5 Cambridge Window Instructions From The Professionals
Maintaining Timber Windows
A well-maintained wooden window is an important element of a building that is historic. It illustrates in varying degrees the various materials and techniques, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the period from which it originates.
When repairs are feasible to existing windows should be done in-situ. Repairing the worst areas of decay can be done by using specialized resin-based systems.
Durability
The timber windows in many historic buildings were built to last for hundreds of years. But, they have to be maintained to ensure they look good and functioning properly. The most common maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. There is also a growing demand for upgrading timber windows to increase the efficiency of energy. This can involve replacing old glass units, fixing the window rebates that are in place or putting in new cills the air to seal better.
A key problem with traditional windows is damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly true when sash windows are involved as the gaps between sashes can be very wide. In these situations water can get into paint film and cause rotting of the putty or wood beneath. The rotting can be exacerbated by weather conditions that are not ideal. To avoid this windows, they should be painted regularly using a suitable exterior wood paint.
Corroded areas should be repaired with resin-based products. This will ensure the maximum amount of original fabric retained. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes that are drilled into the frame to allow cable access, as these can admit moisture and cause decay.
The structural movement of the wall can also lead to distortions in the frame and sash. This can result in the sash not fitting properly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and even broken glass. 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 must be constructed from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to prevent movement between the new and existing work.
To alleviate this issue to reduce the risk of this happening, there are several companies that produce Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit into the majority of existing openings. These sash are available in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit the needs of today's homeowner. These new sash, when combined with quadruple draft strip and a better thermal insulation, can significantly improve the energy-efficiency of a home.
Aesthetics
A lot of old timber frames possess a dazzling aesthetic appeal, since they show, in some shape, the materials technology, design, and taste from the time period they were built. They could also have significant historical value in their individual cases. This is particularly true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber framed buildings which were simply a series of openings in the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions and wood or iron bars to keep out intrusions.
Traditional window joinery made of timber is a beautiful feature of a building and is crucial to keep its appearance. As soon as you notice any signs of decay due to moisture penetration it is essential to stop it. It is recommended to do this with thorough painting, especially where there is damage or deterioration. It is best to choose paints that are intended to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish) and to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number of coats at each stage.
The fungus that causes wet rot is able to spread quickly in old windows made of timber. To stop this from happening, take out any rotten or damaged parts as quickly as you can. The replacement of rotting timber should be carefully undertaken with a slow-growing deal (pine) and, whenever possible it is the same species as that which is being removed in order to prevent differential movement between the new section and the existing timbers.
Glass became more affordable and abundant in the late medieval period and into the 17th century. In the process, the glazed openings in timber-framed homes were more elaborate, with moulded mullions, tracery made of wood and deep projecting cills. In recent years, glass was fixed to rebated frames with glazing sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaks but also allows for larger and clearer sheets of glass to be used in windows than would have been possible without the need for leaded lights.
Energy efficiency
Traditional timber windows offer excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness and multi-layer construction, as well as meticulous attention to detail. They also have large glass areas and deep projecting cills that minimise air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing windows can be upgraded to improve their energy efficiency. However it is crucial to keep in mind that any such measures must be considered in the context of the overall quality and appearance of the original window.
It is sensible to repair or upgrade existing historic windows rather than replace them, particularly when improvements in thermal efficiency can be made through simple fixes. The windows of the past often have an historic value that demonstrates a range of technological advancement and changes in architectural tastes. Most people assume that these windows will have to be replaced in the near future. However, they can still provide service for 150,200, and even 250 years if they are maintained with proper maintenance.
It is essential to realize that decay problems in traditional timber windows are avoidable with prompt and thorough repairs. In addition it is crucial to spot damp penetration issues and address them swiftly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint is a particular problem, because it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. The damage is usually not evident until the paintwork is damaged or wavy however, it can cause serious structural damage, and could lead to further decay.
A quality paint will block moisture penetration. It is also essential to keep the paintwork spotless to avoid mould and condensation. Modern synthetic paints could be a problem since they are typically formulated to be water-resistant, and this may result in the formation of mildew within the window frame.
The majority of windows from the past were manufactured from timber containing a high proportion of sapwood. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration quickly when exposed to moist weather, but can be protected by a thorough treatment of preservative before they are used. It is important to choose the right type of wood for your location and climate, as these factors will affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers make various types of timber sash that can be customized to fit specific historic openings. They are available in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historic buildings.
window companies cambridge of windows made of timber can be extended through regular inspections, careful redecoration and timely repair. The most common reason for decay is moisture infiltration through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a high-quality wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.
It is important that repairs to old sash and casement windows are well executed, and carried out with minimal disruption. Many traditional timber window designs are repairable without removing the frame, and this method should be followed whenever possible. Paint that is peeling or loose should be removed with care and sanded lightly to increase the key of the surface and allow for an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is essential to not remove old paint layers that may have historical value.
Where a section of timber has become rotten the best course of action is to take out the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to fit the existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with a wood preserver, and the junction between the cill for timber and the sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.
Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u can be a tempting option, especially when the installer provides an "all-in-one" installation that handles both removal and replacement within a day. However, it is essential that the person installing replacement windows has a full knowledge of the construction and history of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make appropriate recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological advancements that won't alter the appearance of a historic building. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that replacement windows are deemed to be approved in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable option. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u windows that are suited to the original building's style. This is especially true when the windows are located in listed buildings and conservation areas.