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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is a significant element of the historic fabric of a structure. It reflects in different degree the technology and materials of the time in which it was made, the architectural style and craftsmanship.

Whenever upvc door repairs to existing windows should be made in situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to fix the worst areas of decay without removing the entire window.

Durability

Timber windows were built to last for hundreds of years. But, they have to be maintained to ensure that they look good and operating correctly. Maintenance tasks include sash cord repairs and retightening pulleys on sash, and painting. There is also a growing demand for upgrading timber windows to increase the efficiency of energy. This can involve replacing old glazing units, fixing the window rebates that are in place or putting in new cills to allow the air to seal better.

One of the major issues with traditional windows is damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important when it comes to sash windows as the gaps between sashes may be very large. In these situations, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting of the putty or wood beneath. The rotting may be further aggravated due to weather conditions that are poor. To stop this from happening, windows should be painted regularly using an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas need to be repaired with a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the maximum amount of original fabric preserved. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes that are drilled into the frame to allow cable entry since they can let in moisture and cause decay.

The structural movement of the wall can also lead to deformations in the frame and sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly and jamming or sticking to the opening and broken glazing. Often this can be corrected through the installation of new sash boxes that have been constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be made from a sturdy hardwood, like oak, to prevent differential movement between new and old work.

There are now several companies that make Boston pattern wooden sash that fit most existing openings. These sash are available in a range of sizes and finishes that meet the needs of today's homeowner. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and better thermal insulation these new sash can make significant improvements to the energy efficiency of your home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames possess a dazzling aesthetic appeal because they reflect, in some form, the materials technology, the construction process, and the architectural style of the time they were made. They may also have significant historical significance on their own. This is particularly true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, where the great majority were simply a series of openings within the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into iron or wood bars to deter invaders.

Traditional window joinery made from timber can be a stunning feature of a building and is essential to keep it looking good. It is crucial that any decay that results from the penetration of moisture should be immediately stopped once it is recognised. It is recommended to do this through thorough painting, particularly if there is damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints that are specifically designed to be used as part of the system (primer, undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding preparation and the amount of coats needed at each stage.

Wet rot is a frequent issue in older timber windows. The best method to stop it from developing is to remove any damaged or rotten sections as soon as possible to stop the spread of the fungus responsible for it. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine), and if possible, the same type of timber that is being removed, to avoid 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 buildings gradually became sophisticated, with tracery made of wood, moulded mullions and deep projecting cills. In recent years, glass was fixed into frames that were rebated with glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak and also allows more clear glass sheets to be utilized than would have been possible without the use of leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows have a good energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction, as well as careful attention to detailing. They also feature large glass areas and deep projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. The windows can be made to improve their energy efficiency through draughtproofing and secondary glazing. It is crucial to remember that these measures must be considered when it comes to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows.

Therefore, keeping existing historic windows that require repair rather than replacing them makes sense particularly when thermal improvements can be achieved economically through simple repairs and upgrades. The windows of the past often have a historical value that shows a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural taste. The pressure to replace these windows are usually based on the assumption that the windows that are old will need to be replaced in the near future, but they are capable of providing service for 150, 200 or even 250 years if properly maintained.

It is important to recognise that the decay problems caused by traditional timber windows can be prevented by thorough maintenance and prompt repairs. Additionally, it is essential to identify damp penetration problems and fix them promptly to avoid major damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early can be a problem because it allows moisture to get into the wood, which can cause wet rot. This damage is often not apparent until the paintwork becomes cracking or wavy however, it can cause serious structural damage and can lead to further decay.


A high-quality paint will stop this moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints pose a challenge since they are usually water-resistant, and can cause mildew to develop within the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were made from timber that contained an extensive proportion of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to rain, however they can be protected with an extensive preservation treatment prior to use. It is crucial to select the right type of wood for the site and climate, as these factors can affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers produce various types of timber sash that can be tailored to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be built according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom dimensions that are compatible with the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance

Regular inspections as well as careful redecoration and timely repairs can prolong the life of timber windows. The primary reason for decay is moisture intrusion through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a high-quality wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.

Repairs to sash windows that are old and window frames made of casement must be done with care and minimal disruption. A lot of traditional wooden window designs can be repaired without removing the frame, and this method should be followed whenever possible. Loose or peeling paint must be removed with care and sanded lightly to increase the "key" of the surface and facilitate an improved adhesion of the new coating. Care should be taken to avoid stripping old paint layers which could have historical value and if they are present it is recommended that a paint analysis be carried out.

When a piece of wood has begun to decay, the best option is to remove the rotted material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with wood preservative and the joint between the timber cill and sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u is an attractive option, especially when the installer provides a "one-stop shop" installation that handles both removal and replacement within one day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements as well as other technological advancements that won't affect the appearance of a historic building. The window installers who provide replacement windows must be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed as a suitable option under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to original building's character. This is particularly relevant when windows are located within listed buildings or conservation areas.