Notes

5 Must-Know Hismphash Practices You Need To Know For 2023
Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained and maintained timber window is a significant element of the historical structure of a building. It reflects in different levels, the materials and technologies of the time it was constructed, the design and craftsmanship.

If repairs are possible to windows that are already in use should be done in-situ. The repair system that is based on resin can be used to fix the most deteriorated areas without removing the entire window.


Durability

Timber windows were designed to last for hundreds of years. They do require maintenance to keep them looking great. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords, retightening of sash pulleys and painting. The demand for upgrading timber windows in order to increase energy efficiency is also growing. This can include replacing old glazing units, fixing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills to improve air seal.

A key problem with traditional windows is damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially true when sash windows are concerned as the gaps between sashes can be quite large. In these situations, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting to the wood or putty underneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the rotting. To stop this from happening, windows need to be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas should be repaired with a resin-based repair product. This will ensure the maximum amount of original fabric retained. It is also important to reduce the number of holes that are drilled into the frame for cable entry, as they could allow water in and cause decay.

The structural movement of the wall could also cause deformations in the frame and the sash. This can result in sash no longer fitting correctly, sticking or jamming in the opening and broken glazing. This can be fixed frequently by putting in new sash frames constructed of slow-grown deal (pine), or oak. The cill should be constructed from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to avoid differential movement between the existing and new work.

There are several companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash to fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit the needs of modern-day homeowners. Together with quadruple draught strips and improved thermal insulation, these new sash can make significant improvements to the energy efficiency of your home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value because they typically illustrate, in some way the materials and technologies and architectural taste of the period from which they date. They may also have a significant historic value in their own right. This is especially true of early unglazed window openings in timber-framed structures, where the great majority were simply a series of openings in the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions and wood or iron bars to deter intrusions.

Traditional timber window joinery can be a stunning element of a structure and is essential to keep its appearance. It is vital that any decay caused by moisture penetration should be stopped as soon as it is recognised. This is best done by painting thoroughly, especially in areas that have already suffered damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish), and to adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for preparation and number coats at each stage.

Wet rot is a frequent problem for old timber windows and the best method to stop it from becoming a problem is to take out any damaged or rotten sections as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the fungus responsible for it. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine), and should it be possible, the same type of timber as the one being removed to prevent differential movement.

Glass became cheaper and more abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. As a result, glazed openings on timber-framed houses became more complex with moulded mullions, wooden tracery and cills that protruded deep. Increasingly, the glazing was placed within frames with rebates and then pinned with 'glazing sprigs', rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less prone to leaks but it also allows much wider and clearer sheets of glass to be used in windows than would have been possible without the need for lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness, multilayer construction and care for detail. They also have large glass areas and deep projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. The windows can be made to increase their energy efficiency through draughtproofing and secondary glazing. It is essential to keep in mind that these measures should be taken into consideration when it comes to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows.

It makes sense to repair or upgrade existing windows, rather than replacing them, particularly when improvements in thermal efficiency can be made through simple fixes. cambridge windows have an historic value that illustrates a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural style. Most people think that these windows will have to be replaced in the near future. However, many of them can still provide service for 150,200, and even 250 years with proper maintenance.

It is important to recognise that the decay problems caused by traditional timber windows can be prevented by regular maintenance and swift repairs. In addition it is crucial to identify damp penetration problems and to remedy them quickly to avoid serious damage. The early deterioration of paint can be a problem because it allows moisture to get into the wood, leading to wet rot. The damage is usually not noticed until the paintwork becomes cracking or wavy however, it can cause serious structural damage and lead to further decay.

A good quality paint will prevent this moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as it can be. Modern synthetic paints could be a problem because they are usually formulated to be water-resistant, which can lead to the formation of mildew within the window frame.

Most older windows were made of sapwood-rich timber. These timbers can deteriorate quickly when exposed to rain, however they can be protected with a thorough preservation treatment before use. It is also important to ensure that the kind of wood used is suitable to the location and climate conditions, as these factors will influence the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers have various types of sash timbers that can be made to fit the historic openings. They can be constructed according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom dimensions that are compatible with the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance

Regular inspection carefully redecorated, as well as prompt repairs can extend the lifespan of windows made of timber. The main reason for decay is moisture intrusion 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 window frames made of casement should be handled with care and with minimal disruption. It is possible to fix many traditional timber window designs without having to remove the frame. This should be done whenever possible. Loose or peeling paint should be removed carefully and lightly sanded to improve the "key" of the surface and facilitate an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid stripping old paint layers which might have historical significance and if they are present, it is recommended that a paint analysis be conducted.

If a portion of wood has rotted the best way to deal with it is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts that are shaped to match existing profiles. The timber that is inserted should be treated using wood preservative and the junction between masonry sub-cills and timber cill should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u is an attractive option, especially when the installer offers an "all-in-one" installation that handles 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 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 like FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved by the Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u windows that are suited to the original building's style. This is particularly true where windows are installed in listed buildings or conservation areas.

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