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Maintaining Timber Windows

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

When repairs are feasible to windows that are already in use should be done in situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay can be accomplished by using specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last for hundreds of years. They require regular maintenance to keep them looking good. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables and retightening sash pulleys and painting. The demand for enhancing windows made of timber to increase energy efficiency is also growing. This could include replacing old glazing units, fixing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills to increase the air seal.

A key problem with traditional windows is damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly true when windows with sash are involved since the gaps between sashes can be very large. In these situations water can get into paint film and cause rotting to the putty or wood beneath. The rotting process can be made worse due to weather conditions that are poor. To prevent this from happening, windows must be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

Areas that have been damaged must be repaired using a resin-based product. This will ensure the maximum amount of the original fabric is retained. It is also important to reduce the number of holes that are drilled into the frame to allow cable entry as these can let in water and cause decay.

The structural movement of the wall can also lead to deformations in the frame and the sash. This can result in the sash fitting incorrectly jamming, sticking or sagging in the opening, or breaking glass. This is often corrected by putting in new frames for sash made of slow-grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be constructed from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to avoid any movement between the new and existing work.

To reduce the risk to reduce the risk of this happening, there are a variety of companies that make Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit into the majority of existing openings. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes that suit the needs of modern homeowners. Combined with quadruple draught strips and a better thermal insulation, these new sash options can make an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a house.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames have a great aesthetic appeal, as they show, in some form, the materials, technology, and architectural style of the time they were constructed. They also may have a significant historic value in their in their own right. This is especially true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed structures, where the majority were series of openings in frames of structural construction, which were divided horizontally by mullions with vertical wood or iron bars in order to protect against invaders.

wooden windows cambridge repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk can be a highly decorative feature of a building and it is important to maintain its appearance. It is crucial that any decay that results from moisture penetration should be stopped as soon as it is discovered. This is best done by painting thoroughly, especially in areas that have already suffered damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints that are designed to be used as part of a system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines in relation to preparation and the amount of coats needed at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot can spread quickly in old timber windows. To prevent this, take out any damaged or rotten parts as soon as you can. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine) and, when possible, the exact kind of timber that is being removed, to avoid differential movement.

In the late period of the 17th century and the middle of the medieval period, glass became less expensive and more abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated with wooden tracery, moulded mullions and deep projection cills. In recent years, glass was fixed to frames that were rebated with glazing sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaks but also allows for much wider, clearer sheets of glass to be used in windows than would otherwise have been possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness and multilayer construction, as well as their focus on the smallest of details. They also feature large glass areas as well as deep projection cills which reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, windows can be upgraded to improve their energy efficiency. It is crucial to remember that these measures must be taken into consideration in relation to the overall integrity and look of the original windows.

Therefore, keeping existing historic windows that require repair rather than replacing them is sensible especially when their thermal improvements can be achieved economically through simple repairs and improvements. Older windows typically have historical significance that illustrates a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural style. Many people believe that these windows will need 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 crucial to recognize that the decay problems associated with traditional windows made of timber can be avoided by regular maintenance and swift repairs. In addition it is crucial to spot damp penetration issues and address them swiftly to prevent serious damage. Early deterioration of paint is a major issue, because it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. This type of damage is typically not noticed until the paintwork becomes wavy or cracked, but can cause significant structural damage, and could lead to further decay.

A paint of good quality will block moisture penetration. To prevent condensation and mould it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as it can be. The use of modern synthetic paints can be problematic since they are typically made to be water-resistant and this may lead to the formation of mildew inside the window frame.

The majority of older windows were constructed from timber with an extensive proportion of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate quickly when exposed to rain, but they can be protected with a thorough preservation treatment before use. It is also important to ensure that the kind of timber used is well-suited to the climate and site conditions, as these factors affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers produce various types of timber sash that can be adapted to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historic buildings.

Maintenance

The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended considerably through regular inspections as well as a careful redecoration and prompt repair. The primary reason for the decay is moisture intrusion through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be prevented by using a good wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

It is crucial that repairs to old sash and casement windows are done correctly and done without causing any disturbance. Many traditional timber window designs can be repaired without dismantling the frame, and this approach should be taken whenever possible. Peeling or loose paint should be removed with care and sanded lightly to improve the 'key' of the surface, allowing for an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid removing old paint layers, which may have historical value.

If a piece of timber has become rotten the best option is to eliminate the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with a wood preservative and the connection between the timber cill and sub-cill for masonry should be sealed.


It can be tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC U, particularly if the installer offers an all-in-one installation that includes removal and replacement within a single day. It is crucial that the person who installs replacement windows has a full knowledge of the structure and history of traditional wooden frames. This will enable them to make appropriate recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological advancements that won't harm the character of an historic building. Window replacements should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed to be approved in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable option. A skilled carpenter can install PVC-u windows that are suited to original building's character. This is particularly true where windows are installed in listed buildings or conservation areas.