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Maintaining Timber Windows
A well-maintained wooden window is an essential part of a historic building. It reflects, in various degree the materials and techniques of the time in which it was constructed, the design and craftsmanship.
When repairs are feasible to existing windows are required, they should be carried out in-situ. Repairing the most deteriorated areas of decay can be accomplished by using specialized resin-based systems.
Durability
Timber windows were designed to last for centuries. They do require maintenance to ensure they look good. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables as well as tightening the pulleys on sash, and painting. There is also a rising demand to upgrade the timber windows to increase the efficiency of energy. This could include replacing old glazing units, fixing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills to increase the air seal.
One of the major issues with traditional windows is damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important when sash windows are concerned as the gaps between sashes can often be very large. In these circumstances, water can penetrate the paint film and cause decay of the putty and the wood beneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the rotting. To stop this from happening, windows should be painted regularly using a suitable exterior wood paint.
Areas that have been damaged must be repaired with resin-based products. This will ensure that the greatest amount of original fabric preserved. It is important to minimize the number of holes drilled into the frame in order to allow cable entry, because they could let in moisture and cause decay.
Another significant problem with older windows is structural movement in the wall that could cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can result in sash no longer fitting correctly, sticking or jamming in the opening and cracked glazing. This can be fixed frequently by fitting new sash frames made of slow-grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be constructed from durable hardwood such as oak to prevent movement between the existing and new work.
There are a variety of companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash to fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit the requirements of the modern homeowner. The new sash, combined with quadruple draft strip and a better thermal insulation, can make a significant difference to the efficiency of your home's energy usage.
Aesthetics
Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value since they usually show, in a particular way, the materials and technology and architectural style of the time in which they originate. They may have significant historical value in their own right. This is especially true of early windows that were not glazed in timber framed buildings where the great majority were just a collection of openings within the frame, which were divided horizontally into mullions and iron or wood bars to keep out invaders.
Traditional window joinery made of timber can be a stunning element of a structure and is essential to maintain its appearance. When you spot any signs of decay caused by water penetration it is crucial to stop it. This is best done by a thorough painting process, especially in areas in which there is already damage or degradation. It is recommended to choose paints that are intended to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number coats at each stage.
The fungus that causes wet rot can quickly spread in old windows made of wood. To stop this from happening, remove any rotten or damaged parts as soon as you can. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine), and if possible, the same kind of timber as the one being removed to prevent any differential movement.
In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became cheaper and more abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated, with tracery made of wood as well as moulded mullions and projection cills. In recent times, glass was pinned into rebated frames with glazing sprigs instead of lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaks but it can allow for more expansive, clearer sheets of glass to be used in windows than would otherwise be possible without the need for lead lights.
Energy efficiency
Traditional timber windows offer excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very meticulous attention to detail. The large glass areas, deep projecting cills and large glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, windows can be made more efficient to improve their energy efficiency. However it is essential to keep in mind that any such measures should be viewed in relation to the overall quality and appearance of the window in its original form.
As a result, retaining existing historic windows that require repair instead of replacing them is sensible, particularly when their thermal improvements can be achieved inexpensively with simple repairs and upgrades. double glazed windows cambridge are usually considered to be of historical value because they show a range in technical development and changes to architectural taste. Most people think 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 realize that decay issues in traditional timber windows are avoidable with timely and thorough repairs. It is also essential to spot damp issues and correct them swiftly so that you can avoid serious damage. Early deterioration of paint is a major problem since it allows moisture penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. This damage is often not apparent until the paintwork is damaged or wavy but it can cause severe structural damage and can lead to further decay.
A good quality paint will stop this moisture from entering. To prevent condensation and mould it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. The use of modern synthetic paints can be problematic, as they are often designed to be water-resistant which can result in the formation of mildew within the window frame.
The majority of windows from the past were constructed from timber with a high proportion of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to rain, however they can be protected by a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is important to choose the right kind of wood for your location and climate, as these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers create various types of timber sash that can be tailored to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be constructed according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that fit with the architectural style of historic buildings.
Maintenance
Regular inspections, careful redecoration, and quick repairs can prolong the life of timber windows. The main cause of decay is moisture intrusion through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be avoided by using a good wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.
Repairs to old sash windows and casement window frames must be done with care and with minimal disruption. Many traditional timber window designs are repairable without removing the frame, and this approach should be followed whenever possible. Remove any peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the area to improve the "key" of the surface. This will enable the new coating to adhere better. Be careful to avoid stripping old paint layers that may have historic value If these are present it is recommended that a study of the paint be carried out.
If a piece of timber has begun to decay, the best course of action is to remove the rotted material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to fit the existing profiles. The wood that is being inserted should be treated with a wood preserver and the joint between the timber cill and masonry sub-cill should be sealed.
It's tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, particularly when the installer provides an 'all-in-one' installation which includes removal and replacement in one day. It is, however, vital that the installer of windows replacement has a thorough knowledge of the structure and history of traditional wooden frames. This will enable them to make appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological advancements that won't harm the character of a historic building. The windows that are replaced should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure that replacement windows are approved by the Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. It is, of course, possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-u windows that are sympathetic to the the original building. This is especially true when windows are installed in listed buildings and conservation areas.