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What Cambridge Window Experts Want You To Learn
Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is an important element of a building that is historic. It reflects in different levels, the materials and techniques of the time in which it was made, the architectural style and craftsmanship.

When repairs are feasible to existing windows should be made in situ. Repairing the most deteriorated areas of decay is possible by using specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last hundreds of years. They do require some maintenance to ensure they look good. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords, re-tightening sash pulleys, and painting. The demand for enhancing timber windows to increase efficiency and energy efficiency is also increasing. This could include replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window rebates or installing new cills to improve air seal.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is especially true in the case of sash windows, as the gaps between sashes may be extremely large. In these cases water can enter the paint film and cause rotting to the wood or putty underneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the rotting. To stop this from happening, windows must be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas need to be repaired with an adhesive-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 that are drilled in the frame to allow cable access, as these can admit moisture and cause decay.

Another significant problem with older windows is the structural movement within the wall that can lead to deformation of the frame and the sash. This can result in the sash not fitting properly or sticking or jamming into the opening, and damaged glazing. Most often, this is corrected by the fitting of new sash boxes that have been made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be made from durable hardwood such as oak to prevent movement between the existing and new work.

There are several companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash to fit in with the majority of openings. The sash is available in a range of sizes and finishes that meet the needs of the modern homeowner. The new sash, combined with quadruple draft strips and a better thermal insulation, can make a huge difference to the efficiency of a home's energy use.

Aesthetics


A lot of old timber frames possess a dazzling aesthetic appeal, as they display, in a certain form, the materials, technology, and architectural style of the time they were built. They could have significant historical value as a set. This is particularly true of early unglazed window openings in timber framed buildings where the great majority were just a collection of openings within the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions and vertical wood or iron bars to deter invaders.

Traditional window joinery made from timber can be a highly decorative element of a structure and is essential to keep its appearance. As soon as you notice any signs of decay due to the penetration of moisture it is essential to stop it. It is recommended to do this with thorough painting, especially if there is damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints specifically designed to be used as part of the system (primer undercoat, finish) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations in terms of preparation and the number of coats required at each stage.

The fungus responsible for wet rot can spread quickly in old windows made of timber. To stop this from happening, remove any damaged or rotten parts as soon as you can. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine), and should it be possible, the same type of timber as the one that is being removed, to prevent differential movement.

Glass became more affordable and abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. As replacement windows cambridge Repair My Windows And Doors , the openings for glazed windows on timber-framed houses became more complicated with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and cills that protruded deep. In recent years, glass was fixed into frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaking but it can allow for much wider and clearer sheets of glass to be used in windows than would be possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows provide excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay attentive attention to detail. The large glass surfaces, the deep projection cills and wide glazing areas reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, the windows can be improved to increase their energy efficiency. It is important to keep in mind that these measures must be considered in relation to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows.

It is logical to fix or upgrade windows, rather than replacing them, especially when the improvements in energy efficiency can be made by simple repairs. Older windows typically have an historic value that illustrates a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural style. Most people assume that the 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 important to recognise that the decay issues that are caused by traditional windows made of timber can be avoided by regular maintenance and swift repairs. It is also essential to identify damp problems and fix them quickly in order to avoid major damage. Early paint deterioration is a major problem as it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go unnoticed until paintwork begins to crack or become wavier. However, it can cause structural damage and further decay.

A high-quality paint will stop this moisture penetration. It is also necessary to keep the paintwork clean to avoid condensation and mould growth. Modern synthetic paints are problematic since they are usually water-resistant, and can cause mildew to grow in the window frame.

The majority of older windows were manufactured from timber containing the majority of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate quickly when exposed to rain, however they can be protected by an extensive preservation treatment prior to use. It is also essential to ensure that the type of wood used is suited to the location and climate conditions, since these factors affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer an array of timber sash which can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historic structures.

Maintenance

Regular inspections as well as careful redecoration and prompt repairs can extend the life of wooden windows. The most common reason for decay is the infiltration of moisture through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a high-quality wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.

It is essential that repairs to the old sash and casement windows are properly executed and completed with the minimum disturbance. It is possible to repair many traditional timber window designs without having to remove the frame. This should be done as often as is feasible. Loose or peeling paint should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to increase the 'key' of the surface and facilitate an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is crucial to avoid removing old paint layers, as they may have historical significance.

When a section of wood is decayed the best way to deal with it is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts designed to match the existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with wood preservative, and the junction between the timber cill and sub-cill for masonry should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u is a tempting option, especially when the installer offers a 'one stop shop' installation that takes care of both removal and replacement within a day. It is important that the installers of replacement windows have a thorough understanding of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the right recommendations for energy efficiency improvements as well as other technological upgrades that won't alter the appearance of a historic building. The windows that are replaced should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are deemed acceptable in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. It is quite possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-U windows that match the character of the building originally. This is particularly applicable when windows are situated within listed buildings or conservation areas.