Maintaining Timber Windows
A well-maintained wooden window is an important component of a historical building. It reflects, in various degrees, the technology and materials of the time it was constructed, as well as the craftsmanship and architectural taste.
When
emergency upvc door repairs are feasible to existing windows should be carried out in situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to repair the worst areas of decay without removing the whole window.
Durability
Timber windows were designed to last for hundreds of years. But, they have to be maintained to ensure they look good and functioning properly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables and retightening pulleys for sash and painting. There is also a growing demand for upgrading timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This may mean replacing old glass units, fixing existing window rebates or putting up new cills to allow the air to seal better.
The corrosion of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is especially true in the case of sash windows, as the gaps between sashes may be quite large. In these circumstances water may get through the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood underneath. 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.
Areas that have been damaged must be repaired with resin-based products. This will ensure that the maximum amount of original fabric preserved. It is also essential to minimise the number of holes drilled into the frame to allow cable entry, as they could let in water and cause decay.
The wall's structural movement could also cause deformations in the frame and sash. This can result in the sash not fitting properly and jamming or sticking into the opening, or breaking glass. This can be fixed frequently by fitting new sash frames made of slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be made from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to avoid any movement between the new and existing work.
There are now several companies that make Boston pattern
wooden sliding doors cambridge sash to fit in with the majority of openings. The sash is available in a variety of sizes and finishes that suit the needs of modern-day homeowners. Combined with quadruple draught strips and improved thermal insulation, these sashes can make a significant improvements to the energy efficiency of a home.
Aesthetics
Many old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal, as they reflect, in some shape, the materials technology, the construction process, and the architectural aesthetics of the time they were built. They could also have a significant historic value in their in their own right. This is particularly true for early unglazed windows in timber-framed buildings, in which the majority of them were series openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions with vertical iron or wood bars in order to protect against intrusions.
Traditional window joinery made from timber is a beautiful feature of a building and is crucial to keep it looking good. When you spot any signs of decay due to water penetration, it is important to stop it. It is recommended to do this by thorough painting, especially if there has been damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints specifically designed to be used part of a system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding preparation and the amount of coats required at each stage.
Wet rot is a typical problem for old timber windows and the best way to stop it growing is to eliminate any damaged or rotten sections as soon as you can to prevent the spread of the fungus that causes it. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine), and should it be possible, the same type of timber that is being removed, to avoid the possibility of differential movement.
glass repair cambridge became cheaper and more abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. As a result, the glazed openings in timber-framed homes were more elaborate, with moulded mullions, tracery made of wood and cills that protruded deep. The glazing was increasingly set within rebated frames and then pinned with 'glazing sprigs', rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak and also allows larger sheets of glass to be employed than would be possible without the use of leaded lights.
Energy efficiency
Traditional timber windows offer excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay careful attention to detailing. They also have large glass areas as well as deep projecting cills that minimise air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, windows can be upgraded to improve their energy efficiency. It is important to remember that these measures must be considered when it comes to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.
It is sensible to fix or upgrade windows that are older rather than replacing them, especially when the improvements in thermal efficiency can be made through simple fixes. Older windows are usually of historical significance, since they reflect a variety of technological advancements and changes to architectural style. The pressures to replace such windows are generally based on the assumption that old windows will need replacement in the near future, but they are in a position to last for 150, 200 and even 250 years if properly maintained.
It is crucial to recognize that the decay issues that are caused by traditional timber windows can be avoided through regular maintenance and timely repairs. Additionally it is crucial to identify damp penetration problems and address them swiftly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint can be a problem because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, causing wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go unnoticed until the paintwork begins to crack or becomes wavier. However, it can cause structural damage and then further decay.
A high-quality paint will prevent this moisture from entering. To avoid condensation and mould, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. The use of modern synthetic paints can be problematic because they are usually made to be water-resistant and this may lead to the formation of mildew inside the
window maintenance frame.
The majority of older windows were constructed of sapwood-rich timber. These timbers can deteriorate very quickly when exposed to moist weather conditions, but they can be protected with an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are put to use. It is also essential to ensure that the kind of wood used is suited to the site and climate conditions, as these elements can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers have a wide range of timber sash which can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to historical buildings.
Maintenance
The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended significantly by regular inspection as well as a careful redecoration and prompt repair. The main reason for decay is moisture intrusion through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be avoided with thorough painting and the use of a good quality wood preservative.
Repairs to sash windows that are old and window frames made of casement should be handled with care and minimal disruption. It is possible to fix many traditional timber window designs without taking the frame off. This is a must whenever it is possible. Remove peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the area to improve the "key" of the surface. This will enable the new coating to stick better. Be careful to avoid stripping paint layers that could have historical value, and where these are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted.
If a portion of wood has rotted the best way to deal with it is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts that are shaped to match existing profiles. The timber inserts should be treated using wood preservative. The junction between the masonry sub-cill and the timber cill should be sealed.
Replacement of traditional windows using PVC-u may be a tempting option, especially when the installer offers a 'one stop shop' installation that takes care of both removal and replacement within one day. It is crucial 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 improvements that will not harm the historic character of a building. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that the replacement windows are approved as a suitable option under Building Regulations. It is certainly possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-U windows that match the the building originally. This is especially applicable when windows are situated within listed buildings or conservation areas.
