Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is an important component of a historical building. It reflects in varying degrees, the materials and techniques of the time it was constructed, the architectural style and craftsmanship.

If repairs are possible to existing windows should be done in-situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay can be accomplished with the help of specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were built to last for hundreds of years. However, they need to be maintained to keep them looking good and functioning correctly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables, retightening of pulleys for sash and painting. There is also a growing demand for upgrading timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This could include replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window seal repairs rebates, or installing new cills to improve air seal.

A key problem with traditional windows is damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important when sash windows are concerned as the gaps between sashes can often be very large. In these cases water can get into paint film and cause rotting to the wood or putty beneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the rotting. To prevent this windows from becoming rotten, they must be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas must be repaired using an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure that the highest possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is also important to limit the number of holes that are drilled into the frame to allow cable entry as these can let in water and cause decay.

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

There are a variety of companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash to fit most existing openings. These sash come in various sizes and finishes that meet the requirements of modern-day homeowners. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and a better thermal insulation, these new sash options can make an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a house.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames possess a dazzling aesthetic appeal, since they display, in a certain form, the materials technology, design, and aesthetics of the time they were constructed. They may also have significant historical significance as a set. This is especially true for early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, where the great majority were merely a series of openings within the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions and wood or iron bars to deter intrusions.

It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. It is crucial that any decay resulting from the penetration of moisture should be immediately stopped once it is identified. It is best to do this through thorough painting, especially where there has been damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints that are specifically designed to be used part of the system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and follow the manufacturer's instructions in relation to preparation and number of coats needed at each stage.

Wet rot is a common problem for older timber windows. The best method to stop it from developing is to remove any damaged or rotten sections as soon as possible to stop the spread of the fungus responsible for it. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine) and, if possible, the same kind of timber as the one being removed to prevent the possibility of differential movement.

In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became cheaper and more abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated, with tracery made of wood, moulded mullions and deep projection cills. In recent years, glazing was fixed to rebated frames with glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaks but also allows for much wider and clearer sheets of glass to be used in windows than would otherwise have been possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness and multilayer construction as well as focus on detail. The large glass areas, deep projecting cills and large glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. Windows can be designed to increase their energy efficiency through draughtproofing and secondary glazing. It is important to keep in mind that these measures must be taken into consideration in relation to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.

It makes sense to repair or upgrade existing historic windows rather than replace them, especially when the improvement in thermal efficiency can be achieved by simple repairs. Historic windows are often of historical significance, since they demonstrate a variety in technical development and changes to architectural taste. The pressures to replace such windows are generally based on the assumption that the windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, however most are still in a position to last for 150, 200 or even 250 years, if properly maintained.

It is important to recognize that decay issues associated with traditional timber windows are avoidable with quick and thorough repairs. It is also crucial to recognize damp issues and address them promptly in order to avoid major damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early is a concern because it allows moisture to get into the wood, which can cause wet rot. The damage is usually not noticed until the paintwork is damaged or wavy but it can cause severe structural damage, and could lead to further decay.

A high-quality paint will stop this moisture penetration. To prevent condensation and mould it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. The use of modern synthetic paints can pose a problem because they are usually designed to be water-resistant and this can result in the formation of mildew inside the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed from sapwood-rich timber. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to rain, however they can be protected with an extensive preservation treatment prior to use. It is also essential to ensure that the type of wood used is suited to the location and climate conditions, as these factors affect the durability of the joinery. Local window and door repair near me maintenance (click the up coming document) manufacturers provide a wide range of timber sash which can be made to fit the historic openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to suit historical structures.

Maintenance

Regular inspections as well as careful redecoration and timely repairs can prolong the lifespan of windows made of timber. The primary cause of wood decay is moisture penetration through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a high-quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

Repairs to sash windows that are old and window frames made of casement should be handled with care and minimal disruption. emergency upvc door repairs can be made to many traditional timber window designs without having to remove the frame. This is a must whenever it is possible. Paint that is peeling or loose must be removed with care and lightly sanded to improve the key of the surface, allowing for an easier adhesion of the new coating. It is important to not remove old paint layers, which could have historical significance.

If a portion of wood is rotting, the best solution is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts designed to match existing profiles. The wood that is being inserted should be treated with wood preservative and the joint between the cill for timber and the sub-cill for masonry should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows using PVC-u can be an attractive option, especially when the installer provides a 'one stop shop' installation service that can handle both removal and replacement within a 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 the right recommendations for energy efficiency improvements and other technological upgrades that will not harm the historical character of a building. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved as a suitable option under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can install PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to original building's character. This is particularly relevant when windows are in listed buildings or conservation areas.