10 Cambridge Window-Friendly Habits To Be Healthy
Maintaining Timber Windows
A well-maintained window made of timber is a crucial part of the historic fabric of a building. It is a representation of the materials and technologies, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the time that it was built in.
If repairs are possible to windows that are already in use should be done in situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay can be accomplished by using specialized resin-based systems.
Durability
Timber windows were built to last for centuries. But, they have to be maintained to ensure they look great and working properly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords and retightening pulleys for sash and painting. There is also a growing demand for upgrading timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This could include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates or installing new cills to improve air seal.
One of the main issues with traditional windows is the damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially important when it comes to sash windows because the gaps between sashes can be very large. In these circumstances, water can penetrate the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood beneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the rotting. To stop this from happening windows, they should be regularly painted with a suitable exterior wood paint.
Areas that have been damaged must also be repaired using a resin-based product. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric remains. It is essential to limit the number of holes drilled into the frame to allow cable entry, as these can admit moisture and cause decay.
The wall's structural movement can also lead to deformations in the frame and sash. This could result in the sash not fitting properly, sticking or jamming in the opening, and damaged glazing. This can often be fixed through the installation of new sash boxes that have been made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be made of a durable hardwood, like oak, to avoid shifting between the new and older work.
There are now several companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash to fit into the majority of existing openings. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes that meet the needs of the modern homeowner. These new sash, when combined with quadruple draft strip and a more efficient thermal insulation, could make a huge difference to the efficiency of a home's energy use.
Aesthetics
Many old timber frames have a great aesthetic appeal because they reflect, in some shape, the materials technology, the construction process, and the architectural aesthetics of the time they were built. They may also have significant historical value in their in their own right. This is especially true of early unglazed windows in timber-framed buildings, where the majority of them were series openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions with vertical iron or wood bars to protect against intruders.
Traditional window joinery made of timber can be a highly decorative feature of a building and is essential to keep its appearance. As soon as you see any signs of decay due to water penetration it is crucial to stop it. This is best done by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas that have already suffered damage or degradation. It is best to use paints designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preparation and number coats at each stage.
The fungus responsible for wet rot can spread quickly in old windows made of wood. To prevent this, take out any damaged or rotten parts as quickly as you can. The replacement of rotting wood should be done with care and using slow grown deal (pine) and, whenever possible, the same species as which is being removed to avoid differential movement between the new section and the existing timbers.
Glass became less expensive and more abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. This led to the glazed openings in timber-framed homes were more elaborate, with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and deep cills projecting into the air. repairmywindowsanddoors glazing was increasingly set within rebated frames and secured by 'glazing sprigs' rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less susceptible to leaks, but also allows for larger, clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would otherwise have been possible without the need for lead 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. They also have large glass areas as well as deep projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. The windows can be modified to improve their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. It is crucial to remember that these measures should be taken into consideration in relation to the overall integrity and look of the original windows.
As a result, retaining the existing windows from the past that are in need of repair instead of replacing them makes sense particularly when thermal improvements can be achieved economically through simple repairs and upgrades. Older windows are usually considered to be of historical value because they reflect a variety of technological advancement and changes in architectural style. Many people believe that the windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, many of them are still in service for 150, 200 or even 250 years if they are maintained with proper maintenance.
It is crucial to recognize that the decay issues associated with traditional timber windows can be avoided through regular maintenance and prompt repairs. It is also important to recognize damp issues and correct them swiftly in order to avoid major damage. Early deterioration of paint is a major problem as it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this type of damage to go unnoticed until the paintwork begins to crack or becomes curly. However, it could cause structural damage and lead to further decay.
A high-quality paint will prevent this moisture penetration. It is also necessary to keep the paintwork clean to avoid mould and condensation. The use of modern synthetic paints can be problematic since they are typically made to be water-resistant and this may cause the growth of mildew within the window frame.
The majority of older windows were manufactured from timber containing a high proportion of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to wet weather, however they can be protected by a thorough treatment of preservative before they are used. It is crucial to select the appropriate type of wood for your location and climate, as these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer an array of timber sash which can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be made according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom sizes that fit with historic buildings.
Maintenance
Regular inspection, careful redecoration, and quick repairs can prolong the life of timber windows. The most common reason for the decay is the infiltration of moisture through the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a good wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.
Repairs to sash windows that are old and frameless casement windows should be done with care and with minimal disruption. It is possible to fix several traditional designs of timber windows without having to remove the frame. This is a must whenever it is possible. Remove peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the surface to improve the 'key" of the surface. This will enable the new coating to adhere better. It is important to not remove old paint layers, which may have historical value.
If a piece of timber 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 wood preservative, 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 a tempting option, especially when the installer provides a 'one stop shop' installation service that can handle removal and replacement within one day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and construction 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 affect the appearance of a building that is historic. The windows that are replaced should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved as a suitable solution under Building Regulations. It is, of course, possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-u windows that match the character of the building originally. This is particularly true where the windows are located in listed buildings or conservation areas.