15 Of The Best Documentaries On Cambridge Window
Maintaining Timber Windows
A well-maintained wooden window is a crucial component of a historical building. It illustrates in varying degrees the different materials and technologies, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the time from which it dates.
Whenever possible repairs to windows that are already in use should be done in-situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay is possible by using specialized resin-based systems.
Durability
Timber windows were made to last for centuries. They do require some maintenance to keep them looking great. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. There is a growing need to upgrade timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This can involve replacing old glazing units, fixing the window rebates that are in place, or installing new cills for better air sealing.
A key problem with traditional windows is the damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly true when windows made of sash are involved because the gaps between the sashes can be very wide. In these situations, water can penetrate the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood beneath. The weather can be a factor in accelerating the decay. To prevent this from happening, windows need to be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.
In addition to repainting, corroded areas must be repaired using a resin-based repair product. This will ensure the maximum amount of original fabric preserved. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes that are drilled in the frame to allow cable entry, because they could let in moisture and cause decay.
Another major issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall, which can lead to deformation of the frame and sash. This can lead to sash not fitting correctly and jamming or sticking into the opening, and even broken glass. Most often, this is corrected by fitting new sash boxes constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be made from a sturdy hardwood, such as oak, to avoid shifting between the new and older work.
There are now several companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash to fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in various sizes and finishes that suit the needs of modern-day homeowners. Together with quadruple draught strips and improved thermal insulation, these new sash can make an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a home.
Aesthetics
Many old wooden windows have an excellent aesthetic value because they typically demonstrate, in a way the materials and technologies and architectural style of the period from which they originate. They may also have significant historical significance on their own. This is particularly true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed structures, where the majority of them were series openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions with vertical iron or wood bars in order to keep out invaders.
It is crucial to maintain the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. As soon as you notice any signs of decay caused by moisture penetration it is essential to stop it. This is best done by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas that have already suffered damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish) and to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number of coats at each stage.
The fungus responsible for wet rot is able to spread quickly in old windows made of wood. To stop this from happening, get rid of any damaged or rotten parts as quickly as you can. The replacement of rotting wood should be done with care and by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, whenever possible it is the same species as that which is being removed to avoid any movement differences between the new and old timbers.
In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became less expensive and more plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated with wooden tracery, moulded mullions and deep protruding cills. In recent years, glass was fixed to rebated frames with glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less prone to leaks but it also allows much wider, clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would have been possible without the need for leaded lights.
Suggested Web site are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction as well as care for particulars. They also have large glass areas as well as deep projection cills which reduce air infiltration. Windows can be designed to increase their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. It is crucial to keep in mind that these measures should be considered in relation to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.
It makes sense to repair or upgrade existing windows, rather than replacing them, particularly when improvements in thermal efficiency can be made through simple fixes. Historic windows often have historical significance that illustrates a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural style. Most people think that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, many of them can still provide service for 150, 200 or even 250 years if they are maintained with proper maintenance.
It is essential to understand that the decay issues caused by traditional windows made of timber can be avoided by regular maintenance and timely repairs. It is also crucial to identify damp problems and address them promptly 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 starts to crack or turn wavier. However, it can cause structural damage and lead to further decay.
A good quality paint will prevent this moisture penetration. It is also important to keep the paintwork spotless in order to prevent mould and condensation. Modern synthetic paints can pose a problem, as they are often made to be water-resistant and this can result in the formation of mildew inside the window frame.
Most older windows were made of sapwood-rich timber. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to rain, however they can be protected by an extensive preservation treatment prior to use. It is essential to select the right kind of wood for the location and climate, as these variables can affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer various types of timber sash which can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to historic buildings.
Maintenance
The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended through regular inspections as well as a careful redecoration and prompt repair. The main cause of decay is moisture penetration through deteriorated paint or putty. This can be avoided by careful painting and the use of high-quality wood preservative.
Repairs to old sash windows as well as window frames made of casement should be done with care and with the least amount of disruption. Repairs can be made to several traditional designs of timber windows without removing the frame. This should be done as often as is feasible. 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. It is crucial to avoid removing old paint layers, as they may have historical value.
When a piece of wood has become rotten the best option is to take out the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to fit the existing profiles. The timber that is inserted should be treated using wood preservative, and the joint between masonry sub-cill and timber cill should be sealed.
It's tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, particularly when the installer offers an all-in-one installation that includes both replacement and removal in one day. However, it is crucial that the person who installs windows replacement has a thorough understanding of the construction and history of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological upgrades that won't harm the historical character of a building. Those who provide replacement windows should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme like as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed to be approved by the Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. It is certainly possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-u windows that are sympathetic to the character of the original building. This is especially true where windows are installed in listed buildings and conservation areas.