Notes

15 Cambridge Window Benefits Everyone Should Be Able To
Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is a crucial part of the historic structure of a building. It reflects in different levels, the materials and technologies of the time period it was made, the craftsmanship and architectural taste.

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

Durability

The windows made of wood in many old buildings were made to last for centuries. However, they need to be maintained to ensure they look good and functioning properly. Maintenance tasks include sash cord repairs as well as tightening the pulleys on sash, and painting. There is also a rising demand to upgrade the timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This can involve replacing old glass units, fixing the window rebates that are in place or putting up new cills that allow for better air sealing.

One of the major issues with traditional windows is damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important when windows with sash are involved since the gaps between the sashes can be very large. In these situations water can enter the paint film and cause rotting to the wood or putty beneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the rotting. To avoid this windows from becoming rotten, they must be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

Areas that have been damaged must be repaired with a resin-based product. This will ensure that the maximum amount of original fabric retained. It is also necessary to limit the number of holes you drill into the frame for cable entry since these could admit water and lead to 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 or sticking or jamming into the opening and broken glazing. This is often corrected by fitting new sash frames made of slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill needs to be constructed of a strong hardwood like oak, in order to prevent any shifting between the new and older work.


To alleviate this issue to reduce the risk of this happening, there are several companies that manufacture Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit most existing openings. The sash is available in a range of sizes and finishes to meet the needs of today's homeowner. Combined with quadruple draught strips and a better thermal insulation, these new sash can make a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of your home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames possess a dazzling aesthetic appeal because they show, in some shape, the materials technology, design, and taste from the time period they were made. They could have significant historical significance on their own. This is particularly true of early unglazed window openings in timber-framed buildings, where the great majority were merely a series of openings in the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions and vertical wood or iron bars to deter intrusions.

Traditional timber window joinery is a beautiful element of a structure and is essential to keep its appearance. As soon as you notice any signs of decay caused by water penetration it is crucial to stop it. It is recommended to do this with thorough painting, especially where there has been damage or degradation. It is best to use paints that are designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preparation and number coats 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 soon as you can. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine), and when possible, the exact type of timber as the one that is being removed, to prevent differential movement.

In the late period of the 17th century and the middle of the medieval period, glass became less expensive and more plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became sophisticated with wooden tracery, moulded mullions and deep projection cills. The glazing was increasingly set within rebated frames and pinned in with 'glazing sprigs', rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak, but also allows for larger sheets of glass to be used than would have been feasible without the use of lead lights.

Energy efficiency

The traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction as well as care for particulars. The large glass surfaces, the deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas minimize air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, the windows can be improved to improve their energy efficiency. It is crucial to remember that these measures need to be taken into consideration in relation to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.

It is sensible to fix or upgrade historic windows rather than replace them, especially when the improvement in thermal efficiency can be made by simple repairs. Historic windows often have a historical value that demonstrates a range of technological advancement and changes in architectural taste. The pressures to replace such windows are generally based on the assumption that windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, but they are in a position to last for 150, 200 or even 250 years if properly maintained.

It is important to recognize that decay issues associated with traditional timber windows are avoidable with quick and thorough repairs. In addition it is vital to recognize damp penetration issues and fix them promptly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint could be a problem as it allows moisture to get into the wood, leading to wet rot. This type of damage is typically not evident until the paintwork is wavy or cracked but it can cause severe structural damage, and could lead to further decay.

A paint of good quality will prevent moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as it can be. The use of modern synthetic paints could be a problem, as they are often formulated to be water-resistant, which can cause the growth of mildew inside the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed from timber with an extensive proportion of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to wet weather, but can be protected by a thorough treatment of preservative before they are used. It is also crucial to ensure that the kind of timber used is well-suited to the climate and site conditions, as these elements can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers produce various types of timber sash that can be adapted to fit specific historic openings. They can be made to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom sizes that are in keeping with historic buildings.

Maintenance

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

tilt windows cambridge www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk is crucial that repairs to old sash or casement windows are done correctly, and carried out with minimal disruption. Many traditional timber window designs can be repaired without removing the frame, and this approach should be followed whenever possible. Paint that is peeling or loose should be removed with care and lightly sanded to improve the key of the surface and facilitate an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid removing old paint layers, as they may have historical significance.

If a piece of wood has rotted the best way to deal with it is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts designed to match the existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with a wood preservative and the connection between the timber cill and the masonry sub-cill should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u may be an attractive option, especially when the installer offers a 'one stop shop' installation that takes care of both removal and replacement within one day. It is crucial that the person who installs replacement windows has a full knowledge of the structure and history of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the right recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological advancements that won't affect the appearance of a building that is historic. Window replacements should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that replacement windows are approved in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. It is quite possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-u windows that fit the style of the original building. This is especially true when the windows are situated within conservation areas or listed buildings.

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