were divided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into iron or wood bars to keep out intrusions.

It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. When you spot any signs of decay caused by moisture penetration it is essential to stop it. This can be done by a thorough painting process, especially in areas where there has already been damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints designed to be used as part of the system (primer, undercoat and finish) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations in relation to preparation and the amount of coats required at each stage.

Wet rot is a common problem in old timber windows. The best way to stop it becoming a problem is to take out sections that are damaged or rotten as soon as possible to stop the spread of the fungus responsible for it. The replacement of wood that is rotting should be done with care and using slow grown deal (pine) and, if possible it is the same species as which is being removed to prevent differential movement between the new section and existing timbers.

Glass became cheaper and more abundant in the late medieval period and into the 17th century. In the process, glazed openings on timber-framed houses were more elaborate, with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and deep projecting cills. In recent years, glazing was fixed into frames that were rebated with glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak, but also allows for larger sheets of glass to be used than would have been possible otherwise without the use of lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows offer an excellent energy performance due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very careful attention to detailing. They also feature large glass areas as well as deep projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, windows can be made more efficient to increase their energy efficiency. It is important to keep in mind that these measures need to be considered when it comes to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.

It is logical to repair or upgrade existing windows, rather than replacing them, especially when the improvements in energy efficiency can be made through simple fixes. Older windows typically have an historic value that demonstrates a range of technical development and changes in architectural style. Many people believe that the windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, many of them are still in service for 150,200, and even 250 years with proper maintenance.

It is crucial to understand that decay problems in traditional timber windows are easily prevented with quick and thorough repairs. It is also important to recognize damp issues and fix them quickly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint is a concern because it allows moisture to get into the wood, which can cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this issue to go unnoticed until the paintwork starts to crack or turn wavier. However, it can cause structural damage and lead to further decay.

A quality paint will prevent moisture penetration. It is also necessary to keep the paintwork clean to avoid condensation and the growth of mould. Modern synthetic paints can pose a problem because they are usually formulated to be water-resistant, and this may lead to the formation of mildew 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 rapidly if exposed to wet weather, but can be protected by a thorough treatment of preservative before they are put to use. It is important to choose the appropriate type of wood for your location and climate, as these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers have various types of timber sash which can be made to fit the historic openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to suit the architectural style of historic structures.

Maintenance

Regular inspections as well as careful redecoration and timely emergency upvc door repairs can prolong the life of wooden windows. The primary reason for decay is moisture infiltration through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by careful painting and the use of a good quality wood preservative.

It is important that repairs to old sash or casement windows are done correctly and completed with minimal disruption. Many traditional timber window designs can be repaired without removing the frame, and this option should be followed whenever feasible. Remove peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the surface to improve the "key" of the surface. This will allow the new coating to stick better. Be careful to avoid stripping paint layers that could have historical value and if they are present it is recommended that a paint analysis be conducted.

If a portion of wood has rotted the best option is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts designed to match existing profiles. The wood that is being inserted should be treated with wood preservative and the joint between the cill for timber and the sub-cill for masonry should be sealed.

It's tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, particularly when the installer provides an installation that includes removal and replacement in one day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows cambridge windows have a thorough understanding of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the right recommendations for energy efficiency improvements and other technical improvements that do not alter the character of a historic building. The window installers who provide replacement windows must be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed as a suitable option under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can install PVC-u windows that conform to the original building's style. This is particularly applicable when windows are in listed buildings or conservation areas.