Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is an important part of the historic fabric of a building. It reflects in different degree the materials and techniques of the time it was constructed, the design and craftsmanship.

When repairs are feasible to existing windows should be carried out in-situ. Repairing the worst areas of decay can be accomplished using proprietary resin-based systems.

Durability

The timber windows in many old buildings were built to last for centuries. They do require maintenance to keep them looking good. The most frequent maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs as well as tightening sash pulleys and painting. There is also a growing demand to upgrade the 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 door seal repair near me.

A key problem with traditional windows is the damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially true when sash windows are concerned, as the gaps between sashes may be very large. In these cases water can get into paint film and cause rotting of the putty or wood beneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the decay. To prevent this from happening, windows should be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

The areas that are damaged should be repaired using resin-based products. This will ensure that the maximum amount of original fabric retained. It is essential to limit the number of holes that are made in the frame to allow cable entry since they can let in moisture and cause decay.

Another major issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall that could cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can result in the sash not fitting properly or sticking or jamming into the opening, and damaged glazing. Most often, this is corrected by fitting new sash boxes that have been made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed of a durable hardwood, such as oak, to avoid differential movement between new and old work.

There are a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash to fit into the majority of existing openings. These sash come in various sizes and finishes that suit the needs of modern-day homeowners. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and a better thermal insulation, these new sash options can make an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of your home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value as they often illustrate, in some way the materials and technologies and architectural taste of the time from which they date. They could also have a significant historical significance in their in their own right. This is particularly true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed buildings, which were simply a series of openings within the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into wood or iron bars to keep out invaders.

It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional timber plastic window repair joinery. As soon as you notice any decay caused by moisture penetration, it is important to stop it. This is best accomplished by painting thoroughly, especially in areas where there has already been damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints specifically designed to be used part of the system (primer undercoat, finish) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines in terms of preparation and the amount of coats needed at each stage.

Wet rot is a typical problem for old timber windows. The best way to stop it becoming a problem is to take out any damaged or rotten parts as soon as possible to stop the spread of the fungus responsible for it. 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 avoid the possibility of differential movement.

In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became more affordable and plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated with wooden tracery, moulded mullions and deep projection cills. In recent years, glazing was fixed to frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak and break, but also allows larger sheets of glass to be used than would have been possible otherwise without the use of led lights.

Energy efficiency

The traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness and multilayer construction, as well as their attention to the smallest of details. The large glass areas, the deep projection cills and wide glazing areas minimize air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing the windows can be improved to improve their energy efficiency. However, it is important to remember that such measures should be viewed in terms of the overall quality and appearance of the original slider window repair.

So, retaining the existing windows from the past that are in need of repair rather than replacing them is logical especially when their thermal improvements can be achieved economically through simple repairs and improvements. The windows that are historic have a lot considered to be of historical value because they reflect a variety of technical development and changes to architectural taste. The pressures to replace such windows are usually based on the assumption that old windows will need replacement in the near future, but they are capable of providing service for 150, 200 and even 250 years, if properly maintained.

It is important to recognise that the decay issues that are caused by traditional windows made of timber can be avoided through regular maintenance and swift repairs. In addition it is crucial to spot damp penetration issues and address them swiftly to prevent serious damage. The early deterioration of paint can be a problem because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, causing wet rot. This damage is often not evident until the paintwork becomes wavy or cracked, but can cause significant structural damage and can lead to further decay.

A good paint will stop moisture from entering the paint. To prevent mould and condensation, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints pose a challenge because they are often water-resistant and can cause mildew to develop within the window frame.

The majority of older windows 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 preserved with an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are put to use. It is crucial to select the right type of wood for the location and climate, as these variables can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local plastic window repair manufacturers create a variety of timber sash that can be adapted to fit specific openings from the past. They can be made according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom dimensions that are compatible with the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance

The life span of windows made from timber can be extended considerably through regular inspections as well as a careful redecoration and timely upvc door repair. The most common cause of decay is moisture infiltration through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided with thorough painting and the use of a good quality wood preservative.

Repairs to old sash windows and window frames made of casement should be done with care and minimal disruption. It is possible to repair several traditional designs of timber windows without removing the frame. This should be done whenever possible. Remove peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the area to improve the "key" of the surface. This will allow the new coating to stick better. Care should be taken to avoid stripping paint layers that might have historical significance, and where these are present it is recommended that a paint analysis be carried out.

When a piece of wood has begun to decay, the best option is to remove the rotted material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to match existing profiles. The wood that is inserted should be treated with a wood preservative and the connection between the cill for timber and the sub-cill for masonry should be sealed.

It can be tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC U, particularly if the installer offers an all-in-one installation that includes removal and replacement in one day. It is important that the installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the right suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technical upgrades that do not alter the character of a historic building. The windows that are replaced should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacement windows are approved as a suitable solution in accordance with Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u windows that conform to the original character of the building. This is particularly applicable when windows are located within conservation areas or listed buildings.