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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained timber window is an important element of the historic structure of a building. It illustrates in varying degrees the different materials and technologies design, craftsmanship and aesthetics of the period from which it dates.

When possible, repairs should be made in-situ. Repairing the worst areas of decay is possible with the help of specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

The windows made of wood in many old structures were designed to last for a long time. They do require maintenance to keep them looking good. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables, retightening of sash pulleys and painting. The need to upgrade windows made of timber to increase efficiency in energy use is also growing. This may include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates, or installing new cills for improved air seal.

A key problem with traditional windows is the damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important when windows made of sash are involved because the gaps between the sashes can be extremely wide. In these situations water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty as well as the wood beneath. The rotting can be exacerbated by poor weather conditions. To stop this from happening, windows must be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas must be repaired using the help of a resin-based repair solution. This will ensure that the greatest amount of original fabric retained. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes made into the frame to allow cable entry because they could let in 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 or sticking in the opening, or breaking glass. This can often be fixed through the installation of new sash boxes that have been constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be constructed from durable hardwood such as oak to avoid differential movement between the existing and new work.

There are now several companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash to fit in with the majority of openings. They are available in a range of sizes and finishes that meet the needs of the modern homeowner. Together with quadruple draught strips and better thermal insulation these sashes can make a a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of your home.

Aesthetics

Many old wooden windows have an excellent aesthetic value because they typically demonstrate, in a way, the materials and technology and architectural taste of the time in which they date. They may also have significant historical value on their own. This is especially true of early unglazed windows in timber-framed buildings, in which the majority were simply a series openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions, and vertically by iron or wood bars to keep out intruders.

It is essential to preserve the appearance of traditional timber double glazed windows cambridge upvc window lock repair Window and emergency upvc door repairs repairs, https://marvelvsdc.faith, joinery. It is crucial that any decay resulting from the penetration of moisture should be immediately stopped once it is identified. It is best to do this with thorough painting, especially where there is damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints designed to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preparation and number of coats at each stage.

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

Glass became more affordable and abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. This led to the openings for glazed windows on timber-framed houses became more complicated with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and deep projecting cills. In recent times, glass was pinned into rebated frames with glazing sprigs instead of lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less susceptible to leaks, but it can allow for more expansive clearer, more transparent sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would have been possible without the need for lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness, multilayer construction and care for particulars. They also feature large glass areas and projecting cills that minimise air infiltration. Windows can be designed to improve their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. It is crucial to keep in mind that these measures must be taken into consideration when it comes to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.

So, retaining the existing windows from the past that are in need of repair rather than replacing them makes sense, particularly when their thermal enhancements can be made economically through simple repairs and improvements. The windows that are historic have a lot considered to be of historical value because they demonstrate a variety in technological advancements and changes to the architectural style. The pressures to replace such windows are usually based on the assumption that the windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, but most are still capable of providing service for 150, 200 or even 250 years, if properly maintained.

It is crucial to understand that decay issues associated with traditional timber windows can be preventable by prompt and thorough repairs. It is also essential to recognize damp issues and fix them quickly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint 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 unnoticed until the paintwork begins to crack or become curly. However, it can cause structural damage and then further decay.

A paint of good quality will block moisture penetration. It is also important to keep the paintwork in good condition in order to prevent condensation and the growth of mould. Modern synthetic paints can be problematic since they are typically made to be water-resistant and this may result in the formation of mildew within the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed from sapwood-rich timber. These timbers can deteriorate quickly when exposed to rain, but they can be protected with a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is important to choose the right type of wood for the site and the climate, since these factors can affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide various types of sash made from timber that can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be built to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to specific sizes that fit with the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance

The life span of windows made from timber can be extended by regular inspection, careful redecoration and prompt repair. The main reason for decay is moisture intrusion through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be avoided by thorough painting and using an excellent wood preservative.

Repairs to old sash windows and window frames made of casement should be done with care and minimal disruption. It is possible to fix several traditional designs of timber windows without removing the frame. This should be done whenever possible. Paint that is peeling or loose must be removed with care and sanded lightly to improve the key of the surface and facilitate an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is crucial to not remove old paint layers, which may have historical value.

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

It's tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, particularly when the installer offers an all-in-one installation that includes both replacement and removal in one day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements and other technical upgrades that won't harm the historical character of a building. The windows that are replaced should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are approved under Building Regulations as a suitable option. It is certainly possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-u windows that match the style of the original building. This is especially true when windows are situated in listed buildings and conservation areas.