Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is a significant element of the historical structure of a building. It reflects in varying degree the materials and techniques of the time it was made, the craftsmanship and architectural taste.

Whenever possible upvc window renovation repairs (https://Ideapain9.werite.net) to windows that are already in use should be made in-situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay can be done with the help of specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

The windows made of wood in many old buildings were made to last for a long time. But, they have to be maintained to keep them looking good and operating correctly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords and retightening pulleys on sash, and painting. The need to upgrade timber windows in order to improve efficiency in energy use is also growing. This could mean replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates or putting in new cills for improved air sealing.

A key problem with traditional windows is the damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially important in the case of sash windows, as the gaps between sashes can be very large. In these situations water may get through the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood beneath. The rotting may be further aggravated by weather conditions that are not ideal. To avoid this windows, they should be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas should be repaired with an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure that the greatest amount of original fabric preserved. It is essential to limit the number of holes that are created into the frame to allow cable entry as these can admit moisture and cause decay.

Another issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall which can lead to deformation of the frame and the sash. This can lead to sash not fitting correctly jamming, sticking or sagging in the opening, and even broken glass. Most often, this is corrected by the fitting of new sash boxes made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be made from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to avoid differential movement between the existing and new work.

To alleviate this issue, there are now a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern sash made of wood that can be fitted into most openings. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes that meet the requirements of the modern homeowner. These new sash, when combined with quadruple draft strip and improved thermal insulation can significantly improve the efficiency of your home's energy usage.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value since they usually demonstrate, in a way the materials and techniques and architectural style of the period from when they were built. They also may have a significant historic value in their own right. This is especially true of early unglazed windows in timber-framed buildings, in which the majority of them were series of openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions and vertical iron or wood bars in order to keep out intrusions.

Traditional window joinery made from timber is a beautiful feature of a building and is essential to keep its appearance. As soon as you see any decay caused by moisture penetration, it is important to stop it. It is best to do this with thorough painting, especially where there is damage or degradation. It is advisable to use paints that are specifically designed to be used part of a system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines in relation to preparation and the number of coats needed at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot can spread quickly in old windows made of wood. To prevent this, remove any rotten or damaged parts as soon as you can. The replacement of wood that is rotting should be done with care and with a slow-growing deal (pine) and, wherever possible using the same species as that which is being removed in order to prevent shifting between the new section and existing timbers.

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 double glazed door repairs openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more elegant with wooden tracery as well as moulded mullions and protruding cills. The double glazing repairs was increasingly set within rebated frames and then pinned with 'double glazing seal repairs sprigs', rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the cambridge windows less likely to leak, but also allows for larger sheets of glass to be used than would have been feasible without the use of lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows provide a good energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay careful attention to detailing. The large glass areas, deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas minimize air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, windows can be upgraded to improve their energy efficiency. However it is essential to keep in mind that any such measures should be viewed in relation to the overall quality and appearance of the window in its original form.

It makes sense to fix or upgrade windows that are older rather than replacing them, particularly when improvements in energy efficiency can be made through simple repairs. Historic windows often have a historical value that demonstrates a range of technical development and changes in architectural style. The pressures to replace such windows are generally based on the assumption that windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, but most are still in a position to last for 150, 200 or even 250 years if properly maintained.

It is crucial to recognize that the decay issues caused by traditional timber windows can be prevented by thorough maintenance and swift repairs. Additionally it is crucial to identify damp penetration problems and address them swiftly to avoid serious damage. The early deterioration of paint can be a problem because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, leading to wet rot. It is not uncommon for this issue to go unnoticed until the paintwork begins to crack or become curly. However, it could cause structural damage and lead to further decay.

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

Most older windows were made from sapwood-rich wood. These timbers can deteriorate very rapidly if exposed to wet weather, but can be preserved with a thorough preservative treatment before they are used. It is crucial to select the appropriate type of wood for the location and climate, as these variables can affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers create a variety of timber sash that can be adapted to fit specific openings from the past. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to suit historic buildings.

Maintenance

The life span of windows made from timber can be extended significantly by regular inspection, careful redecoration and prompt repair. The major cause of decay is moisture penetration through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by using a quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

Repairs to old sash windows as well as window frames made of casement should be done with care and with the least amount of disruption. Repairs can be made to many traditional timber window designs without removing the frame. This should be done as often as is feasible. Loose or peeling paint should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to improve the 'key' of the surface, allowing for an easier adhesion of the new coating. It is essential to not remove old paint layers, which may have historical significance.

If a piece of timber is rotten, the best way to proceed is to take out the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to match existing profiles. The wood that is inserted should be treated with a wood preserver and the joint between the timber cill and sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u may be an appealing option, particularly when the installer provides a 'one stop shop' installation that handles both removal and replacement within one day. However, it is essential that the person installing replacement windows has a complete understanding of the construction and history of traditional wooden frames. This will allow them to make the right suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technical upgrades that will not harm the character of a historic building. Those who provide replacement windows should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure that replacement windows are deemed to be approved in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. It is certainly possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-u windows that match the character of the original building. This is particularly true where the windows are located in listed buildings or conservation areas.