Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is a significant element of the historic fabric of a building. It reflects, in various degrees, the materials and technologies of the time period it was constructed, the design and craftsmanship.

If repairs are possible to existing windows should be carried out in situ. Repairing the worst areas of decay can be done using proprietary resin-based systems.

Durability

The windows made of wood in many old structures were designed to last for centuries. They require regular maintenance to keep them looking great. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks are repairs to sash-cords and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. The demand for upgrading windows made of timber to increase efficiency and energy efficiency is also increasing. This can involve replacing old glass units, repairing existing window seal replacement near me rebates or putting in new cills that allow the air to seal better.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is particularly true when windows with sash are involved since the gaps between the sashes can be quite wide. In these instances water can get into the paint film and cause decay of the putty and the wood beneath. The weather can be a factor in accelerating the decay. To stop this from happening, windows should be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded must be repaired using an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure the maximum amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is also essential to minimise the number of holes drilled into the frame to allow cable entry since these could let in water and cause decay.

Another significant problem with older windows is structural movement in the wall, which could cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and even broken glass. Often this can be corrected by fitting new sash boxes constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed of a durable hardwood, like oak, to avoid shifting between the new and old work.

To help reduce this problem to reduce the risk of this happening, there are several companies that make 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 that meet the needs of the modern homeowner. Combined with quadruple draught strips and improved thermal insulation, these new sash options can make an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of your home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value since they usually illustrate, in some way the materials and techniques and architectural style of the time in which they originate. They also may have a significant historic value in their individual cases. This is particularly true for windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed buildings, in which the majority were series openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions, and vertically by wood or iron bars in order to protect against intruders.

Traditional Louvred window Repair joinery made from timber is a beautiful element of a structure and is essential to maintain its appearance. As soon as you see any signs of decay due to moisture penetration it is crucial to stop it. It is best to do this by thorough painting, particularly if there has been damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints that are specifically designed to be used part of a system (primer, undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines regarding preparation and the amount of coats needed at each stage.

Wet rot is a frequent problem for older timber windows. The best way to stop it 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 rotting wood with slow-growing deal (pine), and when possible, the exact type of wood as the one that is being removed, to avoid differential movement.

Glass became less expensive and more abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. As a result, glazed openings on timber-framed houses became more complex with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and deep projecting cills. In recent years, glazing was fixed to rebated frames with glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak, but also allows for wider sheets of clearer glass to be utilized than would have been possible without the use of lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows have an excellent energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay attentive attention to detail. The large glass surfaces, the deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas minimize air infiltration. The windows can be modified to improve their energy efficiency through draughtproofing and secondary glazing. However, it is important to keep in mind that these measures must be considered in the context of the overall integrity and appearance of the window in its original form.

Therefore, keeping existing historic windows that are in need of upvc door repair rather than replacing them is logical particularly when thermal enhancements can be made cost-effectively through simple repairs and improvements. Historic windows often have an historic value that demonstrates a range of technical development and changes in architectural taste. The pressures to replace these windows are generally based on the assumption that the windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, but most are still capable of providing service for 150, 200 or even 250 years, if properly maintained.

It is crucial to understand that decay issues with traditional timber windows are easily prevented with timely and thorough repairs. Additionally, it is essential to spot damp penetration issues and address them swiftly to prevent 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 type of damage to go unnoticed until the paintwork begins to crack or becomes wavier. However, it could cause structural damage and further decay.

A high-quality paint will prevent this moisture from entering. It is also necessary to keep the paintwork clean in order to prevent condensation and mould growth. The use of modern synthetic paints could be a problem since they are typically formulated to be water-resistant, which can cause the growth of mildew in the window frame.

The majority of older windows were made from timber that contained an extensive proportion of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate quickly when exposed to rain, but they can be protected with a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is crucial to select the right kind of wood for the location and climate, as these variables can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide various types of timber sash which can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be constructed according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to specific sizes that are in keeping with the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance

The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended considerably through regular inspections as well as a careful redecoration and timely repair. The major cause of decay is moisture leaking through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by using a high-quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

It is important that repairs to old sash and casement windows are well executed and done without causing any disturbance. It is possible to fix many traditional timber upvc window and door repairs designs without removing the frame. This should be done whenever possible. Remove any peeling or loose paint and then lightly sand the surface to improve the "key" of the surface. This will allow the new coating to adhere better. It is important to avoid removing old paint layers, as they could have historical significance.

When a piece of wood has begun to decay, the best course of action is to remove the rotted material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to match existing profiles. The timber inserts should be treated using 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 if the installer offers an all-in-one installation that includes both replacement and removal in one day. It is important that the installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make appropriate suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technological upgrades that do not alter the historic character of a building. The window installers who provide replacement windows must be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved as a suitable solution under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to original building's character. This is particularly true where windows are installed in listed buildings or conservation areas.