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Why Cambridge Window Is Everywhere This Year
Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained timber window is a significant element of the historical fabric of a building. It is a representation of the different materials and technologies as well as the craftsmanship and architectural style of the time from which it originates.

If repairs are possible to windows that are already in use should be carried out in situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to repair the most deteriorated areas without removing the entire window.

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last hundreds of years. They require regular maintenance to ensure they look good. The most frequent maintenance tasks are repairs to sash-cords, re-tightening sash pulleys, and painting. The demand for enhancing timber windows in order to increase efficiency in energy use is also growing. This may mean replacing old glazing units, repairing the window rebates that are in place, or installing new cills to allow for improved air sealing.

The corrosion of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is particularly important when it comes to sash windows because the gaps between sashes may be extremely large. In these circumstances water may get through the paint film and cause decay of the putty and the wood beneath. The rotting process can be made worse due to weather conditions that are poor. To stop this from happening, windows should be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded must be repaired using an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric remains. It is also necessary to limit the number of holes drilled into the frame for cable entry as these can let in water and cause decay.

The structural movement of the wall can cause distortions in the frame as well as the sash. This could result in sash not fitting correctly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and broken glass. This is often corrected by fitting new frames for sash made of slow-grown deal (pine), or oak. The cill should be constructed from durable hardwood such as oak to prevent movement between the old and new work.

There are several companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash to fit most existing openings. replacement windows cambridge are available in various sizes and finishes that will fit the needs of modern-day homeowners. The new sash, combined with quadruple draft strips and a more efficient thermal insulation, could make a significant difference to the efficiency of your home's energy usage.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames possess a dazzling aesthetic appeal, since they show, in some shape, the materials, technology, and architectural style of the time they were made. They also may have a significant historical significance in their own right. This is particularly true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed buildings, where the great majority were simply a series of openings within the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions and iron or wood bars to deter intruders.

Traditional window joinery made from timber is a beautiful element of a structure and is crucial to keep its appearance. When you spot any signs of decay due to the penetration of moisture it is crucial to stop it. This is best accomplished by a thorough painting process, especially in areas where there has already been damage or deterioration. It is recommended 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 of coats at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot is able to spread quickly in old windows made of timber. To stop this from happening, get rid of any damaged or rotten parts as quickly as you can. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine) and, if possible, the same type of timber as the one that is being removed to prevent the possibility of differential movement.

In the late period of the 17th century and the middle of the medieval period, glass became more affordable and abundant, so that the glazed openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated with wooden tracery, moulded mullions and deep protruding cills. In recent years, glass was fixed to frames that were rebated with glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak and break, but also allows larger sheets of glass to be utilized than would have been feasible 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. The large glass areas, deep projection cills and wide glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing windows can be upgraded to increase their energy efficiency. It is crucial to remember that these measures should be considered in relation to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.

So, retaining the existing windows from the past that require repair instead of replacing them is sensible, particularly when their thermal enhancements can be achieved cost-effectively through simple repairs and improvements. Historic windows often have historical significance that shows a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural taste. The pressures to replace such windows are typically based on the assumption that the old windows will need replacement in the near future, but the majority of them are capable of serving for 150, 200 or even 250 years if properly maintained.

It is important to recognise that the decay problems that are typical of windows made of timber can be avoided through regular maintenance and swift repairs. It is also crucial to recognize damp issues and address them promptly in order to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint can be a problem because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, leading to wet rot. This type of damage is typically not apparent until the paintwork is wavy or cracked but it can cause severe structural damage and can lead to further decay.

A quality paint will block moisture penetration. To avoid condensation and mould 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 designed to be water-resistant which can result in the formation of mildew within the window frame.


The majority of windows from the past were manufactured from timber containing a high proportion of sapwood. These timbers deteriorate quickly if exposed to rain, but they can be preserved with a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is also important to ensure that the type of wood used is suitable to the site and climate conditions, as these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer various types of timber sash which can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to historic buildings.

Maintenance

The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended considerably through regular inspections, careful redecoration and timely repair. The main cause of decay is moisture leaking through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided with thorough painting and using an excellent wood preservative.

It is crucial that repairs to the old sash and casement windows are properly executed and completed with the minimum disturbance. Many traditional timber window designs are repairable without removing the frame, and this method should be used whenever it is possible. Paint that is peeling or loose should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to increase the key of the surface and allow for an easier adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid removing old paint layers, as they may have historical significance.

When a piece of wood has begun to decay, the best course of action is to take out the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in 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 masonry sub-cill should be sealed.

Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u can be an appealing option, particularly when the installer provides a 'one stop shop' installation that handles removal and replacement within one day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the right suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technical upgrades that will not harm the historical character of a building. Anyone who installs replacement windows must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed as a suitable solution in accordance with Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can install PVC-u windows that conform to the original building's style. This is especially true when the windows are located in listed buildings and conservation areas.