Notes

5 Cambridge Window Projects For Any Budget
Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is a crucial element of a building that is historic. It reflects in different degrees, the materials and techniques of the time it was constructed, as well as the architectural style and craftsmanship.

When possible, repairs should be done in-situ. The repair system that is based on resin can be used to repair the most deteriorated areas without having to remove the entire window.

Durability

Timber windows were built to last for hundreds of years. They do require maintenance to keep them looking good. Maintenance tasks include sash cord repairs and retightening pulleys on sash, and painting. The need to upgrade windows made of timber to increase energy efficiency is also growing. This can include replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window rebates, or installing new cills to improve air seal.

One of the major issues with traditional windows is damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important in the case of sash windows, as the gaps between sashes may be quite large. In these instances, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting to the putty or wood beneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the rotting. To prevent this windows, they should be painted regularly with a suitable exterior wood paint.

The areas that are damaged should be repaired with a resin-based product. This will ensure the maximum amount of original fabric is retained. It is important to minimize the number of holes that are drilled into the frame in order to allow cable entry, as these can admit moisture and cause decay.

upvc window renovation www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk of the wall could also cause distortions in the frame as well as the sash. This can result in the sash not fitting properly jamming, sticking or sagging in the opening, or breaking glass. This can often be fixed by the fitting of new sash boxes constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill needs to be constructed of a durable hardwood, such as oak, to prevent differential movement between new and existing work.

To reduce the risk There are a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit most existing openings. These sash come in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit the needs of modern-day homeowners. These sash are coupled with quadruple draft strips and a better thermal insulation, can make a huge difference to the energy-efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value because they typically illustrate, in some way the materials and techniques and architectural style of the period from which they date. 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 where the great majority were just a collection of openings within the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into iron or wood bars to deter intruders.

Traditional window joinery made of timber can be a stunning element of a structure and it is important to keep it looking good. As soon as you see any signs of decay caused by water penetration it is essential to stop it. It is recommended to do this with thorough painting, especially where there is damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints that are designed to be used as part of a system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding preparation and the amount of coats needed at each stage.

Wet rot is a typical problem for old timber windows. The best way to stop it growing is to eliminate any damaged or rotten sections as soon as you can to stop the spread of the fungus that causes it. Replace rotting wood with slow-growing deal (pine) and, should it be possible, the same kind of timber as the one that is being removed to prevent differential movement.


In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became cheaper and more abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed buildings gradually became more sophisticated, with tracery made of wood as well as moulded mullions and protruding cills. In recent years, glass was fixed into frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs instead of lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less prone to leaking but it also allows larger clearer, more transparent sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would otherwise be possible without the need for lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows offer a good energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction, as well as careful attention to detailing. The large glass areas, deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas minimize air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing the windows can be improved to increase their energy efficiency. It is essential to remember that these measures need to be considered when it comes to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.

As a result, retaining existing historic windows that are in need of repair instead of replacing them is sensible particularly when thermal enhancements can be made cost-effectively through simple repairs and upgrades. The windows of the past often have an historic value that shows a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural taste. Many people believe that these windows will have to be replaced in the near future. However, most will last for 150,200, and even 250 years if you take care of maintenance.

It is essential to realize that decay issues associated in traditional timber windows are avoidable with quick and thorough repairs. It is also essential to recognize damp issues and fix them quickly to avoid major damage. Early paint deterioration is a concern because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, causing wet rot. It is not uncommon for this type of damage to go unnoticed until the paintwork starts to crack or turn wavy. However, it can cause structural damage and lead to further decay.

A good quality paint will stop this moisture from entering. It is also essential to keep the paintwork in good condition in order to prevent condensation and the growth of mould. Modern synthetic paints can be problematic because they are usually designed to be water-resistant and this may cause the growth of mildew inside the window frame.

The majority of older windows were manufactured from timber containing an extensive proportion of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate very quickly when exposed to moist weather, however they can be protected by a thorough preservative treatment before they are put to use. It is essential to select the right type of wood for the site and climate, as these variables can affect 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 according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom dimensions that are compatible with the historic architecture.

Maintenance

Regular inspections carefully redecorated, as well as timely repairs can prolong the lifespan of windows made of timber. The most common cause of decay is moisture infiltration through the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be prevented by thorough painting and the use of high-quality wood preservative.

It is important that repairs to old sash or casement windows are done correctly and completed with the minimum disturbance. A lot of traditional wooden window designs can be repaired without dismantling the frame, and this option should be used whenever it is feasible. Remove any peeling or loose paint and then lightly sand the surface to improve the 'key" of the surface. This will allow the new coating to adhere better. It is essential to avoid removing old paint layers that 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 designed to match the existing profiles. The timber that is inserted should be treated with wood preservative. The junction between masonry sub-cill and timber cill should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows using PVC-u may be a tempting option, especially when the installer provides an "all-in-one" installation that takes care of removal and replacement in the span of a day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows have a thorough understanding of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the right recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological improvements that don't alter the appearance of an historic building. The windows that are replaced should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure that replacement windows are deemed to be approved by the Building Regulations as a suitable option. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to original building's character. This is particularly true when the windows are situated within conservation areas or listed buildings.

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