Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is an important part of a historic building. It reflects, in various degree the materials and techniques of the time it was constructed, the architectural style and craftsmanship.

When repairs are feasible to windows that are already in use should be made in-situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to fix the most damaged areas of decay without removing the whole window.

Durability

Timber windows were built to last hundreds of years. But, they have to be maintained to ensure they look good and functioning properly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables as well as tightening the pulleys on sash, and painting. There is also a growing demand for upgrading timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This may mean replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window and door repair near me rebates or putting in new cills for improved air sealing.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is particularly true when sash windows are involved as the gaps between sashes can be quite large. In these situations water can enter the paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty underneath. The rotting process can be made worse due to weather conditions that are poor. To prevent this, windows should be regularly painted with a suitable exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas should be repaired with a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric remains. It is also essential to reduce the number of holes you drill into the frame for cable entry, as they could let in water and cause decay.

Another significant problem with older windows is structural movement in the wall which can cause deformation of the frame and the sash. This can result in the sash not fitting properly or sticking or jamming into the opening, and damaged glazing. Most often, this is corrected by the fitting of new sash boxes made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill needs to be constructed of a strong hardwood like oak, to avoid shifting between the new and old work.

There are now several companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash to fit into the majority of existing openings. They are available in a range of sizes and finishes that meet the needs of today's homeowner. The new sash, coupled with quadruple draft strips and a more efficient thermal insulation, could significantly improve the energy-efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value since they usually illustrate, in some way the materials and techniques and architectural taste of the time from when they were built. They may also have significant historical value in their own right. This is particularly true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed buildings, in which the majority of them were series of openings within structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions, and vertically by wood or iron bars in order to keep out intrusions.

Traditional timber window joinery can be a highly decorative aspect of a building, and is crucial to keep it looking good. It is crucial that any decay that results from water penetration is immediately stopped once it is discovered. This is best done by painting thoroughly, especially in areas that have already suffered damage or degradation. It is advisable to use paints specifically designed to be used part of a system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations in relation to preparation and the amount of coats required at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot is able to spread quickly in old timber windows. To prevent this from happening, get rid of any damaged or rotten components 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 that is being removed, to avoid the possibility of differential movement.

Glass became more affordable and abundant during the late medieval period and into the 17th century. As a result, glazed openings on timber-framed houses became more complex with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and deep cills projecting into the air. Increasingly, the glazing was placed within frames with rebates and secured with 'glazing sprigs' rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less susceptible to leaks, but also allows for much wider, clearer sheets of glass to be used in windows than would otherwise be possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness, multilayer construction and focus on the smallest of details. They also feature large glass areas and deep projecting cills that minimise air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing windows can be upgraded to increase their energy efficiency. However it is crucial to remember that such measures should be viewed in the context of the overall appearance and integrity of the original window.

It makes sense to fix or upgrade windows that are older rather than replacing them, especially when the improvement in energy efficiency can be made through simple upvc door repairs (https://historydb.date). Older windows are usually considered to be of historical value because they show a range in technological advancements and changes to the architectural style. Most people think that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, most can still provide service for 150, 200, or even 250 years with proper maintenance.

It is essential to understand that the decay issues that are that are typical of windows made of timber can be avoided by regular maintenance and swift repairs. Additionally it is vital to identify damp penetration problems and address them swiftly to prevent serious damage. The early deterioration of paint can be a problem because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, causing wet rot. It is not uncommon for this issue to go undetected until the paintwork begins to crack or becomes wavier. However, it can cause structural damage and lead to further decay.

A good paint will block 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 could be a problem because they are usually designed to be water-resistant which can lead to the formation of mildew in the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed from timber with a high proportion of sapwood. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration rapidly if exposed to wet weather, but can be protected with an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are put to use. It is essential to select the right type of wood for your location and the climate, since these factors can affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide various types of sash made from timber that can be made to fit the historic openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to suit the architectural style of historic structures.

Maintenance

Regular inspection as well as careful redecoration and quick repairs can prolong the life of timber windows. The primary reason for decay is moisture infiltration through the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be avoided with careful painting and the use of an excellent wood preservative.

Repairs to old sash windows as well as window frames made of casement should be handled with care and with the least amount of disruption. It is possible to fix the majority of traditional wooden window designs without taking the frame off. This is a must whenever it is possible. Paint that is peeling or loose must be removed with care and sanded lightly to increase the 'key' of the surface, allowing for an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is essential to not remove old paint layers, as they may have historical value.

If a piece of wood has rotted the best option is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts designed to match the existing profiles. The timber inserts should be treated using wood preservative, and the joint between the masonry sub-cill and the timber cill should be sealed.

It can be tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, especially when the installer provides an 'all-in-one' installation which includes both replacement and removal in a single day. It is, however, crucial that the person who installs replacement windows has a full knowledge of the structure and history of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the right suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological improvements that don't harm the character of a historic building. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are approved by the Building Regulations as a suitable option. It is quite possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-U windows that fit the character of the building originally. This is particularly applicable when windows are situated within listed buildings or conservation areas.