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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is a crucial component of a historical building. It reflects in varying degrees, the technology and materials of the time in which it was made, the craftsmanship and architectural taste.

If repairs are possible to existing windows should be done in-situ. Repairing the most deteriorated areas of decay can be done using proprietary resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last for hundreds of years. They do require maintenance to ensure they look good. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. There is window doctor cambridge growing need to upgrade the timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This can include replacing old glazing units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills to improve air seal.

The corrosion of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is particularly true when windows with sash are involved since the gaps between sashes can be very wide. In these instances water may get through the paint film and cause decay of the putty and underlying wood. The rotting can be exacerbated due to weather conditions that are poor. To stop this from happening, windows should be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded must be repaired using a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric is retained. It is important to minimize the number of holes drilled into the frame in order to allow cable entry, since they can let in moisture and cause decay.

The structural movement of the wall could also cause deformations in the frame and sash. This could result in sash no longer fitting correctly or sticking or jamming into the opening, and damaged glazing. This can often be fixed by the fitting of new sash boxes that have been made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed from a sturdy hardwood, such as oak, to avoid differential movement between new and existing work.





To alleviate this issue to reduce the risk of this happening, there are a number of companies who make Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit most existing openings. These sash come in various sizes and finishes that will meet the requirements of modern homeowners. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and improved thermal insulation, these sashes can make a a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of your home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames have a great aesthetic appeal, as they reflect, in some shape, the materials technology, the construction process, and the architectural taste from the time period they were built. They may also have significant historical significance in their own right. This is especially true for early unglazed window openings in timber framed buildings where the great majority were merely a series of openings within the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into iron or wood bars to keep out intruders.

Traditional window joinery made of timber can be a stunning aspect of a building, and is crucial to keep its appearance. It is crucial that any decay caused by water penetration is stopped as soon as it is identified. This is best accomplished by a thorough painting process, especially in areas that have already suffered damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints designed to be used as part of a system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and follow the manufacturer's instructions in relation to preparation and the amount of coats required at each stage.

Wet rot is a common problem in old timber windows and the best method to stop it from becoming a problem is to take out any damaged or rotten sections as soon as you can to prevent the spread of the fungus responsible for it. Replace rotting wood with slow-growing deal (pine) and, if possible, the same type of wood that is being removed, to avoid any differential movement.

In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became cheaper and more plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more elegant with wooden tracery, moulded mullions and deep projection cills. Increasingly, the glazing was set within rebated frames and secured with 'glazing sprigs', rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaking but it also allows larger clearer, more transparent sheets of glass to be used in windows than would be possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows have a good energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay careful attention to detailing. The large glass areas, the deep projection cills and wide glazing areas reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing the windows can be improved to improve their energy efficiency. It is important to remember that these measures should be considered in relation to the overall integrity and look of the original windows.

It makes sense to repair or upgrade existing windows that are older rather than replacing them, especially when the improvements in thermal efficiency can be made through simple repairs. Older windows are usually of historical significance, since they reflect a variety of technological advancements and changes to architectural taste. Many people believe 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 they are maintained with proper maintenance.

It is essential to realize that decay issues associated with traditional timber windows can be preventable by quick and thorough repairs. In addition, it is essential to identify damp penetration problems and fix them promptly to avoid major 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 type of damage to go unnoticed until paintwork begins to crack or becomes wavier. However, it can cause structural damage and then further decay.

A good quality paint will prevent this moisture from entering. To avoid condensation and mould it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints can pose a problem because they are usually formulated to be water-resistant, and this may result in the formation of mildew in the window frame.

The majority of older windows were constructed from timber with a high proportion of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate quickly when exposed to rain, however they can be preserved with a thorough preservation treatment before use. It is also crucial to ensure that the type of wood used is suitable to the location and climate conditions, as these factors affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers have various types of sash made from timber that can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to historical buildings.

Maintenance

The life of timber windows can be extended considerably through regular inspections, careful redecoration and timely repair. The most common reason for the decay is the infiltration of moisture through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be avoided by using a quality wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.

It is important that repairs to old sash or casement windows are properly executed and done without causing any disturbance. It is possible to repair the majority of traditional wooden window designs without removing the frame. This is a must whenever it is possible. Loose or peeling paint must be removed with care and sanded lightly to increase the 'key' of the surface, allowing for an easier adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid removing old paint layers that may have historical significance.

If a portion of wood is rotting, the best solution is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts shaped to match existing profiles. The timber that is inserted should be treated with wood preservative. The junction between masonry sub-cills and timber cill should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows using PVC-u can be a tempting option, especially when the installer offers a "one-stop shop" installation service that can handle removal and replacement in a day. However, it is crucial that the person who installs windows replacement has a thorough knowledge of the structure and history of traditional wooden frames. This will allow them to make the appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements as well as other technological upgrades that won't alter the appearance of a building that is historic. Those who provide replacement windows should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacement windows are approved as a suitable solution under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can install PVC-u windows that are suited to the original building's style. This is especially true where windows are installed in listed buildings and conservation areas.