The Reason Cambridge Window Is Quickly Becoming The Most Popular Trend In 2023
Maintaining Timber Windows
A well-maintained and maintained timber window is a significant element of the historic fabric of a building. It reflects in varying degree the materials and technologies of the time in which it was constructed, as well as the design and craftsmanship.
When repairs are feasible to windows that are already in use should be done in-situ. The repair system that is based on resin can be used to fix the worst areas of decay without having to remove the entire window.
Durability
The timber windows in many historical buildings were made to last for centuries. They do require maintenance to ensure they look good. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables, retightening of pulleys on sash, and painting. There is also a rising demand to upgrade timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This may mean replacing old glass units, fixing the window rebates that are in place or putting up new cills that allow for improved air sealing.
A key problem with traditional windows is the damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially true when sash windows are concerned because the gaps between sashes can be very large. In these situations water can enter the paint film and cause rotting of the putty or wood beneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the rotting. To avoid this windows from becoming rotten, they must be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint that is suitable.
In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded need to be repaired with an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure that the maximum amount of original fabric is preserved. It is also important to limit the number of holes that are drilled into the frame for cable entry, as they could admit water and lead to decay.
The wall's structural movement can cause distortions in the frame and the sash. This can lead to sash not fitting correctly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and even broken glass. Most often, this is corrected by fitting new sash boxes made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be made from a sturdy hardwood, like oak, to prevent differential movement between new and old work.
To alleviate this issue, there are now several companies that make Boston pattern wooden sash that can be fitted into most openings. They are available in various sizes and finishes that will meet the requirements of modern homeowners. Together with quadruple draught strips and better thermal insulation these new sash options can make a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of a house.
Aesthetics
Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value as they often illustrate, in some way, the materials and technology and architectural style of the time from when they were built. They may have significant historical significance in their own right. This is particularly true of early unglazed windows in timber-framed buildings, in which the majority were series of openings within structural frames subdivided horizontally by mullions with vertical wood or iron bars in order to keep out intrusions.
It is essential to preserve the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. As soon as you see any signs of decay caused by water penetration it is essential to stop it. It is recommended to do this by thorough painting, especially if there is damage or degradation. It is recommended to choose paints that are intended to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preparation and number coats at each stage.
Wet rot is a frequent problem for old timber windows and the best method to stop it from becoming a problem is to take out any damaged or rotten parts immediately to prevent the spread of the fungus responsible for it. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine), and should it be possible, the same kind of timber as the one being removed, to prevent any differential movement.
In the late period of the 17th century and the middle of the medieval period, glass became less expensive and more abundant, so that the glazed openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated, with tracery made of wood, moulded mullions and deep projection cills. In the past, more often, the glass was placed within frames with rebates and secured with 'glazing sprigs' rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak and also allows larger sheets of glass to be used than would have been feasible without the use of leaded lights.
Energy efficiency
Traditional timber windows offer a good energy performance due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very attentive attention to detail. They also have large glass areas and projecting cills that minimise air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, windows can be made more efficient to improve their energy efficiency. However, it is important to keep in mind that any such measures should be viewed in relation to the overall appearance and integrity of the window in its original form.
Therefore, keeping old windows that are in need of repair instead of replacing them makes sense particularly when thermal enhancements can be achieved cost-effectively through simple repairs and upgrades. Historic windows are often considered to be of historical value because they demonstrate a variety in technological advancement and changes in the architectural style. Most people assume that the windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, they will last for 150, 200 or even 250 years if you take care of maintenance.
It is essential to realize that decay problems with traditional timber windows can be easily prevented with prompt and thorough repairs. It is also crucial to identify damp problems and fix them quickly in order to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint is a major problem because it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. This damage is often not evident until the paintwork becomes damaged or wavy however, it can cause serious structural damage and can lead to further decay.
A paint of good quality will stop moisture from entering the paint. It is also necessary to keep the paintwork spotless in order to prevent condensation and mould growth. Modern synthetic paints could be a problem because they are usually formulated to be water-resistant, which can cause the growth of mildew inside the window frame.
Most older windows were made from sapwood-rich timber. These timbers deteriorate quickly if exposed to rain, but they can be preserved with a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is important to choose the right type of wood for the location and the climate, since these factors will affect the durability of the joinery. cambridge window replacement provide an array of timber sash which can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be constructed according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom dimensions that are compatible with the historic architecture.
Maintenance
The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended considerably through regular inspections as well as a careful redecoration and timely repair. The primary reason for decay is the infiltration of moisture through the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be prevented by thorough painting and the use of a good quality wood preservative.
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. Many of the traditional designs for timber windows are repairable without removing the frame, and this method should be followed whenever possible. Paint that is peeling or loose must be removed with care and sanded lightly to improve the key of the surface and facilitate a better adhesion of the new coating. It is crucial to not remove old paint layers, as they may have historical significance.
If a piece of timber has begun to decay, the best option is to remove the rotted 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 preservative and the connection between the timber cill and sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.
Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u is an attractive option, especially when the installer provides a "one-stop shop" installation that takes care of removal and replacement within the span of a day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows have a thorough understanding of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements as well as other technological advancements that won't alter the appearance of an historic building. Window replacements 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 can install PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to the original building's style. This is particularly true where windows are installed in listed buildings or conservation areas.