Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is an essential component of a historical building. It demonstrates in various degrees the various materials and techniques, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the time period from which it dates.

If possible, repairs should be made on-site. 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 historical buildings were made to last for hundreds of years. However, they need to be maintained to ensure they look great and working properly. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks are repairs to sash-cords, re-tightening sash pulleys, and painting. There is also a growing demand to upgrade the timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This could include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing tailored window Repair rebates, or installing new cills to improve air seal.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is particularly true when sash windows are involved as the gaps between the sashes can be very large. In these cases water can enter the paint film and cause rotting to the wood or putty underneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the decay. To prevent this from happening, windows should be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

Corroded areas should be repaired using resin-based products. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes that are made into the frame in order to allow cable entry, because they could let in moisture and cause decay.

Another major issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall, which can lead to deformation of the frame and sash. This can lead to sash no longer fitting correctly, sticking or jamming in the opening, and damaged glazing. This can often be fixed by fitting new sash boxes made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be constructed from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to avoid differential movement between the old and new work.

There are now several companies that make Boston pattern wooden sash that fit into the majority of existing openings. They are available in a range of sizes and finishes to suit the requirements of the modern homeowner. These sash are coupled with quadruple draft strips and a more efficient thermal insulation, could make a significant difference to the energy-efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames possess a dazzling aesthetic appeal because they show, in some shape, the materials, technology, and architectural aesthetics of the time they were made. They also may have significant historical value in their own right. This is particularly true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber framed buildings where the great majority were just a collection of openings in the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions and iron or wood bars to keep out intruders.

It is essential to preserve the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. As soon as you see any signs of decay caused by moisture penetration, it is important to stop it. This is best accomplished by a thorough painting process, especially in areas where there has already been damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints that are specifically designed to be used as part of the system (primer, undercoat and finish) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations in terms of preparation and the number of coats needed at each stage.

The fungus responsible for wet rot can quickly spread in old windows made of timber. To prevent this, remove any damaged or rotten components as promptly as you are able to. Replace rotting wood with slow-growing deal (pine) and, when possible, the exact type of wood that is being removed, to avoid the possibility of differential movement.

In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became more affordable and abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed buildings gradually became sophisticated with wooden tracery as well as moulded mullions and projecting cills. In the past, more often, the glass was laid within rebated frames and secured with 'glazing sprigs', rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak and also allows wider sheets of clearer glass to be employed than would be possible without the use of leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows provide an excellent energy performance due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very careful attention to detailing. The large glass areas, the deep projecting cills and large glazing areas reduce air infiltration. With secondary double glazing cambridge and draughtproofing windows can be upgraded to increase their energy efficiency. However it is crucial to remember that such measures should be evaluated in terms of the overall quality and appearance of the window in its original form.

It is sensible to fix or upgrade windows that are older rather than replacing them, especially when the improvements in thermal efficiency can be made through simple repairs. Historic windows are often of historical value, as they reflect a variety of technological advancements and changes to the architectural style. Most people assume that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, many of them are still in service for 150,200, and even 250 years if you take care of maintenance.

It is essential to understand that the decay problems caused by traditional timber windows can be prevented by regular maintenance and timely repairs. It is also crucial to spot damp issues and fix them quickly so that you can avoid 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 issue to go undetected until the paintwork starts to crack or turn wavy. However, it could cause structural damage and lead to further decay.

A good paint will prevent moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. The use of modern synthetic paints can be problematic since they are typically formulated to be water-resistant, which can result in the formation of mildew within the window frame.

The majority of older windows were made from timber that contained an extensive proportion of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to wet weather conditions, but they can be protected with a thorough treatment of preservative before they are put to use. It is crucial to select the right kind of wood for your location and climate, as these factors can affect the durability of the joinery. Local window mechnism repair manufacturers offer various types of timber sash which can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit the architectural style of historic structures.

Maintenance

Regular inspection, careful redecoration, and prompt repairs can extend the life of wooden windows. The most common reason for decay is moisture infiltration through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be prevented by thorough painting and using a good quality wood preservative.

Repairs to old sash windows as well as casement window frames must be done with care and with the least amount of disruption. Repairs can be made to the majority of traditional wooden window designs without removing the frame. This should be done as often as is feasible. Paint that is peeling or loose should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to increase the key of the surface and allow for an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid stripping old paint layers which may have historic value, and where these are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted.

When a piece of wood has begun to decay, the best way to proceed is to eliminate the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to fit the existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with a wood preserver, and the junction between the timber cill and the sub-cill for masonry should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u can be an attractive option, especially when the installer provides an "all-in-one" installation that handles removal and replacement within a day. However, it is crucial that the person who installs windows replacement has a thorough knowledge of the structure and history of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements and other technical improvements that do not alter the historical character of a building. Anyone who installs replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved 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 are sympathetic to the style of the building originally. This is especially relevant when windows are in listed buildings or conservation areas.