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Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained window made of timber is a significant element of the historical fabric of a building. It is a representation of the various materials and techniques design, craftsmanship and aesthetics of the time from which it originates. Whenever possible repairs to existing windows should be made in situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to repair the most damaged areas of decay without removing the entire window. Durability Timber windows were made to last for hundreds of years. They do require maintenance to keep them looking great. Maintenance tasks include sash cord repairs, retightening of pulleys for sash and painting. The demand for enhancing timber windows to improve efficiency in energy use is also growing. This may include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates or installing new cills to improve air seal. One of the major issues with traditional windows is damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly true when sash windows are involved as the gaps between the sashes can be very large. In these circumstances, water can penetrate the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood beneath. The rotting process can be made worse due to weather conditions that are poor. To prevent this from happening, windows should be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint. Corroded areas should be repaired with a resin-based product. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is also necessary to reduce the number of holes you drill into the frame for cable entry since these could let in water and cause decay. The structural movement of the wall can also lead to distortions in the frame and the sash. This can result in sash no longer fitting correctly, sticking or jamming in the opening and cracked glazing. This can be corrected often by fitting new frames for sash made of slow-growing deal (pine), or oak. window repairs cambridge needs to be constructed of a strong hardwood such as oak, to prevent differential movement between new and older work. To reduce the risk to reduce the risk of this happening, there are a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit the needs of modern homeowners. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and a better thermal insulation, these new sash can make significant improvements to the energy efficiency of a house. Aesthetics Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value since they usually illustrate, in some way, the materials and technology and architectural style of the time from which they date. They may also have significant historical value in their own right. This is particularly true of early unglazed window openings in timber framed buildings where the great majority were simply a series of openings within the frame, which were divided horizontally into mullions and iron or wood bars to deter intruders. Traditional window joinery made from timber can be a stunning element of a structure and is crucial to maintain its appearance. As soon as you see any signs of decay due to water penetration, it is important to stop it. It is recommended to do this through thorough painting, especially where there has been damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints that are specifically designed to be used as part of the system (primer, undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines in relation to preparation and number of coats needed at each stage. Wet rot is a common issue in old timber windows and the best way to stop it becoming a problem is to take out sections that are damaged or rotten as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the fungus that causes it. Replace rotting wood with slow-growing deal (pine) and, should it be possible, the same type of timber that is being removed, to avoid differential movement. Glass became more affordable and abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. In the process, the openings for glazed windows on timber-framed houses became more complex with moulded mullions, wooden tracery and cills that protruded deep. In the past, more often, the glass was placed within frames with rebates and then pinned with 'glazing sprigs' rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less susceptible to leaks, but also allows for much wider clearer, more transparent sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would have been possible without the need for leaded lights. Energy efficiency Traditional timber windows have a good energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay meticulous attention to detail. The large glass areas, deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas reduce air infiltration. Windows can be designed to increase their energy efficiency through draughtproofing and secondary glazing. It is essential to keep in mind that these measures must be taken into consideration in relation to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows. It makes sense to fix or upgrade historic windows rather than replace them, especially when the improvements in thermal efficiency can be achieved through simple repairs. Older windows typically have a historical value that illustrates a variety of technical development and changes in architectural style. The pressures to replace such windows are generally based on the assumption that windows that are old will need to be replaced in the near future, but most are still capable of providing service for 150, 200 or even 250 years if properly maintained. It is essential to realize that decay problems with traditional timber windows can be preventable by prompt and thorough repairs. It is also essential to recognize damp issues and fix them quickly so that you can avoid serious damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early could be a problem as it allows moisture to get into the wood, causing wet rot. It is not uncommon for this type of damage to go undetected until the paintwork starts to crack or turn curly. However, it could cause structural damage and then further decay. A good quality paint will stop this moisture penetration. It is also essential to keep the paintwork spotless to avoid condensation and the growth of mould. Modern synthetic paints pose a problem because they are water-resistant and can cause mildew to grow within the window frame. Most older windows were made from sapwood-rich wood. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration quickly when exposed to wet weather, however they can be protected by a thorough preservative treatment before they are used. It is also crucial to ensure that the kind of wood used is suitable to the climate and site conditions, as these elements can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer an array 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 the architectural style of historic buildings. Maintenance Regular inspection carefully redecorated, as well as quick repairs can prolong the life of wooden windows. The main reason for decay is the infiltration of moisture through the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be prevented by careful painting and the use of high-quality wood preservative. Repairs to old sash windows as well as window frames made of casement should be done with care and with minimal disruption. Many traditional timber window designs can be repaired without dismantling the frame, and this method should be used whenever it is feasible. Loose or peeling paint should be removed with care and sanded lightly to increase the 'key' of the surface and allow for a better adhesion of the new coating. It is crucial to not remove old paint layers, which may have historical significance. When a section of wood is decayed the best option is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts designed to match the existing profiles. The timber that is inserted should be treated with a wood preservative. The junction between masonry sub-cill and timber cill should be sealed. It's tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, especially when the installer offers an all-in-one installation that includes removal and replacement within a single day. However, it is essential that the person installing replacement windows has a complete knowledge of the construction and history of traditional wooden frames. This will allow them to make the appropriate recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological upgrades that won't alter the appearance of an historic building. The windows that are replaced must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed acceptable in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable option. It is quite possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-U windows that fit the character of the building originally. This is especially applicable when windows are in listed buildings or conservation areas.