Notes

A Guide To Cambridge Window From Beginning To End
Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is a crucial element of the historic fabric of a structure. It reflects in different degrees, the materials and technologies of the time it was made, the architectural style and craftsmanship.

When repairs are feasible to existing windows should be made in situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay is possible by using specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

The windows made of wood in many historic structures were designed to last for a long time. But, they have to be maintained to ensure they look great and working correctly. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords as well as tightening sash pulleys and painting. window repairs cambridge for upgrading timber windows in order to improve energy efficiency is also growing. This could include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates, or installing new cills to improve air seal.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is especially important when it comes to sash windows, as the gaps between sashes may be quite large. In these instances water may get through the paint film and cause decay of the putty and underlying wood. The rotting process can be made worse due to weather conditions that are poor. To stop this from happening, windows must be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

Areas that have been damaged must also be repaired using resin-based products. This will ensure the maximum amount of original fabric is retained. It is also necessary to minimise the number of holes drilled into the frame for cable entry, as they could let in water and cause decay.

Another significant problem with older windows is the structural movement within the wall that can lead to deformation of the frame and the sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly jamming, sticking or sagging in the opening, and broken glass. This can often be fixed by the fitting of new sash boxes that have been made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to avoid differential movement between the new and existing work.

To reduce the risk to reduce the risk of this happening, there are a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern sash made of wood that can be fitted into most openings. They are available in a range of sizes and finishes to meet the needs of today's homeowner. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and better thermal insulation these sashes can make a a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of a house.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames have a great aesthetic appeal, as they show, in some shape, the materials technology, design, and style of the time they were made. They also may have a significant historical significance in their own right. This is particularly true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, which were just a collection of openings in the frame, which were divided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into wood or iron bars to keep out intrusions.

Traditional timber window joinery is a beautiful element of a structure and it is important to keep its appearance. It is crucial that any decay that results from water penetration is stopped as soon as it is identified. It is recommended to do this with thorough painting, especially if there has been damage or degradation. It is recommended to choose paints that are intended to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number coats at each stage.


The fungus responsible for wet rot can quickly spread in old timber windows. To prevent this from happening, remove any damaged or rotten parts as quickly as you can. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine) and, if possible, the same type of wood as the one that is being removed, to avoid any differential movement.

Glass became more affordable and abundant in the late medieval period and into the 17th century. As a result, the glazed openings in timber-framed homes became more complex with moulded mullions, wooden tracery and deep projecting cills. In recent years, glazing was pinned into frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak and break, but also allows wider sheets of clearer glass to be used than would have been possible without the use of leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows have excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay careful attention to detailing. The large glass areas, the deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas minimize air infiltration. The windows can be modified to improve their energy efficiency by draught-proofing and secondary glazing. It is essential to remember that these measures should be considered when it comes to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows.

As a result, retaining the existing windows from the past that require repair instead of replacing them makes sense especially when their thermal enhancements can be achieved inexpensively with simple repairs and improvements. Historic windows are often of historical value, as they reflect a variety of technical development and changes to architectural style. The pressure to replace these windows are typically based on the assumption that windows that are old will need to be replaced in the near future, but they are capable of serving for 150, 200 or even 250 years, if properly maintained.

It is crucial to recognize that the decay problems that are typical of windows made of timber can be avoided by regular maintenance and prompt repairs. Additionally, it is essential to spot damp penetration issues and address them swiftly to avoid serious damage. Early paint deterioration could be a problem as it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, leading to wet rot. The damage is usually not apparent until the paintwork is wavy or cracked, but can cause significant structural damage, and could lead to further decay.

A quality paint will stop moisture from entering the paint. To prevent condensation and mould it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. The use of modern synthetic paints could be a problem, as they are often designed to be water-resistant and this may result in the formation of mildew within the window frame.

The majority of older windows were manufactured from timber containing an extensive proportion of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to rain, however they can be preserved with a thorough preservation treatment before use. It is also crucial to ensure that the kind of timber used is well-suited to the site and climate conditions, as these elements will influence the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers produce various types of timber sash that can be adapted to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to historical structures.

Maintenance

Regular inspections, careful redecoration, and quick repairs can prolong the life of wooden windows. The primary cause of wood decay is moisture penetration through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by using a high-quality wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.

It is essential that repairs to old sash and casement windows are properly executed, and carried out with the minimum disturbance. Repairs can be made to the majority of traditional wooden window designs without removing the frame. This should be done whenever possible. Remove any 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 avoid removing old paint layers, which may have historical significance.

If a piece of wood is decayed, the best solution is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The timber inserts should be treated with wood preservative and the junction between masonry sub-cills and timber cill should be sealed.

Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u is an attractive option, especially when the installer offers an "all-in-one" installation that handles removal and replacement in a 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 right suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological advancements that won't alter the appearance of a building that is historic. 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 solution under Building Regulations. It is certainly possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-u windows that match the character of the original building. This is especially relevant when windows are situated within conservation areas or listed buildings.

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