Notes

The Reasons Why Cambridge Window Is Everyone's Obsession In 2023
Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is an essential element of a building that is historic. It reflects in different degree the technology and materials of the time it was made, the design and craftsmanship.

If it is possible, repairs must be made in-situ. Repairing the most deteriorated areas of decay can be done by using specialized resin-based systems.


Durability

The timber windows in many old buildings were built to last for hundreds of years. However, they need to be maintained to ensure that they look good and operating properly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables as well as tightening the pulleys for sash and painting. There is also a rising demand to upgrade timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This may include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates or installing new cills for improved air seal.

One of the main issues with traditional windows is damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially important where windows with sash are involved since the gaps between sashes can be extremely large. In these situations water can enter the paint film and cause rotting to the putty or wood beneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the rotting. To stop this from happening, windows should be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.

The areas that are damaged should be repaired with a resin-based product. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric is retained. It is also necessary to limit the number of holes you drill into the frame to allow cable entry since these could allow water in and cause decay.

Another significant problem with older windows is structural movement in the wall which can lead to deformation of the frame and sash. This can lead to sash no longer fitting correctly, sticking or jamming in the opening, and damaged glazing. Often this can be corrected by the fitting of new sash boxes that have been made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be constructed from durable hardwood such as oak to prevent movement between the existing and new work.

There are a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash to fit in with the majority of openings. The sash is available in a range of sizes and finishes to suit the requirements of the modern homeowner. The new sash, coupled with quadruple draft strips and improved thermal insulation can make a huge difference to the efficiency of a home's energy use.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value since they usually demonstrate, in a way the materials and techniques and architectural style of the time from which they date. They may also have significant historical value as a set. This is particularly true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed structures, where the majority were series of openings in structural frames subdivided horizontally by mullions with vertical iron or wood bars to keep out intruders.

It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. It is crucial that any decay caused by moisture penetration should be immediately stopped once it is identified. It is recommended to do this through thorough painting, especially if there is damage or degradation. It is advisable to use paints that are specifically designed to be used part of a system (primer undercoat, finish) and follow the manufacturer's instructions in relation to preparation and number of coats needed at each stage.

The fungus responsible for wet rot can spread quickly in old timber windows. To prevent this from happening, remove any rotten or damaged parts as quickly as you can. The replacement of rotting timber should be carefully undertaken using slow grown deal (pine) and, if possible using the same species as that which is being removed to prevent differential movement between the new section and the existing timbers.

Glass became less expensive and more abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. As a result, the glazed openings in timber-framed homes became more complex with moulded mullions, tracery made of wood and deep projecting cills. In recent years, glass was pinned into rebated frames with glazing sprigs instead of lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak and also allows larger sheets of glass to be used than would have been feasible without the use of led lights.

door fitters cambridge are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction as well as attention to detail. The large glass surfaces, the deep projecting cills and large glazing areas minimize air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing the windows can be improved to improve their energy efficiency. However it is crucial to keep in mind that any such measures must be considered in terms of the overall appearance and integrity of the window in its original form.

It is logical to repair or upgrade existing windows, rather than replacing them, particularly when improvement in thermal efficiency can be made through simple fixes. Older windows typically have a historical value that shows a variety of technical development and changes in architectural tastes. The pressures to replace these windows are generally based on the assumption that the old windows will need replacement in the near future, however the majority of them 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 swift repairs. It is also crucial to recognize damp issues and fix them quickly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint is a major issue, since it allows moisture penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. This type of damage is typically not evident until the paintwork becomes wavy or cracked, but can cause significant structural damage, and could lead to further decay.

A good quality paint will prevent this moisture penetration. To avoid condensation and mould it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as it can be. Modern synthetic paints pose a problem because they are water-resistant, and can cause mildew to grow within the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were manufactured from timber containing a high proportion of sapwood. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration rapidly if exposed to wet weather, but can be protected by an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are used. It is also essential to ensure that the kind of wood used is suited to the location and climate conditions, since these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers create various types of timber sash that can be adapted to fit specific historic openings. They are available in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to the architectural style of historic structures.

Maintenance

Regular inspections as well as careful redecoration and prompt repairs can extend the life of timber windows. The primary cause of wood 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.

It is crucial that repairs to the old sash and casement windows are well executed and done with minimal disruption. Many traditional timber window designs can be repaired without removing the frame, and this option should be taken whenever feasible. Remove peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the surface to improve the 'key" of the surface. This will enable the new coating to stick better. It is crucial to not remove old paint layers, as they may have historical significance.

When a section of wood has rotted the best option is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts shaped to match the existing profiles. The timber inserts should be treated using wood preservative, and the joint between masonry sub-cills and timber cill should be sealed.

Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u is a tempting option, especially when the installer provides a 'one stop shop' installation service that can handle both removal and replacement within one day. It is, however, crucial that the person who installs replacement windows has a complete understanding of the construction and history of traditional wooden frames. This will enable them to make the appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements and other technological upgrades that will not harm the character of a historic building. The window installers who provide replacement windows must be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacement windows are approved as a suitable option under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u windows that conform to original building's character. This is especially true when windows are situated in listed buildings and conservation areas.

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