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Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained window made of timber is a significant part of the historic fabric of a structure. It illustrates in varying degrees the different materials and technologies as well as the craftsmanship and architectural style of the time from which it originates. If it is possible, repairs must be made in-situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to repair the worst areas of decay without removing the whole window. Durability Timber windows were designed to last for centuries. However, they do need to be maintained to ensure they look good and functioning correctly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords as well as tightening the pulleys on sash, and painting. There is also a growing demand to upgrade the timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This could include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates, or installing new cills to increase the air seal. One of the main issues with traditional windows is the damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially true in the case of sash windows, as the gaps between sashes can often be extremely large. In these situations, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty underneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the rotting. To prevent this, windows should be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint that is suitable. Corroded areas should also be repaired using resin-based products. This will ensure that the greatest amount of original fabric retained. It is also important to reduce the number of holes that are drilled into the frame for cable entry since these could admit water and lead to decay. Another major issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall which can cause deformation of the frame and the sash. This can lead to sash no longer fitting correctly, sticking or jamming in the opening and cracked glazing. This is often corrected by fitting new frames for sash made of slow-grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be made of a strong hardwood like oak, in order to prevent any shifting between the new and older work. To alleviate this issue to reduce the risk of this happening, there are a variety of companies that make Boston pattern sash made of wood that can be fitted into most openings. The sash is available in various sizes and finishes to fit 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 great aesthetic appeal, as they display, in a certain form, the quality of the wood, technology, and architectural style of the time they were constructed. They also may have significant historical value in their own right. This is particularly true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, in which the majority were simply a series of openings in frames of structural construction, which were divided horizontally by mullions, and vertically by iron or wood bars in order to protect against intruders. It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. It is vital that any decay that results from moisture penetration should be removed as soon as it is recognised. This can be done by painting thoroughly, especially in areas in which there is already damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints that are specifically designed to be used as part of the system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines in terms of preparation and the number of coats needed at each stage. The fungus that causes wet rot can spread quickly in old timber windows. To stop this from happening, get rid of any damaged or rotten components as promptly as you are able to. The replacement of wood that is rotting must be done with care using slow grown deal (pine) and, if feasible, the same species as that which is being removed in order to prevent differential movement between the new section and existing timbers. Glass became cheaper and more abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. This led to the openings for glazed windows on timber-framed houses became more complex with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and cills that protruded deep. In the past, more often, the glass was placed within frames with rebates and secured by 'glazing sprigs' rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less prone to leaking but it also allows much wider clearer, more transparent sheets of glass to be used in windows than would otherwise be 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 attention to particulars. The large glass surfaces, the deep projection cills and wide glazing areas reduce air infiltration. The windows can be made to improve their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. It is important to keep in mind that these measures should be considered in relation to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows. As a result, retaining existing historic windows that are in need of repair rather than replacing them makes sense particularly when thermal enhancements can be achieved cost-effectively through simple repairs and upgrades. Historic windows are often considered to be of historical value because they show a range in technological advancements and changes to the architectural style. The pressure to replace these 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 problems associated with traditional timber windows can be avoided through regular maintenance and swift repairs. In addition, it is essential to identify damp penetration problems and fix them promptly to avoid serious damage. The early deterioration of paint can be a problem because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, leading to wet rot. The damage is usually not evident until the paintwork is damaged or wavy however, it can cause serious structural damage, and could lead to further decay. A paint of good quality will block moisture penetration. To prevent condensation and mould it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as it can be. The use of modern synthetic paints can be problematic since they are typically formulated to be water-resistant, which can result in the formation of mildew in the window frame. The majority of windows from the past were manufactured from timber containing a high proportion of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate very quickly when exposed to moist weather, however they can be protected by a thorough preservative treatment before they are put to use. It is also important to ensure that the type of timber used is well-suited to the climate and site conditions, as these factors will influence the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers have various types of sash made from timber that can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be made to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom sizes that are in keeping with the architectural style of historic buildings. Maintenance The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended by regular inspection carefully redecoration, and prompt repair. The major cause of decay is the penetration of moisture through deteriorated paint or putty. This can be avoided by using a good wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood. It is important that repairs to old sash or casement windows are well executed, and carried out with minimal disruption. It is possible to repair the majority of traditional wooden window designs without having to remove the frame. upvc door handle repairs near me Repair My Windows And Doors is a must whenever it is possible. Peeling or loose paint should be removed with care and sanded lightly to improve the 'key' of the surface and facilitate an easier adhesion of the new coating. Care should be taken to avoid stripping old paint layers which could have historical value and if they are present it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted. If a piece of wood is rotting, the best solution 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 joint between the cill for timber and the sub-cill for masonry should be sealed. Replacement of traditional windows using PVC-u can be an appealing option, particularly when the installer offers a 'one stop shop' installation service that can handle removal and replacement within a day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows have a thorough understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the right suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technical improvements that won't harm the historic character of a building. The window installers who provide replacement windows must be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that replacement windows are approved by the Building Regulations as a suitable option. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to original building's character. This is especially true when windows are installed in listed buildings and conservation areas.