Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is a significant element of the historic structure of a building. It demonstrates in various degrees the various materials and techniques design, craftsmanship and aesthetics of the time from which it originates.

When repairs are feasible to existing windows should be carried out in situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to repair the worst areas of decay without removing the whole window repair.

Durability

Timber windows were built to last for hundreds of years. They require regular maintenance to keep them looking great. The most common maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. There is a growing need to upgrade the timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This could mean replacing old glazing units, repairing the window replacement cambridge rebates that are in place or putting in new cills to allow the air to seal better.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is especially important when it comes to sash windows because the gaps between sashes may be very large. In these circumstances water may get through the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood underneath. The rotting process can be made worse due to weather conditions that are poor. To prevent this from happening, windows must be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded should be repaired with a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the maximum amount of original fabric retained. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes created in the frame to allow cable entry, because they could let in moisture and cause decay.

The wall's structural movement can cause deformations in the frame and the sash. This can lead to sash not fitting correctly and jamming or sticking into the opening, or breaking glass. This is often corrected by putting in new sash frames constructed of slow-grown deal (pine), or oak. The cill must be constructed from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to avoid differential movement between the new and existing work.

There are several companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash that fit most existing openings. These sash come in various sizes and finishes to meet the requirements of modern-day homeowners. These sash are coupled with quadruple draft strips and a better thermal insulation, can significantly improve the energy-efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

A lot of old timber frames have a great aesthetic appeal because they show, in some shape, the materials technology, design, and aesthetics of the time they were built. They may also have significant historical value as a set. This is especially true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, which were just a collection of openings within the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into iron or wood bars to deter invaders.

Traditional timber window joinery can be a highly decorative element of a structure and it is important to keep it looking good. When you spot any signs of decay caused by water penetration it is crucial to stop it. It is recommended to do this by thorough painting, particularly if there is damage or deterioration. It is best to use paints that are designed to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number of coats at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot is able to spread quickly in old timber windows. To stop this from happening, take out any rotten or damaged parts as promptly as you are able to. The replacement of wood that is rotting should be carefully undertaken using slow grown deal (pine) and, if feasible, the same species as which is being removed to prevent any movement differences between the new section and existing timbers.

Glass became less expensive and more abundant during the late medieval period and into the 17th century. This led to the glazed openings in timber-framed homes became more complicated with moulded mullions, wooden tracery and cills that protruded deep. In the past, more often, the glass was laid within rebated frames and pinned in with 'glazing sprigs' rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaking but it also allows larger, clearer sheets of glass to be used in cambridge windows than would be possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

The traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness, multilayer construction and attention to particulars. The large glass areas, deep projecting cills and large glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, the windows can be improved to improve their energy efficiency. It is crucial to remember that these measures must be considered when it comes to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.

Therefore, keeping old windows that require repair instead of replacing them is logical, particularly when their thermal enhancements can be achieved economically through simple repairs and upgrades. Older windows typically have historical significance that demonstrates a range of technological advancement and changes in architectural taste. The pressure to replace these windows are typically based on the assumption that windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, however they are capable of providing service for 150, 200 or even 250 years if they are properly maintained.

It is important to recognize that decay problems with traditional timber windows can be preventable by prompt and thorough repairs. It is also important to recognize damp issues and address them promptly in order to avoid major damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early is a concern because it allows moisture to get into the wood, leading to wet rot. It is not uncommon for this type of damage to go undetected until the paintwork starts to crack or turn wavier. However, it could cause structural damage and then further decay.

A good paint will stop moisture from entering the paint. To avoid condensation and mould, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. Modern synthetic paints pose a problem because they are often water-resistant and may cause mildew to grow in the Window maintenance frame.

Most older windows were made of sapwood-rich timber. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to moist weather, but can be preserved with a thorough preservative treatment before they are used. It is also essential to ensure that the type of wood used is suitable to the site and climate conditions, since these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers create various types of timber sash that can be customized to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to historic structures.

Maintenance

Regular inspections, careful redecoration, and timely repairs can prolong the lifespan of windows made of timber. The main reason for decay is the infiltration of moisture through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be avoided by using a high-quality wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.

Repairs to old sash windows as well as window frames made of casement should be handled with care and minimal disruption. Many of the traditional designs for timber windows are repairable without removing the frame, and this approach should be used whenever it is possible. Remove peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the area to improve the "key" of the surface. This will allow the new coating to stick better. Be careful to avoid stripping paint layers that may have historic value, and where these are present, it is recommended that a paint analysis be conducted.

Where a section of timber is rotten, the best option is to take out the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The timber inserts should be treated with wood preservative, and the joint between masonry sub-cills and timber cill should be sealed.

Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u can be an appealing option, particularly when the installer offers a "one-stop shop" installation that takes care of removal and replacement within one day. It is important that the installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological improvements that don't affect the appearance of an historic building. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are approved in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable option. It is quite possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-U windows that fit the character of the building originally. This is especially true where windows are situated in listed buildings and conservation areas.