Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window seal repairs made of timber is a significant element of the historic fabric of a building. It reflects, in various degree the materials and techniques of the time period it was constructed, as well as the craftsmanship and architectural taste.

When repairs are feasible to windows that are already in use should be carried out in-situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to upvc door repair cost the worst areas of decay without removing the whole window.

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last hundreds of years. But, they have to be maintained to keep them looking good and functioning properly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables as well as tightening the pulleys on sash, and painting. The demand for enhancing timber windows to improve efficiency and energy efficiency is also increasing. This can include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates, or installing new cills to improve air seal.

The corrosion of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is particularly important when windows made of sash are involved because the gaps between the sashes can be extremely large. In these instances, water can penetrate the paint film and cause decay of the putty and the wood beneath. The rotting can be exacerbated due to weather conditions that are poor. To prevent this windows from becoming rotten, they must be painted regularly using an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

The areas that are damaged should be repaired using a resin-based product. This will ensure that the maximum amount of original fabric is retained. It is also important to reduce the number of holes drilled into the frame for cable entry, as they could allow water in and cause decay.

The wall's structural movement can also lead to distortions in the frame as well as the sash. This could result in sash no longer fitting correctly and jamming or sticking to the opening and cracked glazing. This can be fixed frequently by putting in new sash frames constructed of slow-grown deal (pine), or oak. The cill should be constructed of a durable hardwood like oak to avoid differential movement between the existing and new work.

There are a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash to fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in a variety of sizes and finishes that meet the needs of the modern homeowner. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and a better thermal insulation, these new sash can make an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a house.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames possess a dazzling aesthetic appeal, as they show, in some form, the materials technology, the construction process, and the architectural aesthetics of the time they were made. They could also have a significant historic value in their individual cases. This is especially true for early windows that were not glazed in timber framed buildings which were simply a series of openings within the frame, which were divided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into iron or wood bars to deter invaders.

Traditional window joinery made of timber is a beautiful feature of a building and is crucial to keep its appearance. As soon as you notice any decay caused by the penetration of moisture it is crucial to stop it. This can be done by a thorough painting process, especially in areas in which there is already damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints that are specifically designed to be used as part of a system (primer undercoat, finish) and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding preparation and the number of coats needed at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot can spread quickly in old timber windows. To stop this from happening, get rid of any rotten or damaged parts as soon as you can. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine), and if possible, the same kind of timber that is being removed, to avoid the possibility of differential movement.

In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became more affordable and abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed buildings gradually became more sophisticated with wooden tracery moulded mullions, moulded mullions, and deep projecting cills. In the past, more often, the glass was placed within frames with rebates and secured with 'double glazing repairs sprigs', rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak, but also allows for more clear glass sheets to be employed than would be possible without the use of leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows have excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very attentive attention to detail. They also feature large glass areas and deep projecting cills that minimise air infiltration. Windows can be designed to increase their energy efficiency through draughtproofing and secondary glazing. It is essential to remember that these measures should be considered when it comes to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows.

Therefore, keeping existing historic windows that are in need of repair instead of replacing them makes sense particularly when thermal enhancements can be made cost-effectively through simple repairs and improvements. The windows of the past often have a historical value that demonstrates a range of technical development and changes in architectural tastes. The pressures to replace these windows are generally 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 important to recognize that decay issues associated in traditional timber windows are avoidable with quick and thorough repairs. It is also crucial to spot damp issues and fix them quickly so that you can avoid serious damage. Early deterioration of paint is a major issue, because it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go unnoticed until paintwork starts to crack or turn wavy. However, it can cause structural damage and further decay.

A paint of good quality will block moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. The use of modern synthetic paints could be a problem since they are typically designed to be water-resistant which can lead to the formation of mildew inside the window frame.

The majority of older windows were constructed from timber with the majority of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate quickly when exposed to rain, however they can be protected with a thorough preservation treatment before use. It is also crucial to ensure that the type of timber used is well-suited to the climate and site conditions, as these factors affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer various types of sash made from timber that can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historical buildings.

Maintenance

The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended considerably through regular inspections carefully redecoration, and timely repair. The main cause of decay is moisture leaking through deteriorated paint or putty. This can be avoided with thorough painting and using high-quality wood preservative.

It is essential that repairs to the old sash and aluminium casement windows Cambridge windows are done correctly and completed with minimal disruption. It is possible to repair several traditional designs of timber windows without removing the frame. This should be done whenever possible. Remove loose or peeling paint and lightly sand the area to improve the 'key" of the surface. This will enable the new coating to stick better. It is crucial to avoid removing old paint layers, which could have historical significance.

When a piece of wood has become rotten the best way to proceed is to eliminate the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to fit the existing profiles. The wood that is being inserted should be treated with a wood preserver and the connection between the cill for timber and the sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u may be an attractive option, especially when the installer provides a 'one stop shop' installation that takes care of both removal and replacement within one day. However, it is crucial that the person who installs windows replacement has a thorough understanding of the construction and history of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the 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 must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are deemed to be approved under Building Regulations as a suitable option. It is certainly possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-u windows that match the style of the original building. This is particularly applicable when windows are in listed buildings or conservation areas.