Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained and maintained timber window is a crucial element of the historical structure of a building. It illustrates in varying degrees the materials and technologies design, craftsmanship and aesthetics of the time from which it originates.

If it is possible, double glazed door repairs must be done in-situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay can be accomplished using proprietary resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were made to last for centuries. However, they need to be maintained to ensure that they look great and working properly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords as well as tightening the pulleys on sash, and painting. The demand for enhancing timber windows to improve energy efficiency is also growing. This could mean replacing old glazing units, fixing the window rebates that are in place or putting in new cills to allow the air to seal better.

The corrosion of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is particularly important when sash windows are concerned, as the gaps between sashes can often be quite large. In these instances water can enter the paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty underneath. The rotting can be exacerbated by weather conditions that are not ideal. To avoid this, windows should be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded must be repaired using a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric remains. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes that are created into the frame to allow cable entry, since they can let in moisture and cause decay.

The structural movement of the wall can also lead to deformations in the frame and sash. This can result in sash no longer fitting correctly or sticking or jamming into the opening, and damaged double glazing repairs cambridge. This can be corrected often by putting in new sash frames made of slow-grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed from a sturdy hardwood, such as oak, to prevent shifting between the new and existing work.

To reduce the risk to reduce the risk of this happening, there are several companies that manufacture Boston pattern sash made of wood 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 modern-day homeowners. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and a 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 high aesthetic value because they typically demonstrate, in a way, the materials and technology and architectural style of the time from which they date. They could have significant historical value in their own right. This is especially true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber framed buildings where the great majority were simply a series of openings within the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions and vertical wood or iron bars to deter invaders.

It is crucial to maintain the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. It is essential that any decay caused by water penetration is removed as soon as it is identified. This is best done by a thorough painting process, especially in areas where there has already been damage or deterioration. It is best to use paints designed to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preparation and number coats at each stage.

The fungus responsible for wet rot can quickly spread in old windows made of timber. To stop this from happening, remove any rotten or damaged parts as promptly as you are able to. The replacement of rotting timber should be done with care and using slow grown deal (pine) and, wherever possible it is the same species as that which is being removed in order to prevent differential movement between the new section and existing timbers.

Glass became more affordable and abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. In the process, the openings for double glazed door repairs windows on timber-framed houses became more complicated with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and deep cills projecting into the air. In the past, more often, the glass was laid within rebated frames and pinned in by '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 employed than would be feasible without the use of lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness and multilayer construction as well as care for the smallest of details. The large glass areas, deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, windows can be upgraded to improve their energy efficiency. It is crucial to remember that these measures should be taken into consideration when it comes to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.

It is logical to repair or upgrade existing windows that are older rather than replacing them, especially when the improvements in thermal efficiency can be achieved through simple repairs. Older windows typically have historical significance that demonstrates a range of technological advancement and changes in architectural tastes. The pressure to replace these windows are typically based on the assumption that the windows that are old will need to be replaced in the near future, however most are still capable of serving for 150, 200 and even 250 years if properly maintained.

It is important to recognise that the decay issues associated with traditional windows made of timber can be avoided by thorough maintenance and swift repairs. Additionally, it is essential to spot damp penetration issues and Fix Double pane Window them promptly to avoid major damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early could be a problem as it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, which can cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go undetected until the paintwork begins to crack or becomes wavier. However, it could cause structural damage and then further decay.

A high-quality paint will stop this moisture from entering. It is also necessary to keep the paintwork clean to avoid condensation and mould growth. Modern synthetic paints are problematic because they are water-resistant and may cause mildew to develop in the window frame.

The majority of older windows were constructed from sapwood-rich timber. These timbers deteriorate quickly if exposed to rain, but they can be protected by a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is important to choose the right kind of wood for the site and the climate, since these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window installation cambridge manufacturers create various types of timber sash that can be adapted to fit specific historic openings. They can be built to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that are in keeping with the historic architecture.

Maintenance

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

It is essential that repairs to old sash or casement windows are well executed, and carried out with the minimum disturbance. Repairs can be made to the majority of traditional wooden window designs without removing the frame. This should be done whenever possible. Peeling or loose paint must be removed with care and lightly sanded to improve the 'key' of the surface, allowing for a better adhesion of the new coating. It is crucial to not remove old paint layers, which could have historical significance.

Where a section of timber double glazed windows cambridge is rotten, the best way to proceed is to remove the rotted material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The timber inserts should be treated using wood preservative, and the joint between masonry sub-cill and timber cill should be sealed.

It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, especially if the installer offers an 'all-in-one' installation which includes both removal and replacement in one day. It is, however, vital that the installer of windows replacement has a thorough understanding of the construction and history of traditional wooden frames. This will allow them to make the right suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological upgrades that do not alter the character of a historic building. The windows that are replaced should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure that replacement windows are deemed acceptable under Building Regulations as a suitable option. A skilled carpenter can install PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to original building's character. This is particularly true where windows are installed in listed buildings and conservation areas.