15 Cambridge Window Benefits Everyone Needs To Be Able To

Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is an essential component of a historical building. It reflects, in various levels, the technology and materials of the time it was constructed, as well as the architectural style and craftsmanship.

When repairs are feasible to existing windows should be carried out in-situ. Repairing the most deteriorated areas of decay is possible with the help of specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last for centuries. However, they do need to be maintained to ensure they look good and functioning properly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords and retightening sash pulleys and painting. There is a growing need to upgrade timber windows to increase the efficiency of energy. This may include replacing old glazing units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills for improved air seal.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is particularly true when windows made of sash are involved because the gaps between sashes can be quite large. In these situations, water can penetrate the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and underlying wood. The rotting can be exacerbated by weather conditions that are not ideal. To stop this from happening, windows need to be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

Areas that have been damaged must be repaired with a resin-based product. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric is retained. It is also necessary to reduce the number of holes drilled into the frame to allow cable entry, as they could allow water in and cause decay.

Another major issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall which can cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly, sticking or jamming in the opening and broken glazing. This is often corrected by fitting new sash frames made of slow-grown deal (pine), or oak. The cill needs to be constructed of a durable hardwood, like oak, to prevent shifting between the new and older work.

There are a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash that fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in a variety of sizes and finishes that meet the needs of today's homeowner. These sash are 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 high aesthetic value since they usually show, in a particular way, the materials and technology and architectural style of the time in which they date. They may also have significant historical value in their in their own right. This is especially true for early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed structures, which were simply a series of openings in the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions and vertical wood or iron bars to keep out invaders.

It is crucial to maintain the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. As soon as you see any signs of decay due to water penetration, it is important to stop it. This is best accomplished by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas in which there is already damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints that are designed to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish) and to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number of coats at each stage.

Wet rot is a frequent issue in older timber windows. The best method to stop it from becoming a problem is to take out any damaged or rotten sections as soon as possible to stop the spread of the fungus that causes it. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine), and when possible, the exact type of timber that is being removed, to avoid the possibility of 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 glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became elegant with wooden tracery as well as moulded mullions and protruding cills. In recent times, glass was fixed into frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak and break, but also allows larger sheets of glass to be used than would have been possible without the use of led lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows have a good energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction, as well as careful attention to detailing. The large glass areas, the deep projecting cills and large glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. The windows can be made to improve their energy efficiency through draughtproofing and secondary glazing. However it is essential to remember that such measures should be evaluated in terms of the overall quality and appearance of the original window.

Therefore, keeping old windows that require repair instead of replacing them is sensible, particularly when their thermal improvements can be achieved economically through simple repairs and upgrades. The windows that are historic have a lot of historical significance, since they show a range in technical development and changes to the architectural style. Most people think that the windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, most will last for 150, 200, or even 250 years if you take care of maintenance.

It is essential to understand that the decay problems caused by traditional windows made of timber can be avoided through regular maintenance and swift repairs. It is also important to identify damp problems and fix them quickly in order to avoid major damage. Early paint deterioration is a major 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 becomes wavier. However, it could cause structural damage and lead to further decay.

A good quality paint will prevent this moisture from entering. To prevent mould and condensation it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. The use of modern synthetic paints can pose a problem, as they are often made to be water-resistant and this may lead to the formation of mildew within the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed from timber with an extensive proportion of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if 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 timber used is well-suited to the climate and site conditions, as these elements will influence the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers produce a variety of timber sash that can be tailored to fit specific historic openings. They can be built according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that are in keeping with historic buildings.

Maintenance

Regular inspections, careful redecoration, and quick repairs can prolong the lifespan of windows made of timber.  RepairMyWindowsAndDoors  for decay is moisture infiltration through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be prevented by using a high-quality wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.

Repairs to old sash windows and casement window frames should be handled with care and with minimal disruption. Repairs can be made to the majority of traditional wooden window designs without removing the frame. This is a must whenever it is possible. Loose or peeling paint should be removed with care and lightly sanded to improve the  key of the surface and allow for an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is crucial to not remove old paint layers, which may have historical significance.

Where a section of timber is rotten, the best option is to eliminate the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with a wood preserver and the joint between the timber cill and sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.

It can be tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, especially when the installer provides an  all-in-one installation that includes both removal and replacement within a single day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make appropriate recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological upgrades that won't harm the character of a historic building. Those who provide replacement windows must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme like as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are approved in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. It is, of course, possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-u windows that fit the style of the building originally. This is particularly true where windows are situated in listed buildings or conservation areas.