Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is an essential part of a historic building. It is a representation of the various materials and techniques, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the time period from which it dates.

When repairs are feasible to windows that are already in use should be carried out in situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to fix the most deteriorated areas without removing the whole window.

Durability

The windows made of wood in many old buildings were made to last for a long time. However, they do need to be maintained to ensure they look good and functioning correctly. Maintenance tasks include emergency upvc door repairs, earth500.net, to sash cords and retightening sash pulleys and painting. The need to upgrade windows made of timber to improve efficiency in energy use is also growing. This could mean replacing old glass units, repairing the window maintenance rebates that are in place or putting in new cills that allow the air to seal better.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is especially important when it comes to sash windows, as the gaps between sashes may be very large. In these circumstances water can get into the paint film and cause decay of the putty and the wood beneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the rotting. To avoid this windows, they should be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

Areas that have been damaged must be repaired with a resin-based product. This will ensure that the maximum amount of original fabric retained. It is also necessary to minimise the number of holes that are drilled into the frame for cable entry since these could allow water in and cause decay.

The structural movement of the wall can cause distortions in the frame and the sash. This could result in the sash not fitting properly and jamming or sticking to the opening, and damaged double glazing repairs cambridge. Most often, this is corrected through the installation of new sash boxes constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed from durable hardwood such as oak to avoid differential movement between the old and new work.

There are a variety of companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash to fit most existing openings. The sash is available in various sizes and finishes to fit the needs of modern-day homeowners. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and improved thermal insulation, these new sash can make an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value as they often show, in a particular way the materials and technologies and architectural taste of the time from when they were built. They may have significant historical value on their own. This is particularly true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed buildings, which were just a collection of openings in the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions and wood or iron bars to deter intrusions.

Traditional window joinery made from timber is a beautiful feature of a building and it is important to maintain its appearance. As soon as you see any decay caused by water penetration it is crucial to stop it. This is best accomplished by a thorough painting process, especially in areas that have already suffered damage or deterioration. It is best to use paints 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.

Wet rot is a frequent problem in older timber windows. The best method to stop it from growing is to eliminate any damaged or rotten parts immediately to stop the spread of the fungus that causes it. Replace rotting wood with slow-growing deal (pine) and, should it be possible, the same kind of timber as the one that is being removed, to prevent any differential movement.

In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became more affordable and abundant, so that the glazed openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated, with tracery made of wood, moulded mullions and deep projecting cills. In recent years, glass was fixed into frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less susceptible to leaks, but also allows for more expansive clearer, more transparent sheets of glass to be used in windows than would have been possible without the need for lead lights.

Energy efficiency

The traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness and multilayer construction as well as attention to the smallest of details. They also feature large glass areas and projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing the windows can be improved to improve their energy efficiency. It is crucial to remember that these measures should be taken into consideration in relation to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows.

It is sensible to repair or upgrade existing windows, rather than replacing them, especially when the improvements in thermal efficiency can be achieved by simple repairs. Historic windows are often of historical value, as they reflect a variety of technological advancements and changes to architectural style. Most people assume 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 with proper maintenance.

It is crucial to understand that decay issues with traditional timber windows can be avoidable with quick and thorough repairs. It is also essential to spot damp issues and fix them quickly so that you can avoid serious damage. Early paint deterioration could be a problem as it allows moisture to get into the wood, causing 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 lead to further decay.

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

The majority of older windows were constructed from timber with an extensive proportion of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to rain, however they can be protected by a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is essential to select the right kind of wood for the site and climate, as these variables will affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide a wide range of sash timbers that can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historical buildings.

Maintenance

The life span of windows made from timber can be extended by regular inspection carefully redecoration, and prompt repair. The primary cause of wood decay is moisture penetration through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by using a high-quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

Repairs to old sash windows and window frames made of casement should be handled with care and with the least amount of disruption. Many traditional timber window repair specialists designs can be repaired without removing the frame, and this approach should be followed whenever feasible. Loose or peeling paint should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to improve the 'key' of the surface, allowing for a better adhesion of the new coating. Care should be taken to avoid stripping old paint layers that could have historical value If these are present, it is recommended that a paint analysis be conducted.

Where a section of timber has begun to decay, the best course of action is to take out the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to fit the existing profiles. The timber inserts should be treated with a wood preservative. The junction between masonry sub-cills and timber 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 that handles removal and replacement within one day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements as well as other technological improvements that don't harm the character of a building that is historic. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like 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 especially true when the windows are located within conservation areas or listed buildings.