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Why All The Fuss? Cambridge Window?
Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is a significant element of the historic fabric of a structure. It illustrates in varying degrees the different materials and technologies as well as the craftsmanship and architectural style of the time period from which it originates.

When repairs are feasible to existing windows are required, they should be made in-situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to fix the most damaged areas of decay without removing the whole window.

Durability

The windows made of timber in many historical buildings were made to last for a long time. However, they need to be maintained to ensure that they look good and functioning properly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords and retightening sash pulleys and painting. The demand for enhancing windows made of timber to increase energy efficiency is also growing. This could mean replacing old glazing units, repairing the window rebates that are in place, or installing new cills for better air sealing.

One of the main issues with traditional windows is damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially important where windows made of sash are involved because the gaps between sashes can be extremely wide. In these situations, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty underneath. The weather can be a factor in accelerating the rotting. To prevent this from happening, windows should be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas need to be repaired with a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the greatest amount of the original fabric is retained. It is essential to limit the number of holes drilled in the frame to allow cable entry as these can admit moisture and cause decay.

Another issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall, which can cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can lead to sash not fitting correctly jamming, sticking or sagging in the opening, or breaking glass. This can often be fixed through the installation of new sash boxes made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be made of a durable hardwood like oak to avoid differential movement between the new and existing work.

To reduce the risk There are a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit most existing openings. The sash is available in a range of sizes and finishes to meet the requirements of the modern homeowner. Combined with quadruple draught strips and a better thermal insulation, these new sash can make a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of a house.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value because they typically illustrate, in some way the materials and technologies and architectural style of the time from when they were built. They may also have significant historical value on their own. This is particularly true of early windows that were not glazed in timber framed buildings which were simply a series of openings within the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into wood or iron bars to deter intruders.

Traditional window joinery made of timber can be a stunning element of a structure and it is important to keep it looking good. It is vital that any decay resulting from the penetration of moisture should be immediately stopped once it is identified. This is best accomplished by a thorough painting process, especially in areas that have already suffered damage or degradation. It is best to choose paints that are intended to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number of coats at each stage.

The fungus responsible for wet rot can quickly spread in old windows made of wood. To prevent this, take out any damaged or rotten parts as promptly as you are able to. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine) and, when possible, the exact type of timber as the one that is being removed, to prevent the possibility of differential movement.

In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became cheaper and more abundant, so that the glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became sophisticated, with tracery made of wood moulded mullions, 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 just less prone to leaking but it can allow for larger clearer, more transparent sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would otherwise have been possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows provide an excellent energy performance due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very meticulous attention to detail. They also have large glass areas and deep projecting cills that minimise air infiltration. Windows can be designed to increase their energy efficiency by draught-proofing and secondary glazing. It is essential to keep in mind that these measures need to be considered when it comes to the overall integrity and look of the original windows.

So, retaining existing historic windows that are in need of repair rather than replacing them is sensible particularly when thermal improvements can be achieved inexpensively with simple repairs and upgrades. Older windows are usually of historical significance, since they demonstrate a variety in technical development and changes to architectural taste. The pressures to replace such windows are typically based on the assumption that the windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, however they are capable of serving for 150, 200 or even 250 years if properly maintained.

It is crucial to understand that decay issues with traditional timber windows are easily prevented with quick and thorough repairs. It is also essential to identify damp problems and fix them quickly so that you can avoid serious damage. double glazing repairs of paint can be a problem because it allows moisture to get into the wood, causing wet rot. It is not uncommon for this issue to go unnoticed until paintwork begins to crack or becomes wavy. However, it could cause structural damage and further decay.

A good paint will block moisture penetration. To prevent condensation and mould, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. Modern synthetic paints can pose a problem since they are typically designed to be water-resistant and this may cause the growth of mildew within the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed of sapwood-rich timber. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to moist weather, however they can be preserved with a thorough preservative treatment before they are used. It is essential to select the appropriate type of wood for the location and the climate, since these factors can affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers have an array of sash made from timber that can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be made according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that fit with historic buildings.

Maintenance

Regular inspections, careful redecoration, and timely repairs can prolong the life of timber windows. The primary cause of decay is moisture intrusion through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by thorough painting and the use of high-quality wood preservative.


It is crucial that repairs to old sash or casement windows are done correctly and completed without causing any disturbance. Many of the traditional designs for timber windows can be repaired without dismantling the frame, and this approach should be used whenever it is 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 avoid removing old paint layers that may have historical value.

If a piece of wood is decayed the best way to deal with it is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts shaped to match the existing profiles. The wood that is inserted should be treated with wood preservative, and the junction between the timber cill and sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u is an appealing option, particularly when the installer provides a 'one stop shop' installation service that can handle removal and replacement in a day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make appropriate recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological improvements that don't alter the appearance of a building that is historic. The windows that are replaced must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are deemed to be approved by the Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u windows that conform to original building's character. This is especially true where the windows are located in listed buildings or conservation areas.