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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained timber window repair is a crucial part of the historic fabric of a structure. It illustrates in varying degrees the materials and technologies, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the period from which it dates.

If it is possible, repairs must be done in-situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to repair the most damaged areas of decay without having to remove the entire window.

Durability

Timber windows were built to last hundreds of years. However, they do need to be maintained to keep them looking great and working properly. The most frequent maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs, re-tightening sash pulleys, and painting. There is also a rising demand to upgrade timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This may include replacing old glazing units, fixing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills to improve air seal.

One of the major issues with traditional windows is damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important when it comes to sash windows because the gaps between sashes may be quite large. In these circumstances water can get into the paint film and cause decay of the putty and the wood underneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the decay. To stop this from happening, windows must be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas need to be repaired with a resin-based repair product. This will ensure the maximum amount of original fabric retained. It is also necessary to minimise the number of holes drilled into the frame to allow cable entry as these can let in water and cause decay.

Another major issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall which can lead to deformation of the frame and the sash. This can lead to sash no longer fitting correctly or sticking or jamming into the opening, and damaged glazing. Often this can be corrected by the fitting of new sash boxes constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be made from a sturdy hardwood, like oak, to avoid shifting between the new and existing work.

To help reduce this problem, there are now a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern sash made of wood that can be fitted into most openings. The sash is available in a range of sizes and finishes to suit the needs of the modern homeowner. Together with quadruple draught strips and improved thermal insulation, these new sash can make significant improvements to the energy efficiency of a house.

Aesthetics

A lot of old timber frames possess a dazzling aesthetic appeal because they show, in some form, the quality of the wood technology, design, and taste from the time period they were constructed. They may also have significant historical value as a set. This is especially true of early unglazed windows in timber-framed buildings, where the majority of them were series of openings within structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions, and vertically by iron or wood bars to protect against intruders.

Traditional timber window joinery is a beautiful aspect of a building, and is crucial to keep its appearance. When you spot any signs of decay due to moisture penetration, it is important to stop it. It is best to do this with thorough painting, especially where there has been damage or deterioration. It is best to choose paints that are intended to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish) and to adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for preparation and number coats at each stage.

Wet rot is a common issue in old timber windows and the best method to stop it from becoming a problem is to take out any damaged or rotten sections immediately to prevent the spread of the fungus responsible for it. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing 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 abundant, so that the double glazed door repairs glazed upvc door repair seal repairs (click through the following website) openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became sophisticated, with tracery made of wood as well as moulded mullions and protruding cills. In recent years, glass was fixed into frames that were rebated using double glazing repairs cambridge sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak and break, but also allows more clear glass sheets to be employed than would be feasible without the use of leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows have excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay meticulous attention to detail. They also feature large glass areas and projection cills which reduce air infiltration. Windows can be designed to improve their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. It is essential to keep in mind that these measures should be considered when it comes to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows.

Therefore, keeping old windows that are in need of repair instead of replacing them is sensible, particularly when their thermal enhancements can be achieved inexpensively with simple repairs and upgrades. Older windows typically have an historic value that illustrates a variety of technological advancement and changes in architectural style. The pressures to replace these windows are generally based on the assumption that the windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, however they are capable of serving for 150, 200 or even 250 years, if properly maintained.

It is essential to understand that the decay issues that are typical of timber windows can be avoided by regular maintenance and prompt repairs. Additionally, it is essential to identify damp penetration problems and to remedy them quickly to prevent serious damage. Early paint deterioration is a major issue, as it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this type of damage to go undetected until the paintwork starts to crack or turn wavier. However, it can cause structural damage and then further decay.

A quality paint will stop moisture from entering the paint. To prevent condensation and mould it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as it can be. The use of modern synthetic paints can be problematic since they are typically designed to be water-resistant and this can cause the growth of mildew in the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were made from timber that contained a high proportion of sapwood. These timbers deteriorate quickly if exposed to rain, but they can be protected by an extensive preservation treatment prior to use. It is essential to select the appropriate type of wood for the location and the climate, since these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide an array of sash made from timber that can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historic buildings.

Maintenance

The life span of windows made from timber can be extended considerably through regular inspections as well as a careful redecoration and timely repair. 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 important that repairs to the old sash and casement windows are properly executed and completed with minimal disruption. A lot of traditional wooden window designs can be repaired without dismantling the frame, and this approach should be used whenever it is feasible. Loose or peeling paint should be removed with care and sanded lightly to increase the "key" of the surface and facilitate an easier adhesion of the new coating. It is essential to avoid removing old paint layers, as they may have historical value.

If a piece of wood has rotted the best option is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The inserted timber should also be treated with wood preservative and the junction between the masonry sub-cill and the timber cill should be sealed.

It can be tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC U, particularly if the installer offers an 'all-in-one' installation which includes removal and replacement in a single day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows have a thorough understanding of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements and other technical improvements that do not alter the historical character of a building. Those who provide replacement windows should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme like as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacement windows are approved as a suitable solution in accordance with Building Regulations. It is certainly possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-u windows that are sympathetic to the character of the original building. This is especially true where windows are installed in listed buildings or conservation areas.