Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained timber window lock repairs is an important element of the historical fabric of a structure. It illustrates in varying degrees the different materials and upvc Locksmith Cambridge technologies as well as the craftsmanship and architectural style of the time from which it originates.

If repairs are possible to existing windows are required, they should be carried out in-situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to fix the most deteriorated areas without removing the whole window.

Durability

The timber windows in many historical structures were designed to last for centuries. However, they do need to be maintained to ensure that they look great and working correctly. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks are repairs to sash-cords as well as tightening sash pulleys and painting. The need to upgrade windows made of timber to improve efficiency and energy efficiency is also increasing. This may mean replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window doctor cambridge rebates or putting up new cills the air to seal better.

One of the main issues with traditional windows is the damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially true when it comes to sash windows because the gaps between sashes can often be extremely large. In these instances, water can penetrate the paint film and cause rotting of the putty as well as underlying wood. The rotting may be further aggravated by poor weather conditions. To avoid this windows from becoming rotten, they must be painted regularly using an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

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

Another issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall that could cause deformation of the frame and the sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly or sticking or jamming into the opening and broken glazing. This can often be fixed by the fitting of new sash boxes constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be made of a strong hardwood such as oak, in order to prevent any differential movement between new and older work.

To alleviate this issue, there are now a number of companies who manufacture Boston pattern sash made of wood that can be fitted into most openings. The sash is available in a range of sizes and finishes to suit the needs of today's homeowner. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and better thermal insulation these new sash can make a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of a house.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal because they reflect, in some shape, the materials technology, design, and style of the time they were constructed. They could have significant historical significance in their own right. This is particularly true for early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed structures, where the majority were series openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions with vertical wood or iron bars to protect against intrusions.

Traditional window joinery made of timber can be a stunning feature of a building and is crucial to keep its appearance. It is crucial that any decay resulting from water penetration is immediately stopped once it is identified. It is recommended to do this with thorough painting, especially if there has been damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints that are specifically designed to be used part of a system (primer undercoat, finish) and wooden Windows cambridge follow the manufacturer's guidelines in relation to preparation and the number of coats required at each stage.

The fungus responsible for wet rot is able to spread quickly in old timber windows. To prevent this, remove any damaged or rotten parts as soon as you can. The replacement of wood that is rotting must be done with care with a slow-growing deal (pine) and, if possible, the same species as that which is being removed to prevent differential movement between the new and old timbers.

In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became less expensive and more abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed buildings gradually became more elegant with wooden tracery moulded mullions, moulded mullions, and deep protruding cills. In recent years, glazing was pinned into frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs instead of lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak and also allows wider sheets of clearer glass to be employed than would be possible otherwise without the use of leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows offer excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay meticulous attention to detail. They also have large glass areas and deep projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. The windows can be made to increase their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. It is essential to keep in mind that these measures must be considered when it comes to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows.

Therefore, keeping existing historic windows that are in need of repair instead of replacing them makes sense particularly when thermal improvements can be achieved inexpensively with simple repairs and upgrades. The windows of the past often have a historical value that illustrates a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural tastes. Most people assume that these windows will have to be replaced in the near future. However, they are still in service for 150, 200, or even 250 years if you take care of maintenance.

It is important to recognize that decay issues in traditional timber windows are preventable by prompt and thorough repairs. It is also crucial to recognize damp issues and address them promptly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint can be a problem because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, which can cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go unnoticed until paintwork begins to crack or becomes wavier. However, it could cause structural damage and further decay.

A high-quality paint will prevent this moisture from entering. It is also important to keep the paintwork clean in order to prevent condensation and the growth of mould. Modern synthetic paints can pose a problem, as they are often designed to be water-resistant and this may lead to the formation of mildew within the window frame.

Most older windows were made from sapwood-rich timber. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to rain, but they can be protected by a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is also crucial to ensure that the kind of wood used is suited to the location and climate conditions, as these elements affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide various types of timber sash which can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be constructed to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom dimensions that are compatible with the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance

Regular inspection, careful redecoration, and quick repairs can prolong the life of wooden windows. The primary reason for decay is moisture infiltration through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be prevented by using a good wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

Repairs to sash windows that are old and casement window frames should be handled with care and with the least amount of disruption. It is possible to fix several traditional designs of timber windows without removing the frame. This should be done as often as is feasible. Loose or peeling paint should be removed with care and lightly sanded to improve the "key" of the surface, allowing for a better adhesion of the new coating. Care should be taken to avoid stripping paint layers that might have historical significance, and where these are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted.

When a section of wood is decayed the best option is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts that are shaped to match existing profiles. The wood that is being inserted should be treated with a wood preserver and the joint between the timber cill and the sub-cill for masonry should be sealed.

It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC U, particularly when the installer offers an installation that includes removal and replacement within a single day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows have a thorough understanding of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technical upgrades that won't harm the historical character of a building. Anyone who installs replacement windows must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme like as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed as a suitable solution under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to original building's character. This is particularly applicable when windows are in conservation areas or listed buildings.