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Maintaining Timber Windows
A well-maintained wooden window is an essential part of a historic building. It illustrates in varying degrees the various materials and techniques design, craftsmanship and aesthetics of the period that it was built in.
Whenever possible repairs to windows that are already in use should be made in situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to fix the worst areas of decay without having to remove the entire window.
Durability
Timber windows were designed to last hundreds of years. However, they do need to be maintained to keep them looking good and operating correctly. The most common maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords, re-tightening sash pulleys, and painting. There is a growing need for upgrading timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This may mean replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates or putting in new cills to allow for improved air sealing.
A key problem with traditional windows is the damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly true when sash windows are involved as the gaps between the sashes can be quite large. In these instances, water can penetrate the paint film and cause decay of the putty and the wood beneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the decay. To stop this from happening, windows should be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.
In addition to repainting, corroded areas need to be repaired with an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure the maximum amount of original fabric preserved. It is also important to limit the number of holes drilled into the frame for cable entry, as they could allow water in and cause decay.
Another major issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall that can cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and broken glass. This is often corrected by putting in new frames for sash made of slow-grown deal (pine), or oak. The cill should be made from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to prevent movement between the existing and new work.
To help reduce this problem, there are now a variety of companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit into the majority of existing openings. They are available in various sizes and finishes that will meet the requirements of modern homeowners. These sash are combined with quadruple draft strips and improved thermal insulation can make a significant difference to the energy-efficiency of a home.
Aesthetics
A lot of old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal because they display, in a certain form, the materials technology, design, and taste from the time period they were made. They could have significant historical value in their own right. This is especially true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber framed buildings where the great majority were simply a series of openings in the frame, which were divided horizontally into mullions and vertical iron or wood bars to keep out intruders.
Traditional window joinery made from timber can be a stunning element of a structure and is essential to maintain its appearance. When you spot any signs of decay due to the penetration of moisture it is crucial to stop it. This is best done by a thorough painting process, especially in areas where there has already been damage or degradation. It is best to use paints designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preparation and number of coats at each stage.
Wet rot is a typical issue in old timber windows and the best way to stop it becoming a problem is to take out any damaged or rotten parts as soon as you can to prevent the spread of the fungus responsible for it. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine) and, should it be possible, the same type of timber that is being removed to prevent the possibility of differential movement.
In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became less expensive and more plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more elegant with wooden tracery as well as moulded mullions and projection cills. In recent years, glass was fixed into rebated frames with glazing sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak, but also allows for larger sheets of glass to be employed than would be possible otherwise without the use of lead lights.
Energy efficiency
Traditional timber windows provide excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very careful attention to detailing. They also have large glass areas and deep projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, the windows can be improved to increase their energy efficiency. It is important to remember that these measures should be taken into consideration in relation to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.
Therefore, keeping the existing windows from the past that require repair rather than replacing them makes sense, particularly when their thermal enhancements can be achieved economically through simple repairs and improvements. Historic windows often have a historical value that shows a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural tastes. Many people believe that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, they 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 that are that are typical of timber windows can be prevented through regular maintenance and prompt repairs. It is also essential to recognize damp issues and fix them quickly so that you can avoid serious damage. Early deterioration of paint is a major issue, as it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go unnoticed until paintwork starts to crack or turn curly. However, it could cause structural damage and further decay.
A good paint will prevent moisture penetration. To avoid condensation and mould, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints are problematic because they are often water-resistant and may cause mildew growth in the window frame.
The majority of windows from the past were constructed of sapwood-rich timber. These timbers deteriorate quickly if exposed to rain, however they can be protected with a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is important to choose the right kind of wood for the location and climate, as these factors will affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers have a wide range of sash made from timber that can be made to fit the historic openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historic structures.
Maintenance
Regular inspection, careful redecoration, and prompt repairs can extend the life of wooden windows. The primary cause of wood decay is the penetration of moisture through deteriorated paint or putty. This can be prevented by using a high-quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.
Repairs to old sash windows as well as window frames made of casement should be handled with care and with the least amount of disruption. Repairs can be made to several traditional designs of timber windows without having to remove the frame. This is a must whenever it is possible. Remove 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. upvc door handle repairs near me repairmywindowsanddoors is crucial to avoid removing old paint layers that could have historical significance.
Where a section of timber is rotten, the best way to proceed is to take out the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to fit the existing profiles. The wood that is inserted should be treated with a wood preservative and the connection between the timber cill and sub-cill for masonry should be sealed.
Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u is an appealing option, particularly when the installer provides a "one-stop shop" installation that takes care of both removal and replacement within the span of a day. However, it is crucial that the person who installs windows replacement has a thorough knowledge of the structure and history of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make appropriate suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technical improvements that won't harm the historic character of a building. Anyone who installs replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are approved by the Building Regulations as a suitable option. A skilled carpenter can install PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to the original character of the building. This is particularly applicable when windows are in conservation areas or listed buildings.