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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is an important element of the historical structure of a building. It illustrates in varying degrees the various materials and techniques, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the period from which it dates.

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 windows made of timber in many historic buildings were built to last for a long time. They do require maintenance to ensure they look good. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs as well as tightening sash pulleys and painting. There is also a rising demand to upgrade the timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This may mean replacing old glass units, repairing the window rebates that are in place, or installing new cills that allow the air to seal better.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is especially true when it comes to sash windows, as the gaps between sashes can often be very large. In these cases water can get into paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty beneath. The rotting process can be made worse due to weather conditions that are poor. To prevent this from happening, windows must be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.

Areas that have been damaged must be repaired using resin-based products. This will ensure that the greatest amount of original fabric is retained. It is also essential to reduce the number of holes you drill into the frame to allow cable entry since these could allow water in and cause decay.

Another issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall which could cause deformation of the frame and the sash. This could result in sash no longer fitting correctly, sticking or jamming in the opening, and damaged glazing. Often this can be corrected by fitting new sash boxes that have been constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill needs to be constructed of a strong hardwood like oak, to prevent shifting between the new and older work.

There are several companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash that fit most existing openings. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes that fit the needs of modern-day homeowners. Combined with quadruple draught strips and improved thermal insulation, these new sash options can make significant improvements to the energy efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old wooden windows have an excellent aesthetic value as they often demonstrate, in a way the materials and techniques and architectural style of the period from when they were built. They could have significant historical value in their own right. This is especially true of early unglazed windows in timber-framed structures, where the majority were simply a series of openings within frames of structural construction, which were divided horizontally by mullions with vertical wood or iron bars to keep out invaders.

Traditional timber window joinery can be a stunning feature of a building and it is important to maintain its appearance. It is vital that any decay that results from moisture penetration should be stopped as soon as it is discovered. It is best to do this with thorough painting, especially if there is damage or degradation. It is advisable to use paints designed to be used as part of the system (primer, undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines regarding preparation and the amount of coats needed at each stage.

Wet rot is a frequent problem in old timber windows. The best method to stop it from developing is to remove any damaged or rotten sections immediately to prevent the spread of the fungus that causes it. The replacement of rotting wood should be done with care and by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, wherever feasible it is the same species as that which is being removed to avoid shifting between the new section and existing timbers.

Glass became less expensive and more abundant during the late medieval period and into the 17th century. In the process, glazed openings on timber-framed houses were more elaborate, with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and deep cills projecting into the air. In recent times, glass was fixed to frames that were rebated with glazing sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaks but it can allow for larger clearer, more transparent sheets of glass to be used in windows than would otherwise have been possible without the need for lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows provide an excellent energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay meticulous attention to detail. The large glass areas, deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. Windows can be designed to increase their energy efficiency by draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However it is crucial to remember that such measures must be considered in relation to the overall appearance and integrity of the original window.

It is logical to fix or upgrade windows that are older rather than replacing them, particularly when improvement in thermal efficiency can be achieved by simple repairs. Older windows are usually considered to be of historical value because they demonstrate a variety in technological advancements and changes to architectural style. The pressure to replace these windows are usually based on the assumption that the old windows will need replacement in the near future, but they are capable of serving for 150, 200 and even 250 years if they are properly maintained.

It is crucial to understand that decay problems with traditional timber windows can be preventable by timely and thorough repairs. In addition it is vital to spot damp penetration issues and fix them promptly to avoid major damage. Early paint deterioration is a concern because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, which can cause wet rot. This damage is often not noticed until the paintwork becomes damaged or wavy, but can cause significant structural damage, and could lead to further decay.

A quality paint will block moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints could be a problem because they are usually made to be water-resistant and this may result in the formation of mildew within the window frame.

The majority of older windows were constructed from sapwood-rich wood. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration quickly when exposed to moist weather, but can be protected by an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are put to use. glaziers cambridge is important to choose the right kind of wood for the location and the climate, since these factors will affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer a wide range of sash timbers that can be made to fit the historic openings. They can be built according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that are in keeping with the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance

Regular inspection, careful redecoration, and timely repairs can prolong the lifespan of windows made of timber. The primary cause of wood decay is the penetration of moisture through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a high-quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

It is crucial that repairs to old sash and casement windows are done correctly and done with the minimum disturbance. A lot of traditional wooden window designs are repairable without removing the frame, and this method should be taken whenever feasible. Loose or peeling paint must be removed with care and sanded lightly 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 that may have historic value If these are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted.

If a piece of timber has begun to decay, the best course of action is to eliminate the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with a wood preserver, and the junction between the timber cill and the sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u is a tempting option, especially when the installer offers an "all-in-one" installation that takes care of both removal and replacement within one day. It is vital that the installer of replacement windows has a full knowledge of the construction and history of traditional wooden frames. This will allow them to make the right suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological advancements that won't harm the character of a historic building. The windows that are replaced should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed acceptable by the Building Regulations as a suitable option. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u windows that are suited to original building's character. This is especially true where windows are installed in listed buildings and conservation areas.

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