The Top Cambridge Window Gurus Do Three Things
Maintaining Timber Windows
A well-maintained timber window is a crucial part of the historic fabric of a building. It reflects in varying degrees, the technology and materials of the time it was constructed, as well as the design and craftsmanship.
When repairs are feasible to windows that are already in use should be made in situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to repair the most deteriorated areas without removing the whole window.
Durability
Timber windows were made to last for hundreds of years. But, they have to be maintained to keep them looking great and working properly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables and retightening pulleys on sash, and painting. There is a growing need to upgrade the timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This may mean replacing old glass units, repairing the window rebates that are in place, or installing new cills that allow for better air sealing.
The corrosion of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is especially true when it comes to sash windows, as the gaps between sashes can be very large. In these situations water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty as well as the wood beneath. The rotting process can be made worse due to weather conditions that are poor. To prevent this, windows should be regularly painted with a suitable exterior wood paint.
In addition to repainting, corroded areas should be repaired with an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure the maximum amount of the original fabric is retained. It is important to minimize the number of holes that are made into the frame to allow cable access, because they could let in moisture and cause decay.
Another issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall which can lead to deformation of the frame and the sash. This can result in sash no longer fitting correctly, sticking or jamming in the opening, and damaged glazing. Often this can be corrected by fitting new sash boxes made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed of a strong hardwood like oak, to prevent differential movement between new and old work.
To alleviate this issue, there are now a number of companies who manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash that can be fitted into most openings. The sash is available in a range of sizes and finishes that meet the needs of today's homeowner. upvc repairs near me repairmywindowsanddoors are combined with quadruple draft strips and improved thermal insulation can make a significant difference to the energy-efficiency of a home.
Aesthetics
Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value because they typically illustrate, in some way the materials and technologies and architectural style of the time in which they date. They may have significant historical value as a set. This is particularly true for early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, where the majority were simply a series openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions, and vertically by iron or wood bars in order to protect against intruders.
Traditional window joinery made of timber can be a highly decorative element of a structure and is essential to keep it looking good. It is vital that any decay that results from moisture penetration should be stopped as soon as it is discovered. It is best to do this by thorough painting, especially where there is damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints designed to be used as part of a system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations in relation to preparation and the amount of coats needed 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 sections immediately to prevent the spread of the fungus that causes it. The replacement of rotting wood must be done with care with a slow-growing deal (pine) and, whenever possible it is the same species as which is being removed to prevent any movement differences between the new section and the existing timbers.
In the late period of the 17th century and the middle of the medieval period, glass became cheaper and more plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became sophisticated with wooden tracery, moulded mullions and deep projection cills. In recent years, glass was fixed to frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less prone to leaking but it also allows larger and clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would otherwise be possible without the need for leaded lights.
Energy efficiency
The traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction as well as attention to the smallest of details. They also feature large glass areas and deep projection cills which reduce air infiltration. The windows can be modified to improve their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However it is crucial to keep in mind that these measures should be viewed in relation to the overall integrity and appearance of the original window.
It makes sense to fix or upgrade historic windows rather than replace them, particularly when improvements in thermal efficiency can be achieved through simple repairs. Older windows typically have an historic value that shows a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural style. The pressure to replace these windows are generally based on the assumption that old windows will need replacement in the near future, however they are capable of providing service for 150, 200 and even 250 years, if properly maintained.
It is crucial to recognize that the decay problems that are typical of timber windows can be avoided by thorough maintenance and prompt repairs. It is also essential to recognize damp issues and correct them swiftly in order to avoid major damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early is a concern because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, which can 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 further decay.
A high-quality paint will stop this moisture from entering. To avoid condensation and mould it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. The use of modern synthetic paints could be a problem, as they are often designed 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 with an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are used. It is crucial to select the right kind of wood for your location and climate, as these variables can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide various types of sash timbers that can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be constructed to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom sizes that are in keeping with the historic architecture.
Maintenance
The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended significantly through regular inspections, careful redecoration and timely repair. The main cause of decay is moisture penetration through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a good wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.
Repairs to old sash windows and frameless casement windows must be done with care and minimal disruption. A lot of traditional wooden window designs can be repaired without removing the frame, and this option should be used whenever it is possible. Loose or peeling paint should be removed with care and sanded lightly to increase the 'key' of the surface and facilitate a better adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid removing old paint layers, which could have historical significance.
Where a section of timber has begun to decay, the best way to proceed is to eliminate the rotten 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 with wood preservative. The junction between masonry sub-cills and timber cill should be sealed.
It's tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, especially if the installer offers an all-in-one installation that includes removal and replacement in one day. However, it is crucial that the person who installs replacement windows has a full knowledge of the construction and history of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the right recommendations for energy efficiency improvements and other technological upgrades that will not harm the character of a historic building. Anyone who installs replacement windows must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed to be approved under Building Regulations as a suitable option. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u windows that conform to original building's character. This is particularly true when the windows are in conservation areas or listed buildings.