Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is an important component of a historical building. It reflects, in various degrees, the materials and technologies of the time in which it was constructed, as well as the craftsmanship and architectural taste.

When repairs are feasible to windows that are already in use should be done in-situ. The upvc door repair cost system that is based on resin can be used to fix the worst areas of decay without removing the entire window.

Durability

The windows made of wood in many historical structures were designed to last for Victorian window repair hundreds of years. However, they need to be maintained to ensure that they look great and working properly. Maintenance tasks include sash cord repairs, retightening of sash pulleys and painting. The demand for upgrading timber windows in order to increase efficiency and energy efficiency is also increasing. This can involve replacing old glass units, fixing the window rebates that are in place, or installing new cills that allow for better air sealing.

A key problem with traditional windows is damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly true when windows with sash are involved since the gaps between sashes can be very large. In these instances, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty beneath. The rotting may be further aggravated due to weather conditions that are poor. To stop this from happening, windows should be regularly painted with a suitable exterior wood paint.

Corroded areas should also be repaired using resin-based products. This will ensure that the highest possible amount of the original fabric is retained. It is also essential to reduce the number of holes that are drilled into the frame for cable entry since these could admit water and lead to decay.

The structural movement of the wall could also cause distortions in the frame as well as the sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly or sticking or jamming into the opening and cracked glazing. This can be fixed frequently by putting in new sash frames constructed of slow-grown deal (pine), or oak. The cill must be made of a strong hardwood such as oak, to avoid shifting between the new and old work.

To help reduce this problem, there are now a number of companies who make Boston pattern sash made of wood that can be fitted into most openings. The sash is available in a range of sizes and finishes that meet the requirements of the modern homeowner. The new sash, combined with quadruple draft strip and improved thermal insulation can significantly improve the energy-efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames have a great aesthetic appeal, as they display, in a certain form, the quality of the wood, technology, and architectural aesthetics of the time they were built. They could also have a significant historical significance in their individual cases. This is especially true of early unglazed windows in timber-framed buildings, where the majority of them were series openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions with vertical wood or iron bars in order to protect against intruders.

Traditional window joinery made of timber can be a stunning feature of a building and it is important to keep its appearance. As soon as you notice any signs of decay caused by moisture penetration it is essential to stop it. This can be done by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas where there has already been damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints that are designed to be used as part of the system (primer undercoat, finish) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines in terms of preparation and the amount of coats required at each stage.

The fungus responsible for wet rot can quickly spread in old windows made of timber. To prevent this from happening, get rid of any rotten or damaged parts as soon as you can. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine) and, if possible, the same kind of timber that is being removed, to avoid differential movement.

Glass became more affordable and abundant during the late medieval period and into the 17th century. This led to the openings for glazed windows on timber-framed houses were more elaborate, with moulded mullions, wooden tracery and deep projecting cills. In recent years, glazing was fixed to rebated frames with glazing 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 utilized than would have been feasible without the use of leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows have an excellent energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay meticulous attention to detail. The large glass surfaces, the deep projecting cills, and the large double glazing repairs cambridge areas reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing windows can be made more efficient to increase their energy efficiency. However it is crucial to remember that such measures should be viewed in terms of the overall integrity and appearance of the upvc window and door repairs in its original form.

It is sensible to fix or upgrade windows, rather than replacing them, especially when the improvements in energy efficiency can be made by simple repairs. The windows of the past often have historical significance that shows a variety of technical development and changes in architectural taste. Most people assume that the windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, most can still provide service for 150, 200 or even 250 years if you take care of maintenance.

It is crucial to recognize that the decay problems caused by traditional windows made of timber can be avoided by thorough maintenance and timely repairs. It is also important to recognize damp issues and correct them swiftly in order to avoid major damage. Early deterioration of paint is a particular problem, because it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this type of damage to go unnoticed until the paintwork begins to crack or become curly. However, it could cause structural damage and further decay.

A good quality paint will stop this moisture penetration. It is also important to keep the paintwork in good condition to avoid condensation and the growth of mould. Modern synthetic paints can be problematic since they are typically made to be water-resistant which can result in the formation of mildew inside the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were made from timber that contained an extensive proportion of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to rain, however they can be preserved with a thorough preservation treatment before use. It is essential to select the appropriate type of wood for your location and climate, as these factors will affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers produce various types of timber sash that can be adapted to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be made to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom dimensions that are compatible with the historic architecture.

Maintenance

Regular inspections, careful redecoration, and prompt repairs can extend the lifespan of windows made of timber. The main cause of decay is moisture leaking through deteriorated paint or putty. This can be avoided by using a quality wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.

Repairs to old sash windows and window frames made of casement must be done with care and with minimal disruption. Repairs can be made to many traditional timber window designs without taking the frame off. This should be done whenever possible. Peeling or loose paint must be removed with care and lightly sanded to improve the 'key' of the surface and allow for an improved adhesion of the new coating. Be careful to avoid stripping old paint layers which might have historical significance and if they are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted.

If a piece of wood is decayed the best way to deal with it is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts designed to match the existing profiles. The wood that is being inserted should be treated with a wood preserver and the joint between the timber cill and the masonry sub-cill should be sealed.

It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, particularly when the installer offers an installation that includes both replacement and removal in one day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make appropriate recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological improvements that don't alter the appearance of a historic building. Those who provide replacement windows should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are deemed acceptable in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable option. It is quite possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-U windows that fit the character of the building originally. This is especially true where windows are situated in listed buildings or conservation areas.