Notes

The Reasons Cambridge Window Is Greater Dangerous Than You Think
Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is an important component of a historical building. It reflects in different degrees, the materials and technologies of the time period it was constructed, the architectural style and craftsmanship.

When possible, repairs should be done in-situ. Repairing the worst areas of decay can be done using proprietary resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were made to last for hundreds of years. They do require maintenance to ensure they look good. The most common maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords as well as tightening sash pulleys and painting. There is also a rising demand to upgrade timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This could mean replacing old glass units, fixing the window rebates that are in place, or installing new cills that allow for improved air sealing.

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 sashes can be extremely wide. In these cases, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty beneath. The rotting may be further aggravated by weather conditions that are not ideal. To stop this from happening, windows must be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.

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

Another major issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall which can cause deformation of the frame and the sash. This could result in sash not fitting correctly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and even broken glass. This can be corrected often by putting in new sash frames made of slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be made of a durable hardwood, like oak, to avoid differential movement between new and older work.

There are a variety of companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash to fit into the majority of existing openings. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes that will fit the needs of modern-day homeowners. These new sash, when combined with quadruple draft strips and a more efficient thermal insulation, could significantly improve the efficiency of a home's energy use.

Aesthetics

A lot of old timber frames have a great aesthetic appeal, as they reflect, in some form, the quality of the wood technology, the construction process, and the architectural taste from the time period they were constructed. They may have significant historical significance as a set. This is especially true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed structures, which were merely a series of openings in the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions and wood or iron bars to deter intrusions.


It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. When you spot any decay caused by moisture penetration it is crucial to stop it. This can be done by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas in which there is already damage or deterioration. It is best to use paints designed to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish) and adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for preparation and number of coats at each stage.

Wet rot is a common problem for old timber windows. The best method to stop it from becoming a problem is to take out any damaged or rotten parts as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the fungus that causes it. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine) and, if possible, the same type of wood that is being removed, to avoid differential movement.

In the late period of the 17th century and the middle of the medieval period, glass became cheaper and more abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed structures gradually became more elegant with wooden tracery moulded mullions, moulded mullions, and deep projection cills. In recent years, glass was pinned into rebated frames with glazing sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak and also allows more clear glass sheets to be used than would have been possible otherwise without the use of lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows offer a good energy performance due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very attentive attention to detail. The large glass areas, deep projecting cills and large glazing areas minimize air infiltration. The windows can be made to improve their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However, it is important to keep in mind that these measures should be viewed in the context of the overall appearance and integrity of the window in its original form.

It is logical to fix or upgrade windows that are older rather than replacing them, particularly when improvements in thermal efficiency can be achieved through simple fixes. Historic windows often have a historical value that shows a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural taste. cheap windows cambridge assume that these windows will have to be replaced in the near future. However, most can still provide service for 150, 200, or even 250 years with proper maintenance.

It is crucial to recognize that the decay issues associated with traditional timber windows can be avoided by regular maintenance and prompt repairs. It is also essential to identify damp problems and correct them swiftly so that you can avoid serious damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early can be a problem because it allows moisture to penetrate 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 become wavy. However, it can cause structural damage and further decay.

A quality paint will block 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 grow in the window frame.

The majority of older windows were manufactured from timber containing an extensive proportion of sapwood. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration quickly when exposed to moist weather conditions, but they can be preserved with a thorough treatment of preservative before they are put to use. It is also essential to ensure that the kind of timber used is well-suited to the site and climate conditions, as these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer an array of timber sash which can be made to fit the historic openings. They are available in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to suit the architectural style of historic structures.

Maintenance

Regular inspection, careful redecoration, and prompt repairs can extend the life of wooden windows. The main cause of decay is moisture infiltration through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided with thorough painting and using a good quality wood preservative.

It is crucial that repairs to the old sash and casement windows are properly executed and completed without causing any disturbance. Many traditional timber window designs can be repaired without removing the frame, and this method should be used whenever it is feasible. Peeling or loose paint must be removed with care and sanded lightly to improve the 'key' of the surface and facilitate a better adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid removing old paint layers that could have historical significance.

If a piece of wood is decayed the best way to deal with it is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts designed to match existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with a wood preservative and the connection between the timber cill and the masonry sub-cill should be sealed.

Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u can be a tempting option, especially when the installer provides a 'one stop shop' installation that handles both removal and replacement within one day. It is, however, vital that the installer of replacement windows has a complete 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 technological upgrades that won't harm the character of a historic building. The window installers who provide replacement windows must be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are approved under Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. It is quite possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-U windows that match the style of the original building. This is especially true when windows are situated in listed buildings or conservation areas.

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