10 Cambridge Window-Related Projects To Stretch Your Creativity
Maintaining Timber Windows
A well-maintained window made of timber is a significant element of the historic structure of a building. It demonstrates in various degrees the different materials and technologies design, craftsmanship and aesthetics of the time from which it dates.
When possible, repairs should be made in-situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to fix the most damaged areas of decay without removing the whole window.
Durability
Timber windows were designed to last for hundreds of years. However, they need to be maintained to ensure they look good and functioning properly. The most frequent maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. The demand for enhancing timber windows to increase efficiency in energy use is also growing. This can involve replacing old glass units, repairing existing window rebates or putting up new cills for better air sealing.
The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is particularly important when sash windows are involved as the gaps between sashes can be very wide. In these situations water can enter the paint film and cause rotting to the wood or putty underneath. The rotting can be exacerbated by weather conditions that are not ideal. To stop this from happening, windows should be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.
The areas that are damaged should be repaired using a resin-based product. This will ensure that the highest possible amount of the original fabric remains. It is also essential to reduce the number of holes you drill into the frame for cable entry, as they could allow water in and cause decay.
The structural movement of the wall could also cause deformations in the frame and sash. This could result in the sash not fitting properly, sticking or jamming in the opening and cracked glazing. Most often, this is corrected through the installation of new sash boxes that have been constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be made from durable hardwood such as oak to avoid any movement between the old and new work.
To reduce the risk to reduce the risk of this happening, there are a number of companies who make Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in a variety of sizes and finishes that meet the requirements of modern homeowners. The new sash, combined with quadruple draft strips and a better thermal insulation, can significantly improve the efficiency of your home's energy usage.
Repair My Windows And Doors have a high aesthetic value since they usually demonstrate, in a way the materials and techniques and architectural style of the time in when they were built. They may also have significant historical value in their in their own right. This is especially true for early unglazed window openings in timber-framed structures, where the great majority were simply a series of openings within the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into iron or wood bars to deter intrusions.
Traditional window joinery made from timber can be a highly decorative aspect of a building, and is essential to keep it looking good. It is vital that any decay resulting from the penetration of moisture should be immediately stopped once it is discovered. This is best done by a thorough painting process, especially in areas in which there is already damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish) and to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preparation and number of coats at each stage.
Wet rot is a common problem in old timber windows and the best way to stop it becoming a problem is to take out sections that are damaged or rotten as soon as you can to stop the spread of the fungus responsible for it. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine) and, if possible, the same type of wood as the one being removed, to prevent the possibility of differential movement.
In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became cheaper and more abundant, so that the glazed openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated with wooden tracery moulded mullions, moulded mullions, and deep protruding cills. In recent years, glass was fixed into rebated frames with glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak and also allows wider sheets of clearer glass to be used than would have been possible otherwise without the use of leaded lights.
Energy efficiency
Traditional timber windows offer excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very meticulous attention to detail. They also have large glass areas and projecting cills that minimise air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, the windows can be improved to increase their energy efficiency. However, it is important to keep in mind that these measures should be viewed in relation to the overall quality and appearance of the original window.
So, retaining the existing windows from the past that are in need of repair instead of replacing them makes sense especially when their thermal enhancements can be made cost-effectively through simple repairs and upgrades. Older windows are usually considered to be of historical value because they show a range in technological advancements and changes to architectural style. The pressures to replace such windows are typically based on the assumption that windows that are old will need to be replaced in the near future, however the majority of them are capable of serving for 150, 200 and even 250 years, if properly maintained.
It is essential to realize that decay issues associated with traditional timber windows are preventable by prompt and thorough repairs. In addition, it is essential to recognize damp penetration issues and address them swiftly to avoid major damage. Early paint deterioration is a concern because it allows moisture to get into the wood, causing wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go undetected until the paintwork starts to crack or turn wavy. However, it could cause structural damage and further decay.
A high-quality paint will stop this moisture penetration. It is also important to keep the paintwork spotless in order to prevent condensation and mould growth. Modern synthetic paints could be a problem because they are usually made to be water-resistant and this may lead to the formation of mildew in the window frame.
The majority of older windows were constructed from timber with a high proportion of sapwood. These timbers deteriorate quickly if exposed to rain, however they can be preserved with an extensive preservation treatment prior to use. It is also important to ensure that the type of wood used is suited to the site and climate conditions, since these factors affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer an array of timber sash which can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historical buildings.
Maintenance
The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended by regular inspection carefully redecoration, and timely repair. The primary cause of wood decay is the penetration of moisture through deteriorated paint or putty. This can be avoided with careful painting and the use of an excellent wood preservative.
Repairs to old sash windows as well as casement window frames should be done with care and with the least amount of disruption. Many of the traditional designs for timber windows are repairable without removing the frame, and this method should be taken 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. Care should be taken to avoid stripping paint layers that could have historical value and if they are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted.
Where a section of timber has become rotten the best way to proceed is to eliminate the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to match existing profiles. The timber that is inserted should be treated with wood preservative and 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 removal and replacement in one day. It is, however, essential that the person installing replacement windows has a complete knowledge 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 a building that is historic. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are deemed acceptable by the Building Regulations as a suitable option. It is quite possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-U windows that are sympathetic to the style of the building originally. This is especially true when the windows are in listed buildings or conservation areas.