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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained and maintained timber window is a crucial element of the historical structure of a building. It illustrates in varying degrees the various materials and techniques as well as the craftsmanship and architectural style of the time that it was built in.

Whenever possible repairs to existing windows should be made in situ. The repair system that is based on resin can be used to repair the most deteriorated areas without having to remove the entire window.

Durability

Timber windows were made to last for centuries. They do require some maintenance to keep them looking good. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. There is a growing need to upgrade the timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This could mean replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates, or installing new cills for better air sealing.

A key problem with traditional windows is damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork.  RepairMyWindowsAndDoors  is particularly true when windows made of sash are involved because the gaps between sashes can be extremely wide. In these instances water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood underneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the rotting. To avoid this windows, they should be painted regularly using a suitable exterior wood paint.

Areas that have been damaged must be repaired with a resin-based product. This will ensure that the highest possible amount of the original fabric is retained. It is also essential to reduce the number of holes you drill into the frame for cable entry since these could let in water and cause decay.

Another issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall that can lead to deformation of the frame and the sash. This could result in the sash not fitting properly and jamming or sticking to the opening, and damaged glazing. This can often be fixed through the installation of new sash boxes that have been constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed from a sturdy hardwood, such as oak, to prevent shifting between the new and older work.

There are now several companies that make Boston pattern wooden sash to fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in a range of sizes and finishes to meet the needs of today's homeowner. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and a better thermal insulation, these new sash options can make an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old wooden windows have an excellent aesthetic value since they usually demonstrate, in a way the materials and techniques and architectural taste of the period from which they date. They also may have a significant historical significance in their own right. This is especially true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed structures, which were merely a series of openings in the frame, which were divided horizontally into mullions and wood or iron bars to deter intruders.

It is essential to preserve the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. When you spot any signs of decay due to moisture penetration it is crucial to stop it. It is recommended to do this by thorough painting, particularly if there is damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints that are specifically designed to be used part of a system (primer undercoat, finish) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding preparation and number of coats required at each stage.

Wet rot is a typical problem for old timber windows and the best method to stop it from becoming a problem is to take out sections that are damaged or rotten immediately to prevent the spread of the fungus that causes it. The replacement of wood that is rotting should be done with care and by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, wherever feasible using the same species as that which is being removed to avoid differential movement between the new section and the existing timbers.

In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became less expensive and more plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more 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 pinned in with 'glazing sprigs', rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak, but also allows for larger sheets of glass to be utilized than would have been possible otherwise without the use of led lights.

Energy efficiency

The traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction as well as focus on particulars. The large glass areas, the deep projection cills and wide glazing areas reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, the windows can be improved to improve their energy efficiency. It is important to remember that these measures should be taken into consideration in relation to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.

As a result, retaining the existing windows from the past that are in need of repair instead of replacing them is logical, particularly when their thermal improvements can be achieved cost-effectively through simple repairs and improvements. Historic windows often have a historical value that illustrates a variety of technological advancement and changes in architectural style. Most people assume that these windows will have to be replaced in the near future. However, most can still provide service for 150, 200 or even 250 years if you take care of maintenance.

It is essential to realize that decay problems with traditional timber windows are preventable by timely and thorough repairs. It is also essential to spot damp issues and fix them quickly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint is a concern because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, causing wet rot. This damage is often not apparent until the paintwork becomes damaged or wavy however, it can cause serious structural damage and can lead to further decay.

A good quality paint will prevent this moisture from entering. To prevent condensation and mould it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints can be problematic since they are typically designed to be water-resistant and this may result in the formation of mildew inside the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed of sapwood-rich timber. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to wet weather, however they can be protected with a thorough preservative treatment before they are used. It is also essential to ensure that the kind of wood used is suitable to the climate and site conditions, as these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer an array of sash timbers that can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be built according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that are in keeping with historic buildings.

Maintenance

The life of timber windows can be extended significantly by regular inspection carefully redecoration, and timely repair. The primary reason for the decay is the infiltration of moisture through the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be prevented by using a good wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

Repairs to old sash windows as well as casement window frames must be done with care and with the least amount of disruption. Many traditional timber window designs are repairable without removing the frame, and this approach should be followed whenever feasible. Remove any peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the surface to improve the "key" of the surface. This will allow the new coating to adhere better. It is crucial to not remove old paint layers, as they may have historical value.

When a piece of wood has begun to decay, 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 junction between the timber cill and the masonry sub-cill should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows using PVC-u is a tempting option, especially when the installer provides a 'one stop shop' installation that handles removal and replacement within one day. It is, however, vital that the installer of windows replacement has a thorough understanding of the construction and history of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements as well as other technological improvements that don't harm the character of an historic building. Those who provide replacement windows must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are approved in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u windows that conform to the original building's style. This is particularly true where windows are installed in listed buildings and conservation areas.