Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is a crucial element of a building that is historic. It illustrates in varying degrees the various materials and techniques design, craftsmanship and aesthetics of the time that it was built in.

Whenever possible repairs to existing windows should be done in situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to repair the worst areas of decay without removing the whole window.

Durability

The windows made of timber in many historic structures were designed to last for a long time. But, they have to be maintained to ensure they look good and operating properly. Maintenance tasks include sash cord repairs, retightening of sash pulleys and painting. The demand for enhancing windows made of timber to improve energy efficiency is also growing. This can involve replacing old glass units, fixing existing window rebates or putting in new cills to allow for better air sealing.

One of the main issues with traditional windows is the damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially true in the case of sash windows because the gaps between sashes may be quite large. In these situations, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty beneath. The rotting process can be made worse by weather conditions that are not ideal. To prevent this, windows should be regularly painted with a suitable exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas should be repaired with an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric is retained. It is also necessary to limit the number of holes drilled into the frame for cable entry, as they could allow water in and cause decay.

Another major issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall, which can lead to deformation of the frame and the sash. This can lead to sash no longer fitting correctly and jamming or sticking to the opening and cracked glazing. Often this can be corrected by the fitting of new sash boxes that have been made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be made from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to prevent movement between the existing and new work.

There are a variety of companies that make Boston pattern wooden windows and doors cambridge sash that fit most existing openings. These sash are available in a range of sizes and finishes to meet the needs of the modern homeowner. These sash are combined with quadruple draft strips and a better thermal insulation, can make a huge difference to the efficiency of a home's energy use.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value because they typically demonstrate, in a way, the materials and technology and architectural taste of the time from which they originate. They may have significant historical value as a set. This is especially true of early unglazed windows in timber-framed structures, where the majority of them were series of openings within frames of structural construction, which were divided horizontally by mullions with vertical iron or wood bars in order to keep out intrusions.

It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. When you spot any signs of decay caused by moisture penetration it is crucial to stop it. This is best done by a thorough painting process, especially in areas where there has already been damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints that are designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number of coats at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot can spread quickly in old windows made of wood. To stop this from happening, get rid of any damaged or rotten parts as quickly as you can. Replace rotting wood with slow-growing deal (pine), and when possible, the exact type of wood as the one being removed to prevent differential movement.

Glass became more affordable and abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. In the process, the glazed openings in timber-framed homes became more complicated with moulded mullions, wooden tracery and deep projecting cills. In recent years, glass was fixed to frames that were rebated with glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less prone to leaking but also allows for larger, clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would have been possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows offer excellent energy efficiency 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 reduce air infiltration. The windows can be made to improve their energy efficiency through draughtproofing and secondary glazing. It is important to keep in mind that these measures should be taken into consideration when it comes to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.

So, retaining old windows that are in need of repair rather than replacing them is logical, particularly when their thermal improvements can be achieved inexpensively with simple emergency upvc door repairs and upgrades. Historic windows are often of historical significance, since they demonstrate a variety in technical development and changes to architectural style. The pressures to replace such windows are typically based on the assumption that windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, however most are still capable of serving for 150, 200 or even 250 years, if properly maintained.

It is crucial to understand that decay issues with traditional timber windows can be preventable by prompt and thorough repairs. Additionally it is vital to spot damp penetration issues and to remedy them quickly to prevent serious damage. The early deterioration of paint is a concern because it allows moisture to get into the wood, causing wet rot. The damage is usually not evident until the paintwork is damaged or wavy, but can cause significant structural damage, and could lead to further decay.

A high-quality paint will prevent this moisture from entering. To prevent condensation and mould it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. Modern synthetic paints can pose a problem because they are usually designed to be water-resistant and this may lead to the formation of mildew in the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were made from timber that contained a high proportion of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to wet weather conditions, but they can be protected with a thorough treatment of preservative before they are used. It is also crucial to ensure that the type of wood used is suited to the location and climate conditions, since these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers have an array of timber sash which can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be made according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom sizes that fit with the historic architecture.

Maintenance

Regular inspection, careful redecoration, and quick repairs can prolong the life of wooden windows. The main reason for the decay is moisture infiltration through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by using a quality wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.

Repairs to sash windows that are old and frameless casement windows should be done with care and with the least amount of disruption. Many traditional timber window mechnism Repair designs are repairable without removing the frame, and this option should be followed whenever feasible. Peeling or loose paint must be removed with care and sanded lightly to increase the key of the surface, allowing for an easier adhesion of the new coating. Be careful to avoid stripping paint layers that might have historical significance If these are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be carried out.

If a piece of timber is rotten, the best option is to remove the rotted material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The inserted timber should also be treated using wood preservative, and the joint between masonry sub-cills and timber cill should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows using PVC-u is an attractive option, especially when the installer provides a "one-stop shop" installation that takes care of both removal and replacement within one day. It is important that the installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological improvements that don't affect the appearance of an historic building. The windows that are replaced must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme like as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved under Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u windows that conform to the original character of the building. This is particularly applicable when windows are situated within conservation areas or listed buildings.