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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained and maintained timber window is a crucial part of the historic fabric of a building. It reflects in different degree the technology and materials of the time it was constructed, the architectural style and craftsmanship.

If upvc repairs near me are possible to existing windows are required, they should be carried out in-situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to fix the most deteriorated areas without having to remove the entire window.

Durability

Timber windows were built to last hundreds of years. However, they do need to be maintained to ensure they look great and working correctly. Maintenance tasks include sash cord repairs and retightening sash pulleys and painting. The demand for upgrading timber windows to improve efficiency and energy efficiency is also increasing. This could mean replacing old glass units, repairing existing window rebates or putting in new cills that allow for better air sealing.

The corrosion of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is particularly true when sash windows are involved as the gaps between the sashes can be very wide. In these situations water can get into the paint film and cause decay of the putty and the wood underneath. The weather can be a factor in accelerating the rotting. To avoid this windows from becoming rotten, they must be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

The areas that are damaged should also be repaired using a resin-based product. This will ensure that the greatest amount of original fabric is retained. It is essential to limit the number of holes that are created into the frame in order to allow cable entry, since they can let in moisture and cause decay.

Another major issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall that could cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can result in sash no longer fitting correctly, sticking or jamming in the opening, and damaged glazing. Often this can be corrected by the fitting of new sash boxes made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed of a strong hardwood such as oak, in order to prevent any differential movement between new and old work.

To help reduce this problem to reduce the risk of this happening, there are a number of companies who make Boston pattern sash made of wood that can be fitted into most openings. They are available in various sizes and finishes that suit the needs of modern homeowners. Together with quadruple draught strips and improved thermal insulation, these new sash options can make a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value as they often illustrate, in some way the materials and technologies and architectural style of the time in when they were built. They also may have a significant historic value in their in their own right. This is especially true for early unglazed window openings in timber-framed buildings, which were just a collection of openings within the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions and vertical iron or wood bars to deter intrusions.

Traditional window joinery made from timber can be a stunning feature of a building and is crucial to maintain its appearance. As soon as you see any signs of decay due to moisture penetration it is crucial to stop it. This is best done by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas where there has already been damage or deterioration. It is recommended to choose paints that are intended to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish) and to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number coats at each stage.

The fungus responsible for wet rot can quickly spread in old timber windows. To prevent this, take out any damaged or rotten components as promptly as you are able to. The replacement of wood that is rotting must be done with care by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, wherever feasible, the same species as that which is being removed in order to prevent differential movement between the new section and existing timbers.

In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became more affordable and abundant, so that the glazed openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated with wooden sliding doors cambridge tracery moulded mullions, moulded mullions, and deep protruding cills. In recent years, glass was fixed into frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less prone to leaking but it can allow for much wider clearer, more transparent sheets of glass to be used in windows than would be possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

The traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness, multilayer construction and attention to detail. The large glass areas, deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas reduce air infiltration. The windows can be modified to increase their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However it is essential to remember that such measures should be viewed in the context of the overall quality and appearance of the original window.

It is logical to fix or upgrade historic windows rather than replace them, especially when the improvement in thermal efficiency can be achieved through simple fixes. The windows of the past often have a historical value that demonstrates a range of technical development and changes in architectural style. The pressure to replace these windows are usually based on the assumption that windows that are old will need to be replaced in the near future, but they are in a position to last for 150, 200 or even 250 years if they are properly maintained.

It is important to recognise that the decay issues caused by traditional windows made of timber can be avoided by thorough maintenance and timely repairs. In addition it is crucial to spot damp penetration issues and fix them promptly to prevent serious damage. Early paint deterioration is a major issue, because it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go undetected until the paintwork begins to crack or becomes wavier. However, it can cause structural damage and lead to further decay.

A good quality paint will stop this moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as it can be. Modern synthetic paints pose a problem since they are usually water-resistant and may cause mildew to grow in the window frame.

The majority of older windows were constructed of sapwood-rich timber. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to rain, but they can be protected by a thorough preservation treatment before use. It is crucial to select the appropriate type of wood for the site and climate, as these factors will affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers create various types of timber sash that can be customized to fit specific historic openings. They can be made to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom sizes that fit with historic buildings.

Maintenance

The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended through regular inspections carefully redecoration, and timely repair. The primary cause of wood decay is the penetration of moisture through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by careful painting and using an excellent wood preservative.

Repairs to old sash windows and casement window frames must be done with care and minimal disruption. Many of the traditional designs for timber windows can be repaired without removing the frame, and this approach should be used whenever it is feasible. Peeling or loose paint must be removed with care and sanded lightly to increase the key of the surface, allowing for an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid stripping old paint layers that could have historical value and if they are present it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted.

Where a section of timber is rotten, the best way to proceed is to remove the rotted material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to fit the existing profiles. The timber that is inserted should be treated using wood preservative. The junction between masonry sub-cills and timber cill should be sealed.

It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC U, particularly when the installer offers an 'all-in-one' installation which includes removal and replacement in one day. It is crucial that the person who installs replacement windows has a complete understanding of the construction and history of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technical improvements that will not harm the historic character of a building. Those who provide replacement windows must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed as a suitable option under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u windows that are suited to the original building's style. This is especially true when windows are situated in listed buildings or conservation areas.