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Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained wooden window is a crucial part of a historic building. It reflects in different levels, the materials and technologies of the time period it was constructed, the craftsmanship and architectural taste. When repairs are feasible to existing windows should be done in situ. Repairing the most deteriorated areas of decay is possible with the help of specialized resin-based systems. Durability Timber windows were designed to last hundreds of years. But, they have to be maintained to ensure they look good and functioning properly. Maintenance tasks include sash cord repairs, retightening of pulleys on sash, and painting. There is a growing need to upgrade timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This may include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates, or installing new cills to improve air seal. A key problem with traditional windows is the damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially important where sash windows are involved as the gaps between the sashes can be very large. In these instances water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty as well as the wood underneath. The rotting process can be made worse by weather conditions that are not ideal. To stop this from happening, windows must be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint. The areas that are damaged should be repaired with resin-based products. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is also important to limit the number of holes you drill into the frame for cable entry, as they could admit water and lead to decay. The structural movement of the wall can cause distortions in the frame and the sash. This can result in the sash not fitting properly and jamming or sticking into the opening, and even broken glass. This can be corrected often by putting in new sash frames made of slow-grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to avoid differential movement between the old and new work. There are several companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash that fit into the majority of existing openings. wooden sliding doors cambridge are available in various sizes and finishes that will suit the needs of modern homeowners. These sash are coupled with quadruple draft strips and a better thermal insulation, can significantly improve the energy-efficiency of a home. Aesthetics A lot of old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal because they display, in a certain form, the materials technology, design, and taste from the time period they were constructed. They may also have significant historical value in their own right. This is especially true for windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed buildings, where the great majority were merely a series of openings within the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions and iron or wood bars to keep out intrusions. Traditional window joinery made from timber is a beautiful aspect of a building, and is essential to keep its appearance. When you spot any signs of decay due to moisture penetration it is crucial to stop it. This is best accomplished by painting thoroughly, especially in areas where there has already been damage or degradation. It is best to choose paints that are intended to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preparation and number of coats at each stage. The fungus responsible for wet rot is able to spread quickly in old timber windows. To stop this from happening, take out any rotten or damaged parts as promptly as you are able to. The replacement of rotting wood should be carefully undertaken by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, if feasible it is the same species as that which is being removed in order to prevent any movement differences between the new section and the existing timbers. Glass became more affordable and abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. As a result, 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 to frames that were rebated with glazing sprigs instead of lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak, but also allows for more clear glass sheets to be utilized than would have been feasible without the use of lead lights. Energy efficiency Traditional timber windows offer an excellent energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction, as well as meticulous attention to detail. They also have large glass areas as well as deep projecting cills that minimise air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing windows can be upgraded to improve their energy efficiency. However it is essential to keep in mind that these measures should be viewed in the context of the overall quality and appearance of the window in its original form. It makes sense to repair or upgrade existing historic windows rather than replace them, especially when the improvements in thermal efficiency can be achieved through simple repairs. Historic windows are often considered to be of historical value because they demonstrate a variety in technological advancement and changes in the architectural style. 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 they are in a position to last for 150, 200 and even 250 years if properly maintained. It is essential to understand that the decay issues that are caused by traditional timber windows can be prevented by regular maintenance and prompt repairs. It is also crucial to spot damp issues and address them promptly to avoid major damage. Early deterioration of paint is a particular problem, as it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. This damage is often not evident until the paintwork becomes cracking or wavy however, it can cause serious structural damage, and could lead to further decay. A good quality paint will stop this moisture penetration. It is also essential to keep the paintwork in good condition in order to prevent condensation and mould growth. Modern synthetic paints are problematic since they are usually water-resistant and may cause mildew growth in the window frame. Most older windows were made from sapwood-rich timber. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration quickly when exposed to moist weather, however they can be protected with a thorough preservative treatment before they are put to use. It is crucial to select the appropriate type of wood for your location and climate, as these factors will affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers make a variety of timber sash that can be adapted to fit specific openings from the past. They can be built to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom sizes that are in keeping with the historic architecture. Maintenance Regular inspection as well as careful redecoration and quick repairs can prolong the lifespan of windows made of timber. The main cause of decay is moisture penetration through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by thorough painting and using an excellent wood preservative. It is important that repairs to old sash or casement windows are done correctly and completed with minimal disruption. It is possible to fix several traditional designs of timber windows without having to remove the frame. This is a must whenever it is possible. Loose or peeling paint must be removed with care and sanded lightly to increase the 'key' of the surface and allow for an easier adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid stripping paint layers that may have historic value and if they are present it is recommended that a paint analysis be carried out. If a piece of timber has become rotten the best way to proceed is to take out the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The timber inserts should be treated using wood preservative, and the joint between the masonry sub-cill and the timber cill should be sealed. It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC U, particularly if the installer offers an installation that includes removal and replacement in a single day. It is essential 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 and other technological advancements that won't alter the appearance of a building that is historic. The windows that are replaced must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved by the Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. It is quite possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-u windows that match the the building originally. This is especially true when the windows are situated within listed buildings or conservation areas.