What Cambridge Window Experts Would Like You To Know

Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained timber window is a significant element of the historic fabric of a building. It demonstrates in various degrees the different materials and technologies as well as the craftsmanship and architectural style of the time period from which it originates.

If repairs are possible to existing windows should be carried out in situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to repair the most deteriorated areas without removing the whole window.

Durability

The windows made of wood in many old buildings were made to last for hundreds of years. However, they need to be maintained to ensure that they look great and working correctly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables and retightening pulleys on sash, and painting. There is also a rising demand to upgrade the timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This can include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates or installing new cills for improved air seal.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is especially important where sash windows are involved as the gaps between sashes can be quite wide. In these circumstances water can get into the paint film and cause decay of the putty and the wood underneath. The weather can be a factor in accelerating the decay. To avoid this windows from becoming rotten, they must be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded need to be repaired with the help of a resin-based repair solution. This will ensure that the maximum amount of original fabric is retained. It is also necessary to limit the number of holes that are drilled into the frame to allow cable entry as these can let in water and cause decay.

The structural movement of the wall can cause distortions in the frame as well as the sash. This can result in sash not fitting correctly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and broken glass. Often this can be corrected by fitting new sash boxes that have been constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed from a sturdy hardwood, like oak, in order to prevent any shifting between the new and older work.

To help reduce this problem There are a number of companies who make Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit the needs of the modern homeowner. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and improved thermal insulation, these new sash options can make a substantial difference 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 technologies and architectural style of the time in which they originate. They may have significant historical significance as a set. This is particularly true for windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed structures, where the majority were simply a series openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions and vertical wood or iron bars in order to protect against intruders.

It is essential to preserve the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. When you spot any signs of decay caused by water penetration, it is important to stop it. This is best accomplished by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas in which there is already damage or deterioration. It is best to use paints that are designed to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preparation and number coats at each stage.

The fungus responsible for wet rot is able to spread quickly in old windows made of wood. To stop this from happening, get rid of any rotten or damaged parts as soon as you can. The replacement of rotting timber must be done with care by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, whenever possible it is the same species as which is being removed to avoid shifting between the new section and the existing timbers.

Glass became more affordable and abundant in the late medieval period and into the 17th century. As a result, the openings for glazed windows on timber-framed houses became more complicated with moulded mullions, wooden tracery and deep cills projecting into the air. In recent times, glass was fixed into rebated frames with glazing sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak and break, but also allows more clear glass sheets to be used than would have been possible without the use of leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows offer excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very meticulous attention to detail. The large glass areas, the deep projecting cills and large glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. Windows can be designed to increase their energy efficiency by draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However it is essential to keep in mind that these measures must be considered in relation to the overall quality and appearance of the original window.

It is logical to fix or upgrade windows, rather than replacing them, especially when the improvement in energy efficiency can be made through simple repairs. Historic windows are often considered to be of historical value because they reflect a variety of technological advancement and changes in architectural style. Many people believe that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, they are still in service for 150,200, and even 250 years with proper maintenance.

It is important to recognise that the decay issues that are that are typical of timber windows can be prevented through regular maintenance and prompt repairs. Additionally it is vital to recognize damp penetration issues and address them swiftly to avoid major damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early is a concern because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, leading to wet rot. It is not uncommon for this type of damage to go unnoticed until paintwork starts to crack or turn curly. However, it could cause structural damage and then further decay.

A good paint will prevent moisture penetration. It is also important to keep the paintwork spotless in order to prevent condensation and the growth of mould. The use of modern synthetic paints can be problematic because they are usually designed to be water-resistant and this may lead to the formation of mildew inside the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed from timber with a high proportion of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate quickly when exposed to rain, however they can be protected with a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is also important to ensure that the kind of wood used is suitable to the location and climate conditions, as these elements will influence the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers make a variety of timber sash that can be customized to fit specific historic openings. They can be built according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom sizes that fit with historic buildings.

Maintenance

Regular inspections carefully redecorated, as well as prompt repairs can extend the life of timber windows. The primary reason for decay is the infiltration of moisture through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be prevented by using a high-quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

It is important that repairs to old sash and casement windows are well executed and completed with the minimum disturbance. Many of the traditional designs for timber windows are repairable without removing the frame, and this method should be taken whenever possible. Paint that is peeling or loose should be removed with care and lightly sanded to improve the 'key' of the surface, allowing for an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is crucial to not remove old paint layers, as they could have historical significance.

Where a section of timber is rotten, the best option is to eliminate the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with a wood preserver and the connection between the cill for timber and the masonry sub-cill should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u can be an attractive option, especially when the installer provides a "one-stop shop" installation service that can handle both removal and replacement within the span of a day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames.  Repair My Windows And Doors  will enable them to make appropriate recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological upgrades that won't affect the appearance 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 to be approved by the Building Regulations as a suitable option. A skilled carpenter can install PVC-u windows that conform to original building's character. This is especially applicable when windows are situated within listed buildings or conservation areas.