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How To Find The Perfect Cambridge Window On The Internet
Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained timber window is an important part of the historic fabric of a structure. It reflects in varying degree the materials and techniques of the time period it was made, the architectural style and craftsmanship.


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

Durability

The timber windows in many historic buildings were made to last for centuries. They do require some maintenance to keep them looking great. Maintenance tasks include sash cord repairs, retightening of sash pulleys and painting. The need to upgrade timber windows in order to improve energy efficiency is also growing. This can include replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window rebates or installing new cills for improved air seal.

A key problem 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 instances water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty as well as the wood underneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the rotting. To stop this from happening, windows must be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.

Corroded areas should also be repaired using a resin-based product. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is essential to limit the number of holes made into the frame to allow cable access, since they can let in moisture and cause decay.

Another issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall which could cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly, sticking or jamming in the opening, and damaged glazing. Often this can be corrected by the fitting of new sash boxes that have been constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be made from a sturdy hardwood, such as oak, in order to prevent any differential movement between new and existing work.

To alleviate this issue, there are now a variety of companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit most existing openings. The sash is available in a variety of sizes and finishes that meet the needs of today's homeowner. These new sash, when combined with quadruple draft strip and a better thermal insulation, can make a significant difference to the efficiency of a home's energy use.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value as they often show, in a particular way the materials and techniques and architectural taste of the period from which they originate. They may also have a significant historical significance in their individual cases. This is particularly true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, where the majority of them were series of openings within structural frames subdivided horizontally by mullions with vertical wood or iron bars in order to protect against intruders.

It is essential to preserve the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. As soon as you see any decay caused by moisture penetration it is crucial to stop it. This is best accomplished by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas where there has already been damage or degradation. It is advisable to use paints specifically designed to be used part of the system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines in terms of preparation and number of coats needed at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot can spread quickly in old windows made of wood. To stop this from happening, remove any damaged or rotten parts as promptly as you are able to. The replacement of rotting wood should be done with care and using slow grown deal (pine) and, if feasible, the same species as that which is being removed in order to prevent differential movement between the new section and the existing timbers.

In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became less expensive and more abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed buildings gradually became sophisticated, with tracery made of wood, moulded mullions and deep projecting cills. The glazing was increasingly placed within frames with rebates and then pinned with 'glazing sprigs', rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak and also allows larger sheets of glass to be utilized than would have been possible otherwise 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. The large glass areas, deep projecting cills and large glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing windows can be made more efficient to improve their energy efficiency. However, it is important to keep in mind that any such measures should be viewed in the context of the overall integrity and appearance of the window in its original form.

It is sensible to repair or upgrade existing historic windows rather than replace them, particularly when improvement in thermal efficiency can be achieved through simple fixes. Older windows are usually considered to be of historical value because they reflect a variety of technological advancement and changes in architectural style. Many people believe that these windows will have to be replaced in the near future. However, they are still in service for 150,200, and even 250 years with proper maintenance.

It is important to recognize that decay issues in traditional timber windows are preventable by timely and thorough repairs. Additionally it is vital to spot damp penetration issues and fix them promptly to avoid major damage. Early deterioration of paint is a major issue, as it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. This damage is often not apparent until the paintwork becomes cracking or wavy however, it can cause serious structural damage and lead to further decay.

A good paint will prevent moisture penetration. To prevent condensation and mould, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. Modern synthetic paints pose a challenge because they are water-resistant and can cause mildew growth within the window frame.

The majority of older windows were constructed from timber with a high proportion of sapwood. These timbers deteriorate quickly if exposed to rain, but they can be preserved with a thorough preservation treatment before use. It is also important to ensure that the type of wood used is suited to the climate and site conditions, as these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers create various types of timber sash that can be tailored to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to historical buildings.

Maintenance

Regular inspections, careful redecoration, and timely repairs can prolong the lifespan of windows made of timber. The primary reason for the decay is the infiltration of moisture through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be avoided by using a good wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

Repairs to sash windows that are old and frameless casement windows should be done with care and with the least amount of disruption. Many of the traditional designs for timber windows are repairable without removing the frame, and this option should be taken whenever possible. Remove loose or peeling paint and lightly sand the area to improve the "key" of the surface. This will enable the new coating to adhere better. Care should be taken to avoid stripping paint layers that could have historical value and if they are present, it is recommended that a paint analysis be conducted.

When a piece of wood is rotten, 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 timber inserts should be treated with a wood preservative and the junction between masonry sub-cill and timber cill should be sealed.

Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u can be a tempting option, especially when the installer provides an "all-in-one" installation that handles removal and replacement within one day. However, it is vital that the installer of replacement windows has a complete understanding of the construction and history of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements and other technical upgrades that do not alter the historical 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. cheap double glazing cambridge is able to install PVC-u windows that conform to the original character of the building. This is especially true when windows are installed in listed buildings or conservation areas.

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