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Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained timber window is an important element of the historic fabric of a structure. It is a representation of the different materials and technologies, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the period from which it originates. When repairs are feasible to windows that are already in use should be made in situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to repair the most damaged areas of decay without removing the entire window. Durability Timber windows were made to last for hundreds of years. However, they do need to be maintained to ensure they look good and operating correctly. Maintenance tasks include sash cord repairs, retightening of pulleys on sash, and painting. The need to upgrade windows made of timber to increase efficiency in energy use is also growing. This could mean replacing old glass units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or putting in new cills to allow the air to seal better. A key problem with traditional windows is damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially important where windows with sash are involved since the gaps between sashes can be very wide. In these situations water can enter the paint film and cause rotting to the putty or wood beneath. The weather can be a factor in accelerating the decay. To stop this from happening windows from becoming rotten, they must be painted regularly using an exterior wood paint that is suitable. In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded should be repaired with a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the greatest amount of original fabric retained. It is also essential to minimise the number of holes drilled into the frame for cable entry, as they could allow water in and cause decay. Another issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall which can cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can lead to sash no longer fitting correctly, sticking or jamming in the opening and cracked glazing. Most often, this is corrected through the installation of new sash boxes constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be constructed of a durable hardwood like oak to avoid differential movement between the new and existing work. To reduce glass repair cambridge to reduce the risk of this happening, there are several companies that make Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit most existing openings. The sash is available in a variety of sizes and finishes that meet the requirements of the modern homeowner. Together with quadruple draught strips and better thermal insulation these sashes can make a a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of a home. Aesthetics Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value since they usually demonstrate, in a way the materials and techniques and architectural taste of the time from which they originate. They could also have a significant historical significance in their individual cases. This is especially true for early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed structures, where the great majority were simply a series of openings within the frame, which were divided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into wood or iron bars to deter invaders. Traditional timber window joinery can be a stunning feature of a building and is essential to keep its appearance. It is essential that any decay that results from water penetration is stopped as soon as it is recognised. This can be done by painting thoroughly, especially in areas in which there is already damage or degradation. It is best to use paints that are designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number of coats at each stage. The fungus that causes wet rot is able to spread quickly in old windows made of timber. To stop this from happening, remove any damaged or rotten parts as soon as you can. The replacement of rotting timber should be done with care and with a slow-growing deal (pine) and, whenever feasible it is the same species as that which is being removed to avoid shifting between the new section and existing timbers. In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became less expensive and more abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated with wooden tracery as well as moulded mullions and projection cills. In recent years, glass was fixed into frames that were rebated with glazing sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less susceptible to leaks, but it also allows larger and clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would have been possible without the need for lead lights. Energy efficiency Traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness, multilayer construction and attention to detail. The large glass surfaces, the deep projecting cills and large glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. The windows can be made to improve their energy efficiency by draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However it is essential to keep in mind that any such measures must be considered in terms of the overall appearance and integrity of the original window. As a result, retaining the existing windows from the past that are in need of repair rather than replacing them makes sense, particularly when their thermal improvements can be achieved inexpensively with simple repairs and upgrades. Older windows are usually of historical value, as they reflect a variety of technological advancements and changes to architectural style. Most people think that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, they are still in service for 150, 200 or even 250 years with proper maintenance. It is essential to realize that decay issues associated in traditional timber windows are avoidable with prompt and thorough repairs. It is also crucial to recognize damp issues and correct them swiftly so that you can avoid serious damage. Early paint deterioration can be a problem because it allows moisture to get into the wood, leading to wet rot. This type of damage is typically not apparent until the paintwork becomes damaged or wavy but it can cause severe structural damage and lead to further decay. A good paint will stop moisture from entering the paint. 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 made to be water-resistant and this may result in the formation of mildew inside the window frame. The majority of windows from the past were made from timber that contained the majority of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to moist weather, but can be preserved with a thorough preservative treatment before they are used. It is also essential to ensure that the type of timber used is well-suited to the climate and site conditions, since these factors affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers have various types of sash timbers that can be made to fit the historic openings. They are available in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to suit the architectural style of historic structures. Maintenance The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended through regular inspections carefully redecoration, and timely repair. The main reason for the decay is moisture intrusion through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be avoided by using a good wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood. Repairs to sash windows that are old and frameless casement windows should be done 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 option should be used whenever it is possible. Remove loose or peeling paint and then lightly sand the surface to improve the 'key” of the surface. This will allow the new coating to adhere better. It is important to avoid stripping old paint layers that may have historic value, and where these are present it is recommended that a paint analysis be conducted. When a section of wood is rotting the best option is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts designed to match existing profiles. The wood that is being inserted should be treated with wood preservative and the joint between the cill for timber and the masonry sub-cill should be sealed. It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, particularly when the installer offers an all-in-one installation that includes both removal and replacement in a single day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the appropriate suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technical improvements that will not harm the historic character of a building. The window installers who provide replacement windows must be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are deemed acceptable under Building Regulations as a suitable option. It is, of course, possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-U windows that are sympathetic to the the original building. This is particularly true where windows are installed in listed buildings or conservation areas.