Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden sliding doors cambridge window is an essential component of a historical building. It reflects in varying degree the technology and materials of the time it was constructed, as well as the craftsmanship and architectural taste.

If it is possible, repairs must be made 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

Timber windows were designed to last hundreds of years. But, they have to be maintained to ensure that they look good and operating properly. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. There is also a growing demand to upgrade the timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This can include replacing old double glazing repairs near me units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills to increase the air seal.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is especially important when sash windows are concerned, as the gaps between sashes can be extremely large. In these instances water can enter the paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty underneath. The rotting can be exacerbated by poor weather conditions. To prevent this windows, they should be painted regularly with a suitable exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded need to be repaired with an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric is retained. It is also important to limit the number of holes drilled into the frame to allow cable entry since these could admit water and lead to decay.

The structural movement of the wall could also cause distortions in the frame and sash. This can result in the sash not fitting properly, sticking or jamming in the opening and cracked glazing. This is often corrected by putting in new sash frames made of slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be made from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to prevent movement between the new and existing work.

To alleviate this issue, there are now several companies that make Boston pattern wooden sash that can be fitted into most openings. They are available in various sizes and finishes to fit the needs of modern homeowners. These new sash, when coupled with quadruple draft strips and a more efficient thermal insulation, could significantly improve the efficiency of a home's energy use.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal, as they reflect, in some form, the quality of the wood technology, design, and style of the time they were made. They also may have significant historical value in their own right. This is particularly true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, in which the majority were series of openings within structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions and vertical wood or iron bars to keep out intrusions.

Traditional window joinery made from timber is a beautiful aspect of a building, and it is important to keep its appearance. It is essential that any decay that results from water penetration is immediately stopped once it is identified. 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 designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preparation and number of coats at each stage.

Wet rot is a typical issue in older timber windows. The best way to stop it becoming a problem is to take out any damaged or rotten sections as soon as possible to stop the spread of the fungus that causes it. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine), and should it be possible, the same kind of timber as the one being removed, to prevent any differential movement.

In the late period of the 17th century and the middle of the medieval period, glass became cheaper and more abundant, so that the glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became more sophisticated, with tracery made of wood as well as moulded mullions and projection cills. In the past, more often, the glass was placed within frames with rebates and secured with 'glazing sprigs', rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak, but also allows for more clear glass sheets to be employed than would be feasible without the use of lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows provide excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very meticulous attention to detail. They also feature large glass areas and projection cills which reduce air infiltration. Windows can be designed to increase their energy efficiency through draughtproofing and secondary glazing. However, it is important to keep in mind that any such measures must be considered in relation to the overall appearance and integrity of the window in its original form.

It is sensible to fix or upgrade windows that are older rather than replacing them, especially when the improvement in energy efficiency can be made through simple fixes. Older windows are usually of historical value, as they reflect a variety of technical development and changes to architectural style. Most people assume that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, most will last for 150,200, and even 250 years if you take care of maintenance.

It is important to recognise that the decay issues that are associated with traditional timber windows can be prevented by regular maintenance and prompt Upvc Repairs. In addition, it is essential to recognize damp penetration issues and fix them promptly to avoid serious damage. The early deterioration of paint could be a problem as it allows moisture to get into the wood, which can cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this issue to go unnoticed until the paintwork begins to crack or becomes curly. However, it can cause structural damage and lead to further decay.

A good quality paint will stop this moisture penetration. It is also essential to keep the paintwork clean in order to prevent condensation and the growth of mould. Modern synthetic paints pose a problem because they are often water-resistant and can cause mildew to develop in the window frame.

The majority of older windows were constructed of sapwood-rich timber. These timbers can deteriorate very quickly when exposed to wet weather, however they can be preserved with a thorough preservative treatment before they are used. It is also essential to ensure that the kind of timber used is well-suited to the site and climate conditions, as these elements will influence the durability of the joinery. Local upvc window renovation manufacturers create a variety of timber sash that can be tailored to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They are available in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to historical buildings.

Maintenance

The life span of windows made from timber can be extended through regular inspections, careful redecoration and prompt repair. The major cause of decay is moisture penetration through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by careful painting and the use of a good quality wood preservative.

Repairs to old sash windows as well as frameless casement windows should be done with care and with minimal disruption. It is possible to fix several traditional designs of timber windows without removing the frame. This should be done as often as is feasible. Remove any peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the area to improve the "key" of the surface. This will enable the new coating to adhere better. It is important to avoid stripping old paint layers which might have historical significance, and where these are present, it is recommended that a paint analysis be carried out.

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

It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, particularly if the installer offers an installation that includes both removal and replacement within a single day. It is, however, crucial that the person who installs replacement windows has a complete knowledge of the construction and history of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make appropriate suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technical upgrades that do not alter the historic character of a building. Window replacements should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved by the Building Regulations as a suitable option. It is, of course, possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-u windows that fit the character of the building originally. This is especially true when windows are situated in listed buildings and conservation areas.