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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is an important element of the historic fabric of a building. It demonstrates in various degrees the different materials and technologies as well as the craftsmanship and architectural style of the time from which it dates.

If possible, upvc repairs near me should be made in-situ. Repairing the worst areas of decay can be done by using specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were made to last for centuries. However, they need to be maintained to ensure that they look good and operating correctly. Maintenance tasks include upvc repairs to sash cables as well as tightening the pulleys on sash, and painting. The need to upgrade timber windows in order to improve energy efficiency is also growing. This could mean replacing old glass units, repairing existing window rebates or putting in new cills that allow the air to seal better.

One of the major issues with traditional windows is the damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important when sash windows are concerned because the gaps between sashes can often be very large. In these situations water may get through the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and underlying wood. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the decay. To prevent this from happening, windows need to be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded must be repaired using the help of a resin-based ventilation repair cambridgeshire solution. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric remains. It is also necessary to limit the number of holes drilled into the frame for cable entry as these can admit water and lead to decay.

Another significant problem with older windows is structural movement in the wall which can lead to deformation of the frame and sash. This could result in the sash not fitting properly and jamming or sticking to the opening, and damaged glazing. This is often corrected by fitting new sash frames made of slow-growing deal (pine), or oak. The cill must be constructed from durable hardwood such as oak to avoid differential movement between the old and new work.

There are several companies that make Boston pattern wooden windows and doors cambridge Sash window repair cambridge to fit most existing openings. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes that meet the requirements of the modern homeowner. Together with quadruple draught strips and a better thermal insulation, these new sash options can make an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value as they often demonstrate, in a way the materials and techniques and architectural taste of the period from which they date. They could 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 buildings, which were simply a series of openings within the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions and vertical wood or iron bars to keep out invaders.

Traditional window joinery made of timber can be a highly decorative aspect of a building, and it is important to keep its appearance. As soon as you notice any signs of decay caused by the penetration of moisture it is essential to stop it. It is best to do this through thorough painting, especially if there has been damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints specifically designed to be used part of the system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines in terms of preparation and the amount of coats required at each stage.

Wet rot is a frequent issue in older timber windows. The best method to stop it from developing is to remove any damaged or rotten parts as soon as possible to stop the spread of the fungus responsible for it. The replacement of rotting timber should be carefully undertaken using slow grown deal (pine) and, whenever possible, the same species as which is being removed to avoid differential movement between the new section and the existing timbers.

Glass became less expensive and more abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. As a result, the openings for glazed windows on timber-framed houses became more complicated with moulded mullions, tracery made of wood and deep cills projecting into the air. In recent years, glass was pinned into frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak, but also allows for larger sheets of glass to be used than would have been possible otherwise without the use of led lights.

Energy efficiency

The traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction, as well as their focus on particulars. The large glass areas, the deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. Windows can be designed to improve their energy efficiency by draught-proofing and secondary glazing. It is essential to remember that these measures should be taken into consideration when it comes to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.

Therefore, keeping old windows that require repair instead of replacing them is logical especially when their thermal enhancements can be achieved inexpensively with simple repairs and improvements. Older windows typically have an historic value that demonstrates a range of technological advancement and changes in architectural taste. Many people believe that these windows will have to be replaced in the near future. However, they will last for 150,200, and even 250 years if they are maintained with proper maintenance.

It is important to recognise that the decay issues associated with traditional timber windows can be prevented by thorough maintenance and prompt repairs. It is also essential to recognize damp issues and fix them quickly to avoid major damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early can be a problem because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, causing wet rot. The damage is usually not noticed until the paintwork is cracking or wavy but it can cause severe structural damage, and could lead to further decay.

A high-quality paint will stop this moisture from entering. To prevent condensation and mould it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. Modern synthetic paints pose a problem because they are often water-resistant and may cause mildew to develop within the window frame.

The majority of older windows were constructed from sapwood-rich timber. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration quickly when exposed to wet weather conditions, but they can be protected with an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are put to use. It is also important to ensure that the type of wood used is suited to the climate and site conditions, as these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide various types of sash made from timber that can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be made to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom sizes that fit with the historic architecture.

Maintenance

Regular inspections, careful redecoration, and timely repairs can prolong the life of timber windows. The main reason for the decay is the infiltration of moisture through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be avoided by using a good wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

It is essential that repairs to old sash and casement windows are done correctly and completed without causing any disturbance. Many traditional timber window designs are repairable without removing the frame, and this method should be used whenever it is feasible. Peeling or loose paint should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to increase the key of the surface, allowing for an easier adhesion of the new coating. It is crucial to not remove old paint layers, as they may have historical value.

When a section of wood is rotting the best option is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts designed to match the existing profiles. The wood that is inserted should be treated with wood preservative, and the junction between the timber cill and the masonry sub-cill should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u may be an appealing option, particularly when the installer offers an "all-in-one" installation service that can handle removal and replacement in the span of a day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological improvements that don't affect the appearance of a historic building. The window installers who provide replacement windows must be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that replacement windows are deemed to be approved under Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to the original character of the building. This is especially true when windows are situated in listed buildings or conservation areas.