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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained timber window supplier cambridge is an important part of the historic fabric of a structure. It reflects in different levels, the technology and materials of the time it was constructed, the design and craftsmanship.

If it is possible, repairs must be done in-situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to fix the most damaged areas of decay without having to remove the entire window.

Durability

The timber windows in many old buildings were built to last for a long time. They do require maintenance to keep them looking great. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords, retightening of pulleys for sash and painting. The demand for upgrading windows made of timber to increase efficiency and energy efficiency is also increasing. This may include replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window rebates or installing new cills to increase the air seal.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is especially important where windows made of sash are involved because the gaps between the sashes can be extremely large. In these situations water may get through 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 from happening, windows should be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

Corroded areas should be repaired using resin-based products. This will ensure that the highest possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes made into the frame to allow cable access, because they could let in moisture and cause decay.

The structural movement of the wall could also cause distortions in the frame and sash. This can lead to sash no longer fitting correctly, sticking or jamming in the opening and broken glazing. This is often corrected by putting in new sash frames constructed of slow-growing deal (pine), or oak. The cill should be constructed of a durable hardwood like oak to avoid any movement between the existing and new work.

There are a variety of companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash that fit most existing openings. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes that will fit the needs of modern homeowners. Combined with quadruple draught strips and a better thermal insulation, these new sash options can make 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 style of the period from which they date. They also may have a significant historical significance in their own right. This is especially true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, where the majority were simply a series openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions, and vertically by iron or wood bars in order to protect against intruders.

Traditional timber window joinery can be a highly decorative element of a structure and it is important to keep its appearance. When you spot any signs of decay caused by water penetration it is essential to stop it. This is best done by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas where there has already been damage or deterioration. 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 in relation to preparation and the number of coats needed at each stage.

The fungus responsible for wet rot is able to spread quickly in old windows made of timber. To prevent this, remove any rotten or damaged parts as promptly as you are able to. The replacement of rotting timber should be done with care and by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, wherever possible it is the same species as which is being removed to prevent shifting between the new section and existing timbers.

In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became more affordable and abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed buildings gradually became sophisticated with wooden tracery as well as moulded mullions and protruding cills. In recent times, glass was fixed into frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less susceptible to leaks, but also allows for much wider, clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would be possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows have excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay attentive attention to detail. The large glass surfaces, the deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas minimize air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing windows can be upgraded to increase their energy efficiency. It is crucial to keep in mind that these measures must be considered in relation to the overall integrity and look of the original windows.

So, retaining existing historic windows that are in need of repair rather than replacing them is logical, particularly when their thermal enhancements can be made economically through simple repairs and improvements. Older windows typically have an historic value that illustrates a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural taste. The pressures to replace these windows are generally based on the assumption that windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, however the majority of them are capable of providing service for 150, 200 or even 250 years if properly maintained.

It is important to recognise that the decay issues that are caused by traditional windows made of timber can be avoided through regular maintenance and prompt repairs. It is also crucial to spot damp issues and correct them swiftly to avoid major damage. Early deterioration of paint is a major issue, since it allows moisture penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. This damage is often not noticed until the paintwork is damaged or wavy however, it can cause serious structural damage and can lead to further decay.

A good quality paint will stop this moisture penetration. To avoid condensation and mould it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. Modern synthetic paints can pose a problem since they are typically made to be water-resistant and this can result in the formation of mildew in the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were manufactured from timber containing an extensive proportion 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 essential to ensure that the kind of wood used is suited to the location and climate conditions, as these factors will influence the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide an array of sash timbers that can be customized to fit historic openings. They are available in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance

The life of timber windows can be extended considerably through regular inspections, careful redecoration and prompt repair. The main cause of decay is moisture penetration through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by using a good wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

It is important that repairs to old sash or casement windows are done correctly, and carried out without causing any disturbance. Many traditional timber window designs can be repaired without removing the frame, and this approach should be taken whenever possible. Remove any peeling or loose paint and then lightly sand the surface to improve the "key" of the surface. This will allow the new coating to adhere better. Care should be taken to avoid stripping old paint layers which might have historical significance, and where these are present it is recommended that a paint analysis be conducted.

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

Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u may be a tempting option, especially when the installer provides an "all-in-one" installation service that can Upvc Door Handle Repairs Near Me removal and replacement in the span of a day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technical upgrades that will not harm the historic character of a building. The window installers who provide replacement windows must be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved as a suitable solution under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u windows that are suited to the original character of the building. This is especially true when the windows are located in listed buildings or conservation areas.