Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained and maintained timber window repair specialists is an important part of the historic fabric of a building. It reflects in different levels, the materials and technologies of the time period it was constructed, as well as the craftsmanship and architectural taste.

If it is possible, repairs must be done in-situ. Repairing the most deteriorated areas of decay can be done with the help of specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

The windows made of timber in many historic structures were designed to last for centuries. However, they need to be maintained to ensure they look good and functioning properly. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. There is also a growing demand to upgrade timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This may include replacing old glazing units, fixing the window maintenance rebates that are in place or installing new cills for improved air seal.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is particularly important in the case of sash windows because the gaps between sashes may be very large. In these cases water can get into paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty underneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the decay. To stop this from happening, windows must be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas must be repaired using an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric remains. It is essential to limit the number of holes that are created into the frame to allow cable entry, since they can let in moisture and cause decay.

Another issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall, which could cause deformation of the frame and the sash. This can lead to sash no longer fitting correctly or sticking or jamming into the opening, and damaged glazing. Often this can be corrected through the installation of new sash boxes made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed of a strong hardwood such as oak, to prevent the movement of new and older work.

There are a variety of companies that make Boston pattern wooden sash that fit most existing openings. These sash come in a variety of sizes and finishes that will meet the requirements of modern-day homeowners. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and improved thermal insulation, these new sash can make significant improvements to the energy efficiency of your home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value as they often illustrate, in some way the materials and techniques and architectural style of the time from which they originate. They also may have a significant historical significance in their individual cases. This is especially true for windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed structures, where the great majority were simply a series of openings in the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions and wood or iron bars to keep out intrusions.

Traditional timber window joinery can be a stunning feature of a building and is crucial to keep its appearance. It is crucial that any decay that results from moisture penetration should be immediately stopped once it is recognised. This can be done by a thorough painting process, especially in areas that have already suffered damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints specifically designed to be used as part of a system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding preparation and the amount of coats needed at each stage.

Wet rot is a frequent problem in older timber windows. The best method to stop it from becoming a problem is to take out sections that are damaged or rotten as soon as you can to stop the spread of the fungus responsible for it. Replace rotting wood with slow-growing deal (pine) and, should it be possible, the same kind of timber that is being removed to prevent the possibility of differential movement.

In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became cheaper and more plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became more elegant with wooden tracery, moulded mullions and deep projection cills. In the past, more often, the glass was laid within rebated frames and secured by 'glazing sprigs' rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaking but also allows for larger clearer, more transparent sheets of glass to be used in windows than would have been possible without the need for lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction, as well as their attention to the smallest of details. They also have large glass areas and projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, windows can be upgraded to improve their energy efficiency. However, it is important to keep in mind that any such measures should be evaluated in terms of the overall integrity and appearance of the original window.

It is logical to fix or upgrade windows, rather than replacing them, especially when the improvement in thermal efficiency can be achieved through simple repairs. Older windows are usually of historical value, as they reflect a variety of technical development and changes to the architectural style. Most people think that the windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, most will last for 150, 200 or even 250 years if you take care of maintenance.

It is essential to understand that the decay problems that are typical of windows made of timber can be avoided by thorough maintenance and timely repairs. It is also important to identify damp problems and address them promptly so that you can avoid serious damage. Early deterioration of paint is a particular problem, since it allows moisture penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go undetected until the paintwork begins to crack or become wavy. However, it could cause structural damage and further decay.

A high-quality paint will stop this moisture penetration. It is also necessary to keep the paintwork clean to avoid mould and condensation. The use of modern synthetic paints could be a problem since they are typically designed to be water-resistant and this may result in the formation of mildew in the window doctor near me frame.

Most older windows were made from sapwood-rich timber. These timbers can deteriorate quickly when exposed to rain, however they can be protected by a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is crucial to select the appropriate type of wood for your location and climate, as these variables will affect the durability of the joinery. Local window lock repairs manufacturers produce a range of sash made of timber that can be tailored to fit specific openings from the past. They are available in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance

Regular inspection carefully redecorated, as well as quick repairs can prolong the lifespan of windows made of timber. The main cause of decay is moisture penetration through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided with careful painting and the use of high-quality wood preservative.

It is essential that repairs to old sash and casement windows are done correctly and done with minimal disruption. It is possible to repair several traditional designs of timber windows without taking the frame off. This should be done whenever possible. Remove peeling or loose paint and then lightly sand the surface to improve the "key" of the surface. This will enable the new coating to adhere better. It is essential to avoid removing old paint layers, which could have historical significance.

If a portion of wood has rotted the best option is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts shaped to match existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with wood preservative, and the junction between the cill for timber and the sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u can be an attractive option, especially when the installer provides a "one-stop shop" installation that takes care of both removal and replacement within one day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the right suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technological upgrades that will not harm the historic character of a building. Those who provide replacement windows must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved as a suitable solution in accordance with Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u windows that conform to original building's character. This is particularly true where the windows are located in listed buildings and conservation areas.