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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained timber window is a significant element of the historic fabric of a structure. It illustrates in varying degrees the different materials and technologies design, craftsmanship and aesthetics of the time that it was built in.

If repairs are possible to existing windows are required, they should be done in-situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay is possible by using specialized resin-based systems.

cambridge doors and windows  in many historical buildings were built to last for centuries. But, they have to be maintained to ensure that they look great and working correctly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords as well as tightening the pulleys on sash, and painting. The need to upgrade windows made of timber to improve energy efficiency is also growing. This can involve replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window rebates or putting up new cills to allow for better air sealing.

One of the main issues with traditional windows is damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially important when it comes to sash windows, as the gaps between sashes may be extremely large. In these circumstances, water can penetrate the paint film and cause decay of the putty and the wood beneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the rotting. To stop this from happening windows from becoming rotten, they must be painted regularly with a suitable exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded need to be repaired with a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric is retained. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes that are created into the frame to allow cable entry, because they could let in moisture and cause decay.

The wall's structural movement can also lead to distortions in the frame as well as sash. This could result in the sash fitting incorrectly jamming, sticking or sagging in the opening, and broken glass. This can be corrected often by fitting new sash frames constructed of slow-grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be constructed of a durable hardwood like oak to avoid any movement between the existing and new work.

There are now several companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash to fit most existing openings. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes that suit the needs of modern homeowners. These sash are combined with quadruple draft strip and improved thermal insulation can make a huge difference to the efficiency of a home's energy use.

Aesthetics

Many old wooden windows have an excellent aesthetic value since they usually demonstrate, in a way the materials and techniques and architectural style of the period from when they were built. They may also have a significant historic value in their own right. This is particularly true for early unglazed windows in timber-framed buildings, in which the majority were series of openings within frames of structural construction, which were divided horizontally by mullions and vertical wood or iron bars to keep out intrusions.

It is essential to preserve the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. It is crucial that any decay resulting from moisture penetration should be immediately stopped once it is recognised. It is best to do this through thorough painting, especially where there is damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints that are designed to be used as part of the system (primer undercoat, finish) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding preparation and the amount of coats required at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot can quickly spread in old windows made of wood. To prevent this, remove any damaged or rotten components as quickly as you can. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine) and, when possible, the exact type of timber as the one that is being removed, to prevent any differential movement.

In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became cheaper and more plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became more sophisticated, with tracery made of wood, moulded mullions and deep projection cills. The glazing was increasingly laid within rebated frames and pinned in with 'glazing sprigs' rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak and also allows more clear glass sheets to be employed than would be feasible without the use of leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows provide excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay meticulous attention to detail. They also feature large glass areas and projection cills which reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, the windows can be improved to increase their energy efficiency. However it is crucial to keep in mind that any such measures must be considered in relation to the overall appearance and integrity of the window in its original form.

It is sensible to repair or upgrade existing historic windows rather than replace them, especially when the improvements in thermal efficiency can be achieved by simple repairs. The windows of the past often have a historical value that illustrates a variety of technological advancement and changes in architectural tastes. Many people believe that these windows will have to be replaced in the near future. However, many of them can still provide service for 150, 200, or even 250 years if you take care of maintenance.

It is essential to understand that the decay problems that are typical of timber windows can be prevented by regular maintenance and timely repairs. In addition, it is essential to identify damp penetration problems and fix them promptly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint can be a problem because it allows moisture to get into the wood, which can cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go unnoticed until paintwork begins to crack or become curly. However, it could cause structural damage and then further decay.

A good paint will prevent moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. The use of 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 of sapwood-rich timber. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to rain, but they can be protected with a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is crucial to select the right kind of wood for the location and climate, as these variables can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer an array of timber sash which can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to suit historic structures.

Maintenance

Regular inspection carefully redecorated, as well as quick repairs can prolong the life of wooden windows. The main cause of decay is moisture intrusion through the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be avoided with thorough painting and using an excellent wood preservative.

It is essential that repairs to the old sash and casement windows are done correctly and completed with minimal disruption. A lot of traditional wooden window designs are repairable without removing the frame, and this method should be followed whenever possible. Remove peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the surface to improve the "key" of the surface. This will allow the new coating to adhere better. It is crucial to not remove old paint layers, which may have historical significance.

When a section of wood is decayed the best option is to remove it and replace it with timber 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's tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, especially if the installer offers an 'all-in-one' installation which includes both removal and replacement within a single day. It is, however, crucial that the person who installs replacement windows has a complete understanding of the construction and history of traditional wooden frames. This will allow them to make the right suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technical improvements that won't harm the historical character of a building. Those who provide replacement windows should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved as a suitable solution under Building Regulations. It is quite possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-U windows that are sympathetic to the character of the original building. This is particularly applicable when windows are situated within conservation areas or listed buildings.