5 Reasons Cambridge Window Can Be A Beneficial Thing
Maintaining Timber Windows
A well-maintained and maintained timber window is a crucial element of the historical structure of a building. It demonstrates in various degrees the different materials and technologies as well as the craftsmanship and architectural style of the time from which it originates.
If it is possible, repairs must be made in-situ. Repairing the most deteriorated areas of decay is possible using proprietary resin-based systems.
Durability
The windows made of timber in many old structures were designed to last for centuries. However, they need to be maintained to ensure they look good and functioning properly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords as well as tightening the pulleys for sash and painting. There is a growing need to upgrade the timber windows to increase the efficiency of energy. This could mean replacing old glass units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or putting in new cills for better air sealing.
The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is especially important when it comes to sash windows as the gaps between sashes can often be extremely large. In these instances, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty beneath. The rotting can be exacerbated due to weather conditions that are poor. To prevent this from happening, windows must be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.
Areas that have been damaged must be repaired using a resin-based product. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes that are made into the frame to allow cable access, because they could let in moisture and cause decay.
Another major issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall, which can lead to deformation of the frame and the sash. This could result in the sash fitting incorrectly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and broken glass. 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 avoid any movement between the new and existing work.
There are now several companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash that fit in with the majority of openings. The sash is available in a range of sizes and finishes to suit the requirements of the modern homeowner. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and improved thermal insulation, these new sash can make a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of a house.
Aesthetics
Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value since they usually demonstrate, in a way, the materials and technology and architectural taste of the period from when they were built. They also may have a significant historical significance in their individual cases. This is particularly true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed structures, where the great majority were simply a series of openings within the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions and iron or wood bars to keep out intrusions.
Traditional timber window joinery is a beautiful feature of a building and is crucial to keep its appearance. It is essential that any decay that results from the penetration of moisture should be immediately stopped once it is discovered. It is recommended to do this by thorough painting, especially if there has been damage or degradation. It is advisable to use paints designed to be used as part of a system (primer undercoat, finish) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations in relation to preparation and number of coats needed at each stage.
The fungus that causes wet rot can quickly spread in old timber windows. To stop this from happening, remove any rotten or damaged parts as soon as you can. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine) and, when possible, the exact type of wood as the one that is being removed to prevent the possibility of differential movement.
In the late period of the 17th century and the middle of the medieval period, glass became more affordable and abundant, so that the glazed openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated with wooden tracery moulded mullions, moulded mullions, and deep projecting cills. The glazing was increasingly placed within frames with rebates and secured by 'glazing sprigs' rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less susceptible to leaks, but also allows for more expansive and clearer sheets of glass to be used in windows than would otherwise be possible without the need for lead lights.
Energy efficiency
The traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness, multilayer construction and care for the smallest of details. The large glass areas, the deep projecting cills and large glazing areas minimize air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, the windows can be improved 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 appearance and integrity of the original window.
So, retaining the existing windows from the past that are in need of repair rather than replacing them makes sense particularly when thermal enhancements can be made cost-effectively through simple repairs and improvements. Older windows typically have a historical value that illustrates a variety of technological advancement and changes in architectural tastes. The pressures to replace these windows are generally based on the assumption that windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, but the majority of them are capable of serving for 150, 200 or even 250 years if properly maintained.
It is crucial to understand that decay problems in traditional timber windows are avoidable with prompt and thorough repairs. It is also crucial to spot damp issues and fix them quickly in order to avoid major damage. Early paint deterioration is a particular problem, since it allows moisture penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this issue to go unnoticed until the paintwork starts to crack or turn curly. However, it could cause structural damage and lead to further decay.
A good paint will block moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. The use of modern synthetic paints could be a problem because they are usually designed to be water-resistant and this may lead to the formation of mildew in the window frame.
Most older windows were made from sapwood-rich wood. These timbers can deteriorate very quickly when exposed to moist weather, however they can be protected with a thorough treatment of preservative before they are put to use. It is important to choose the appropriate type of wood for the site and climate, as these factors will affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer a wide range of sash made from timber that can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be made to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom sizes that fit with historic buildings.
Maintenance
The life of timber windows can be extended significantly by regular inspection as well as a careful redecoration and prompt repair. The primary cause of wood decay is moisture leaking through deteriorated paint or putty. This can be avoided with careful painting and the use of an excellent wood preservative.
It is important that repairs to old sash and casement windows are done correctly and completed with minimal disruption. Many of the traditional designs for timber windows can be repaired without removing the frame, and this option should be taken whenever possible. Remove peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the surface to improve the 'key" of the surface. This will allow the new coating to adhere better. It is important to avoid stripping old paint layers that might have historical significance If these are present it is recommended that a paint analysis be conducted.
When a piece of wood has become rotten the best course of action is to remove the rotted material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The timber that is inserted should be treated using wood preservative and the junction between masonry sub-cills and timber cill should be sealed.
Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u is a tempting option, especially when the installer provides an "all-in-one" installation service that can handle both removal and replacement within the span of a day. However, it is crucial that the person who installs replacement windows has a full understanding of the construction and history of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make appropriate recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological improvements that don't alter the appearance of a historic building. timber casement windows cost cambridge who provide replacement windows should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved as a suitable solution in accordance with Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u windows that conform to the original building's style. This is especially true when the windows are located within conservation areas or listed buildings.