Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden Low-e window repair is an essential component of a historical building. It reflects, in various levels, the materials and techniques of the time it was made, the design and craftsmanship.

When repairs are feasible to existing windows are required, they should be made in-situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to repair the most deteriorated areas without removing the entire window.

Durability

timber double glazed windows cambridge windows were designed to last for hundreds of years. However, they do need to be maintained to ensure they look great and working properly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables and retightening pulleys for sash and painting. There is also a rising demand for upgrading timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This can include replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window rebates, or installing new cills to improve air seal.

One of the main issues with traditional windows is the damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important in the case of sash windows as the gaps between sashes may be quite large. In these instances water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood underneath. The rotting process can be made worse by poor weather conditions. To avoid this windows, they should be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

Areas that have been damaged must be repaired with resin-based products. This will ensure that the maximum amount of original fabric is preserved. It is also essential to reduce the number of holes drilled into the frame to allow cable entry as these can let in water and cause decay.

The wall's structural movement can cause distortions in the frame as well as sash. This can result in the sash fitting incorrectly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and broken glass. This can be fixed frequently by putting in new sash frames constructed of slow-grown deal (pine), or oak. The cill should be constructed from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to avoid differential movement between the old and new work.

To reduce the risk, there are now several companies that make Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit most existing openings. They are available in a range of sizes and finishes to suit the requirements of the modern homeowner. Together with quadruple draught strips and better thermal insulation these new sash can make an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of your home.

Aesthetics

Many old wooden windows have an excellent aesthetic value since they usually show, in a particular way the materials and techniques and architectural taste of the time from which they date. They may also have significant historical value as a set. This is especially true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed structures, where the majority were simply a series of openings within structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions, and vertically by wood or iron bars in order to keep out invaders.

It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. As soon as you see any decay caused by water penetration it is essential to stop it. It is best to do this through thorough painting, especially where there has been damage or degradation. It is advisable to use paints specifically designed to be used part of the system (primer undercoat, finish) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines in relation to preparation and the number of coats needed at each stage.

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

Glass became cheaper and more abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. This led to glazed openings on timber-framed houses were more elaborate, with moulded mullions, tracery made of wood and deep cills projecting into the air. Increasingly, the glazing was set within rebated frames and secured by 'glazing sprigs' rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak, but also allows for larger sheets of glass to be employed than would be possible otherwise without the use of lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows have excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very attentive attention to detail. The large glass surfaces, the deep projecting cills, and the large double glazing near me areas minimize air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, the windows can be improved to improve their energy efficiency. However it is crucial to remember that such measures should be evaluated in the context of the overall integrity and appearance of the window lock repairs in its original form.

It is logical to fix or upgrade windows that are older rather than replacing them, especially when the improvements in thermal efficiency can be made through simple fixes. Older windows typically have a historical value that demonstrates a range of technological advances and changes in architectural tastes. Most people think that these windows will have to be replaced in the near future. However, most will last for 150,200, and even 250 years with proper maintenance.

It is essential to realize that decay issues associated with traditional timber windows can be easily prevented with timely and thorough repairs. It is also crucial to spot damp issues and address them promptly in order to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint is a particular problem, because it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. The damage is usually not evident until the paintwork becomes wavy or cracked but it can cause severe structural damage and can lead to further decay.

A quality paint will block moisture penetration. It is also important to keep the paintwork spotless to avoid condensation and the growth of mould. Modern synthetic paints pose a problem since they are usually water-resistant, and can cause mildew to develop in the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed of sapwood-rich timber. These timbers can deteriorate quickly when exposed to rain, however they can be preserved with an extensive preservation treatment prior to use. It is also important to ensure that the type of wood used is suited to the site and climate conditions, since these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers produce a range of sash made of timber that can be customized to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be constructed to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom dimensions that are compatible with historic buildings.

Maintenance

The life span of windows made from timber can be extended by regular inspection, careful redecoration and timely repair. The primary reason for decay is the infiltration of moisture through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be prevented by careful painting and using high-quality wood preservative.

It is important that repairs to old sash and casement windows are well executed and completed without causing any disturbance. A lot of traditional wooden window designs can be repaired without removing the frame, and this option should be taken whenever feasible. Paint that is peeling or loose should be removed carefully and lightly sanded to improve 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.

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

Replacement of traditional windows using PVC-u can be a tempting option, especially when the installer offers a 'one stop shop' installation service that can handle removal and replacement in one day. It is, however, essential that the person installing windows replacement has a thorough understanding of the construction and history of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements as well as other technological improvements that don't affect the appearance of a historic building. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that the replacement windows are approved as a suitable solution under Building Regulations. It is certainly possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-U windows that are sympathetic to the style of the building originally. This is particularly applicable when windows are in conservation areas or listed buildings.