10 Unexpected Cambridge Window Tips
Maintaining Timber Windows
A well-maintained timber window is a crucial element of the historic fabric of a structure. It reflects in different degrees, the materials and techniques of the time period it was constructed, as well as the design and craftsmanship.
If repairs are possible to existing windows are required, they should be made in-situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay can be done using proprietary resin-based systems.
Durability
Timber windows were built to last for hundreds of years. However, they do need to be maintained to ensure they look good and operating correctly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords and retightening pulleys on sash, and painting. window repairs cambridge for enhancing windows made of timber to increase efficiency and energy efficiency is also increasing. This may mean replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window rebates, or installing new cills that allow for better air sealing.
One of the main issues with traditional windows is damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially important where windows with sash are involved since the gaps between the sashes can be quite wide. In these cases, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting to the wood or putty underneath. The rotting process can be made worse due to weather conditions that are poor. To avoid this, windows should be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint that is suitable.
In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded must be repaired using a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the maximum amount of original fabric retained. It is also essential to reduce the number of holes drilled into the frame to allow cable entry as these can let in water and cause decay.
The structural movement of the wall can cause distortions in the frame as well as sash. This can result in sash no longer fitting correctly or sticking or jamming into the opening and broken glazing. This is often corrected by fitting new sash frames constructed of slow-grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed from durable hardwood such as oak to avoid differential movement between the existing and new work.
There are several companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash to fit most existing openings. They are available in various sizes and finishes to fit the needs of modern homeowners. Together with quadruple draught strips and better thermal insulation these sashes can make a a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of your home.
Aesthetics
A lot of 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 made. They could have significant historical value on their own. This is particularly true for early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, where the majority were series openings in structural frames subdivided horizontally by mullions and vertical wood or iron bars to keep out invaders.
Traditional window joinery made from timber is a beautiful feature of a building and is crucial to keep it looking good. It is essential that any decay caused by the penetration of moisture should be immediately stopped once it is recognised. It is recommended to do this by thorough painting, especially if there has been damage or degradation. It is recommended to choose paints that are intended to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish) and to adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for preparation and number coats at each stage.
Wet rot is a typical problem for old timber windows and the best way to stop it growing is to eliminate sections that are damaged or rotten immediately to stop the spread of the fungus that causes it. The replacement of rotting timber must be done with care by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, wherever feasible, the same species as that which is being removed to avoid shifting between the new section and the existing timbers.
Glass became cheaper and more abundant during the late medieval period and into the 17th century. In the process, glazed openings on timber-framed houses became more complex with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and deep cills projecting into the air. In recent times, glass was pinned into frames that were rebated with glazing sprigs instead of lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak, but also allows for more clear glass sheets to be utilized than would have been possible without the use of leaded lights.
Energy efficiency
The traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness and multilayer construction as well as attention to detail. They also have large glass areas as well as deep projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, windows can be made more efficient to increase their energy efficiency. It is essential to keep in mind that these measures need to be considered in relation to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows.
As a result, retaining existing historic windows that are in need of repair rather than replacing them makes sense, particularly when their thermal enhancements can be achieved inexpensively with simple repairs and improvements. Older windows typically have an historic value that shows a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural style. Many people believe that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, they will last for 150, 200, or even 250 years with proper maintenance.
It is important to recognize that decay problems with traditional timber windows can be preventable by prompt and thorough repairs. In addition, it is essential to spot damp penetration issues and to remedy them quickly to prevent serious damage. Early paint deterioration is a concern because it allows moisture to get into the wood, leading to wet rot. This type of damage is typically not noticed until the paintwork is damaged or wavy, but can cause significant structural damage, and could lead to further decay.
A high-quality paint will stop this moisture penetration. It is also important to keep the paintwork in good condition to avoid mould and condensation. Modern synthetic paints can be problematic, as they are often formulated to be water-resistant, and this can lead to the formation of mildew inside the window frame.
The majority of older windows were made from timber that contained a high proportion of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate very quickly when exposed to moist weather, however they can be protected by a thorough treatment of preservative before they are used. It is essential to select the appropriate type of wood for your location and the climate, since these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers make a variety of timber sash that can be adapted to fit specific historic openings. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historical structures.
Maintenance
The life span of windows made from timber can be extended considerably through regular inspections, careful redecoration and prompt repair. The major cause of decay is moisture leaking through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a high-quality 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 minimal disruption. Many of the traditional designs for timber windows can be repaired without dismantling the frame, and this option should be taken whenever feasible. Remove loose or peeling paint and lightly sand the surface to improve the 'key" of the surface. This will allow the new coating to stick better. Be careful to avoid stripping paint layers that might have historical significance, and where these are present, it is recommended that a paint analysis be carried out.
If a piece of wood is decayed the best way to deal with it is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts designed to match the existing profiles. The timber inserts should be treated with a wood preservative, and the joint between masonry sub-cills and timber cill should be sealed.
It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, particularly when the installer provides an 'all-in-one' installation which includes both replacement and removal in one day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows have a thorough understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements as well as other technological upgrades that won't alter 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 the replacements are deemed acceptable in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. It is quite possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-u windows that fit the the building originally. This is especially true where windows are installed in listed buildings or conservation areas.