Maintaining Timber Windows

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

If it is possible, repairs must be made on-site. Repairing the most severe areas of decay is possible using proprietary resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last for centuries. However, they need to be maintained to ensure that they look good and functioning correctly. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords, re-tightening sash pulleys, and painting. The need to upgrade timber windows to improve efficiency in energy use is also growing. This may mean replacing old glass units, repairing existing window doctor near me rebates or putting up new cills to allow for improved air sealing.

One of the major issues with traditional windows is the damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important when windows with sash are involved since the gaps between the sashes can be quite large. In these situations water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood beneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the decay. To prevent this from happening, windows need to 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 greatest amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is essential to limit the number of holes drilled into the frame in order to allow cable access, because they could let in moisture and cause decay.

Another issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall which can cause deformation of the frame and the sash. This can result in sash not fitting correctly jamming, sticking or sagging in the opening, or breaking glass. Often this can be corrected by fitting new sash boxes made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill needs to be constructed of a durable hardwood, such as oak, to prevent the movement of new and existing work.

To help reduce this problem There are a number of companies who make Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit into the majority of existing openings. These sash come in various sizes and finishes that will meet the requirements of modern-day homeowners. These new sash, when combined with quadruple draft strip and a better thermal insulation, can make a huge difference to the energy-efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames have a great aesthetic appeal, since they display, in a certain form, the quality of the wood, technology, and architectural taste from the time period they were made. They may have significant historical value on their own. This is especially true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber double glazed windows Cambridge framed buildings which were just a collection of openings within the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions and wood or iron bars to deter intrusions.

It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. As soon as you see any signs of decay caused by moisture penetration it is crucial to stop it. It is recommended to do this through thorough painting, especially if there has been damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints that are 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 problem in older timber windows. The best way to stop it developing is to remove any damaged or rotten sections as soon as you can to prevent the spread of the fungus that causes it. The replacement of rotting timber should be carefully undertaken with a slow-growing deal (pine) and, whenever possible it is the same species as that which is being removed to avoid any movement differences between the new section and existing timbers.

In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became less expensive and more abundant, so that the glazed openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated with wooden tracery as well as moulded mullions and protruding cills. The glazing was increasingly placed within frames with rebates and pinned in by 'glazing sprigs' rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak and also allows wider sheets of clearer glass to be employed than would be possible otherwise without the use of leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

The traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness, multilayer construction and care for detail. They also have large glass areas as well as deep projecting cills that minimise air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing the windows can be improved to improve their energy efficiency. It is essential to remember that these measures must be taken into consideration when it comes to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.

It makes sense to fix or upgrade windows, rather than replacing them, particularly when improvements in thermal efficiency can be made by simple repairs. The windows of the past often have an historic value that demonstrates a range of technological advancement and changes in architectural style. Most people assume that these windows will have to be replaced in the near future. However, most can still provide service for 150,200, and even 250 years if they are maintained with proper maintenance.

It is crucial to understand that decay issues with traditional timber windows can be preventable by quick and thorough repairs. In addition it is vital to identify damp penetration problems and fix them promptly to avoid major damage. Early paint deterioration is a major issue, since it allows moisture penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. The damage is usually not noticed until the paintwork becomes damaged or wavy, but can cause significant structural damage and lead to further decay.

A quality paint will stop moisture from entering the paint. To avoid condensation and mould, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints pose a challenge because they are often water-resistant and may cause mildew to develop within the window frame.

Most older windows were made from sapwood-rich timber. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration rapidly if exposed to wet weather, but can be preserved with a thorough treatment of preservative before they are used. It is also important to ensure that the type of timber used is well-suited to the site and climate conditions, as these elements can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers create various types of timber sash that can be tailored to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit the architectural style of historic structures.

Maintenance

Regular inspection, careful redecoration, and prompt repairs can extend the lifespan of windows made of timber. The primary reason for the decay is moisture infiltration through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be prevented by thorough painting and the use of an excellent wood preservative.

It is crucial that repairs to the old sash and casement windows are properly executed and done without causing any disturbance. Many traditional timber window designs are repairable without removing the frame, and this option should be used whenever it is possible. Remove any peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the area to improve the 'key" of the surface. This will allow the new coating to adhere better. It is important to avoid removing old paint layers, as they may have historical value.

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

It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, particularly when the installer offers an all-in-one installation that includes both removal and replacement within a single day. However, it is crucial that the person who installs replacement windows has a full knowledge of the construction and history of traditional wooden frames. This will enable them to make the right suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological improvements that don't affect the appearance of a historic building. Those who provide replacement windows should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme like as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are deemed acceptable under Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. It is certainly possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-U windows that are sympathetic to the character of the original building. This is particularly relevant when windows are located within listed buildings or conservation areas.