Notes

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

A well-maintained wooden window is an essential element of a building that is historic. It reflects in different degree the materials and technologies of the time period it was constructed, the design and craftsmanship.

Whenever possible repairs to existing windows are required, they should be done in situ. Repairing the worst areas of decay is possible using proprietary resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were made to last for hundreds of years. They do require maintenance to keep them looking good. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables as well as tightening the sash pulleys and painting. There is also a rising demand for upgrading timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This may mean replacing old glass units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or putting in new cills for better air sealing.

double glazed windows cambridge with traditional windows is the damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly true when windows with sash are involved since the gaps between the sashes can be extremely large. In these circumstances water can get into the paint film and cause decay of the putty and underlying wood. The rotting may be further aggravated by poor weather conditions. To stop this from happening windows, they should be painted regularly using a suitable exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded must be repaired using the help of a resin-based repair solution. This will ensure the maximum amount of original fabric retained. It is also essential to reduce the number of holes drilled into the frame for cable entry since these could allow water in and cause decay.

Another issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall that can cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can lead to the sash fitting incorrectly and jamming or sticking into the opening, and even broken glass. This can be fixed frequently by fitting new frames for sash made of slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed of a durable hardwood like oak to prevent movement between the old and new work.

There are now several companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash that fit most existing openings. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit the requirements of the modern homeowner. Together with quadruple draught strips and a better thermal insulation, these new sash options can make significant improvements to the energy efficiency of your home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value as they often show, in a particular way, the materials and technology and architectural taste of the time from which they date. They could also have significant historical value in their in their own right. This is especially true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, where the majority of them were series of openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions, and vertically by wood or iron bars in order to protect against intrusions.

Traditional window joinery made from timber is a beautiful feature of a building and is crucial to keep it looking good. It is essential that any decay that results from the penetration of moisture should be removed as soon as it is recognised. It is recommended to do this by 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 adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for preparation and number of coats at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot is able to spread quickly in old windows made of wood. To prevent this, remove any rotten or damaged parts as soon as you can. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine), and should it be possible, the same type of wood as the one being removed, to prevent the possibility of differential movement.

Glass became less expensive and more abundant in the late medieval period and into the 17th century. In the process, glazed openings on timber-framed houses became more complicated with moulded mullions, tracery made of wood and deep cills projecting into the air. Increasingly, the glazing was laid within rebated frames and secured with 'glazing sprigs' rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less susceptible to leaks, but it also allows larger clearer, more transparent sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would be possible without the need for lead lights.

Energy efficiency

The traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction as well as attention to the smallest of details. The large glass surfaces, the deep projection cills and wide glazing areas minimize air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing windows can be made more efficient to improve their energy efficiency. It is crucial to remember that these measures must be considered in relation to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.

Therefore, keeping old windows that are in need of repair instead of replacing them makes sense particularly when thermal enhancements can be made inexpensively with simple repairs and upgrades. Older windows are usually of historical value, as they reflect a variety of technological advancement and changes in architectural taste. Most people think that the windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, many of them can still provide service for 150, 200, or even 250 years with proper maintenance.

It is important to recognise that the decay problems that are typical of timber windows can be prevented by regular maintenance and timely repairs. It is also crucial to recognize damp issues and fix them quickly so that you can avoid serious damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early could be a problem as it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, leading to wet rot. This damage is often not apparent until the paintwork becomes cracking or wavy, but can cause significant structural damage, and could lead to further decay.

A good quality paint will prevent this moisture penetration. It is also essential to keep the paintwork clean to avoid condensation and the growth of mould. The use of modern synthetic paints can pose a problem since they are typically made to be water-resistant and this can lead to the formation of mildew inside the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed from sapwood-rich wood. These timbers deteriorate quickly if exposed to rain, but they can be protected by a thorough preservation treatment before use. It is important to choose the right type of wood for your 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 adapted to fit historical openings. They can be built to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom dimensions that are compatible with the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance

The life span of windows made from timber can be extended considerably by regular inspection carefully redecoration, and timely repair. The most common reason for the decay is moisture intrusion through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by thorough painting and using an excellent wood preservative.

It is crucial that repairs to old sash and casement windows are well executed and done without causing any disturbance. It is possible to fix many traditional timber window designs without taking the frame off. 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 allow the new coating to stick better. It is important to avoid stripping paint layers that could have historical value If these are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted.


Where a section of timber has become rotten the best option is to take out the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to fit the existing profiles. The timber inserts should be treated with wood preservative, and the joint between the masonry sub-cill and the timber cill should be sealed.

It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, particularly when the installer offers an 'all-in-one' installation which includes removal and replacement in a single day. It is essential that the person installing replacement windows has a complete understanding of the construction and history of traditional wooden frames. This will enable them to make the right recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological advancements that won't alter the appearance of an historic building. The window installers who provide replacement windows must be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved as a suitable solution in accordance with Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to the original character of the building. This is particularly relevant when windows are located within conservation areas or listed buildings.

Website: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/cambridge-windowrepair/