Maintaining Timber Windows
A well-maintained wooden window is a crucial part of a historic building. It reflects in varying degrees, the materials and techniques of the time it was constructed, the design and craftsmanship.
Whenever possible repairs to windows that are already in use should be carried out in situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay is possible using proprietary resin-based systems.
Durability
Timber windows were built to last for hundreds of years. They require regular maintenance to keep them looking great. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords as well as tightening the pulleys for sash and painting. The need to upgrade timber windows in order to increase efficiency and energy efficiency is also increasing. This could include replacing old glazing units, fixing existing
window maintenance rebates, or installing new cills for improved air
door seal repair near me.
The corrosion of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is especially important where windows made of sash are involved because the gaps between the sashes can be very 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 process can be made worse by poor weather conditions. To avoid this, windows should be regularly painted with a suitable exterior wood paint.
In addition to repainting, corroded areas must be repaired using a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric remains. It is also important to minimise the number of holes you drill into the frame to allow cable entry, as they could admit water and lead to decay.
The structural movement of the wall could also cause distortions in the frame as well as the sash. This can lead to sash not fitting correctly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and even broken glass. This is often corrected by putting in new sash frames constructed of slow-growing deal (pine), or oak. The cill must be made from a sturdy hardwood, such as oak, to prevent differential movement between new and old work.
There are several companies that make Boston pattern wooden sash to fit into the majority of existing openings. They are available in a range of sizes and finishes to suit the needs of today's homeowner. These sash are combined with quadruple draft strips and a better thermal insulation, can significantly improve the energy-efficiency of a home.
Aesthetics
Many old timber frames have a great aesthetic appeal, as they show, in some shape, the materials, technology, and architectural style of the time they were built. They may also have significant historical value in their individual cases. This is especially true of early unglazed window openings in timber-framed buildings, which were just a collection of openings in the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions and iron or wood bars to keep out intrusions.
It is crucial to maintain the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. When you spot any signs of decay due to moisture penetration it is essential to stop it. It is recommended to do this with thorough painting, particularly if there is damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints specifically designed to be used as part of a system (primer undercoat, finish) and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding preparation and the amount of coats required at each stage.
Wet rot is a common problem for older timber windows. The best way to stop it growing is to eliminate any damaged or rotten sections as soon as you can to stop the spread of the fungus responsible for it. Replace rotting wood with slow-growing deal (pine), and if possible, the same type of wood as the one being removed, to avoid the possibility of differential movement.
Glass became less expensive and more abundant during the late medieval period and into the 17th century. As a result, the glazed openings in timber-framed homes became more complicated with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and cills that protruded deep. Increasingly, the glazing was placed within frames with rebates and secured by '
double glazing repairs cambridge sprigs' rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing is not only 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 lead lights.
Energy efficiency
Traditional timber windows provide a good energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction, as well as meticulous attention to detail. They also feature large glass areas and deep projection cills which reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing windows can be upgraded to improve their energy efficiency. However it is crucial to keep in mind that any such measures should be viewed in relation to the overall integrity and appearance of the window in its original form.
It makes sense to repair or upgrade existing windows that are older rather than replacing them, especially when the improvements in thermal efficiency can be made through simple repairs. Older windows are usually considered to be of historical value because they show a range in technical development and changes to architectural taste. Most people think that the windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, they can still provide service for 150, 200, or even 250 years if you take care of maintenance.
It is important to recognize that decay issues associated with traditional timber windows are avoidable with timely and thorough repairs. It is also important to identify damp problems and correct them swiftly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint is a particular problem, because it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. This damage is often not noticed until the paintwork is cracking or wavy however, it can cause serious structural damage and lead to further decay.
A quality paint will prevent moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. Modern synthetic paints are problematic because they are water-resistant and can cause mildew to develop in the window frame.
The majority of windows from the past were constructed from sapwood-rich timber. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to moist weather, however 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 location and climate conditions, as these factors will influence the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer a wide range of timber sash which can be made to fit the historic openings. They can be constructed according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom sizes that are in keeping with historic buildings.
Maintenance
Regular inspection carefully redecorated, as well as quick repairs can prolong the lifespan of windows made of timber. The most common cause of decay is moisture intrusion through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be prevented by thorough painting and using an excellent wood preservative.
It is crucial that repairs to old sash or casement windows are done correctly and completed without causing any disturbance. Many traditional timber
window mechnism repair designs can be repaired without dismantling the frame, and this option should be used whenever it is possible. Peeling or loose paint should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to improve the "key" of the surface and facilitate an easier adhesion of the new coating. It is important to not remove old paint layers that may have historical significance.
Where a section of timber has become rotten the best way to proceed is to remove the rotted material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to fit the existing profiles. The timber that is inserted should be treated with a wood preservative, and the joint between masonry sub-cill and timber cill should be sealed.
It can be tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC U, particularly when the installer offers an all-in-one installation that includes removal and replacement in one day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and construction 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.
window seal replacement Near me replacements should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacement windows are approved as a suitable solution in accordance with Building Regulations. It is certainly possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-u windows that fit the style of the original building. This is particularly true when the windows are situated within conservation areas or listed buildings.
