Speak "Yes" To These 5 Cambridge Window Tips
Maintaining Timber Windows
A well-maintained wooden window is an essential element of a building that is historic. It illustrates in varying degrees the various materials and techniques design, craftsmanship and aesthetics of the time from which it dates.
If possible, repairs should be made in-situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to repair the most deteriorated areas without removing the whole window.
Durability
Timber windows were made to last for centuries. They require regular maintenance to keep them looking good. The most common maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. There is also a growing demand to upgrade timber windows to increase the efficiency of energy. This may include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates or installing new cills for improved air seal.
A key problem with traditional windows is the damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important in the case of sash windows, as the gaps between sashes can often be quite large. In these instances, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting to the putty or wood beneath. The rotting process can be made worse due to weather conditions that are poor. To prevent this from happening, windows must be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.
In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded must be repaired using the help of a resin-based repair solution. This will ensure that the maximum amount of the original fabric is retained. It is also important to limit the number of holes you drill into the frame to allow cable entry, as they could allow water in and cause decay.
The wall's structural movement can cause distortions in the frame as well as the sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and even broken glass. Often this can be corrected through the installation of new sash boxes made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be made from a sturdy hardwood, such as oak, in order to prevent any differential movement between new and old work.
To reduce the risk There are a variety of companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit most existing openings. They are available in various sizes and finishes that will fit the needs of modern-day homeowners. These sash are coupled with quadruple draft strips and improved thermal insulation can significantly improve the efficiency of your home's energy usage.
Aesthetics
Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value because they typically demonstrate, in a way the materials and techniques and architectural style of the time in when they were built. They may also have significant historical significance on their own. This is particularly true for early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, where the majority were series of openings in structural frames subdivided horizontally by mullions and vertical wood or iron bars in order to keep out invaders.
Traditional window joinery made from timber can be a highly decorative element of a structure and is crucial to maintain its appearance. It is vital that any decay caused by the penetration of moisture should be stopped as soon as it is discovered. This is best done by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas where there has already been damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints that are specifically designed to be used as part of the system (primer, undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding preparation and number of coats needed at each stage.
Wet rot is a common problem for older timber windows. The best way to stop it becoming a problem is to take out any damaged or rotten sections as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the fungus responsible for it. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine) and, if possible, the same type of wood that is being removed, to avoid the possibility of differential movement.
Glass became cheaper and more abundant in the late medieval period and into the 17th century. This led to the openings for glazed windows on timber-framed houses became more complicated with moulded mullions, wooden tracery and deep projecting cills. In recent times, glass was fixed into frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak and also allows wider sheets of clearer glass to be employed than would be possible otherwise without the use of lead lights.
Energy efficiency
Traditional timber windows provide an excellent energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay attentive attention to detail. They also feature large glass areas and projecting cills that minimise air infiltration. The windows can be made to increase their energy efficiency by draught-proofing and secondary glazing. It is essential to keep in mind that these measures must be taken into consideration when it comes to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.
It makes sense to fix or upgrade windows, rather than replacing them, particularly when improvement in energy efficiency can be made through simple repairs. Older windows are usually of historical significance, since they show a range in technological advancement and changes in architectural taste. The pressures to replace such windows are usually based on the assumption that the windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, however most are still capable of serving for 150, 200 or even 250 years if properly maintained.
It is essential to understand that the decay problems that are typical of timber windows can be avoided through regular maintenance and swift repairs. Additionally it is vital to recognize damp penetration issues and fix them promptly to prevent serious damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early can be a problem because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, leading to wet rot. This type of damage is typically not apparent until the paintwork becomes cracking or wavy, but can cause significant structural damage and lead to further decay.
A good quality paint will stop this moisture penetration. It is also essential to keep the paintwork clean in order to prevent condensation and mould growth. Modern synthetic paints can be problematic since they are typically designed to be water-resistant and this can result in the formation of mildew within the window frame.
Most older windows were made from sapwood-rich wood. These timbers deteriorate quickly if exposed to rain, however they can be preserved with an extensive preservation treatment prior to use. It is essential to select the right type of wood for the location and the climate, since these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers make a variety of timber sash that can be tailored to fit specific openings from the past. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historical structures.
Maintenance
The life of timber windows can be extended considerably through regular inspections carefully redecoration, and prompt repair. The primary cause of wood decay is the penetration of moisture through deteriorated paint and putty. window repair cambridge can be avoided by using a good wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.
It is important that repairs to old sash or casement windows are done correctly, and carried out without causing any disturbance. Repairs can be made to the majority of traditional wooden window designs without taking the frame off. This should be done whenever possible. Remove loose or peeling paint and lightly sand the surface to improve the "key" of the surface. This will allow the new coating to stick better. It is essential to not remove old paint layers, which could have historical significance.
If a portion of wood has rotted the best option is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts shaped to match the existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with wood preservative, and the junction between the timber cill and sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.
Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u is an appealing option, particularly when the installer offers a 'one stop shop' installation that takes care of removal and replacement in one day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows have a thorough understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the right suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological upgrades that won't affect the appearance of an historic building. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed as a suitable solution under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u windows that are suited to the original building's style. This is particularly applicable when windows are situated within conservation areas or listed buildings.