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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is a crucial part of a historic building. It reflects in varying levels, the technology and materials of the time it was made, the design and craftsmanship.

If possible, repairs should be done in-situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to fix the worst areas of decay without removing the whole upvc repairs near me window lock repair (talking to).

Durability

The timber windows in many historic buildings were built to last for a long time. They do require maintenance to ensure they look good. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. The need to upgrade timber windows to increase energy efficiency is also growing. This may include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates, or installing new cills to improve air door seal repair near me.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is especially true when it comes to sash windows as the gaps between sashes can often be very large. In these circumstances water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood underneath. The weather can be a factor in accelerating the rotting. To prevent this, windows should be painted regularly using an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

Areas that have been damaged must be repaired with a resin-based product. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is also important to minimise the number of holes you drill into the frame for cable entry as these can allow water in and cause decay.

Another major 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 not fitting correctly jamming, sticking or sagging in the opening, and even broken glass. Most often, this is corrected by the fitting of new sash boxes that have been made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be made from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to avoid any movement between the old and new work.

To help reduce this problem There are several companies that produce Boston pattern sash made of wood that can be fitted into most openings. The sash is available in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit the needs of the modern homeowner. These sash are coupled with quadruple draft strips and improved 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 show, in some shape, the materials technology, design, and style of the time they were made. They may also have a significant historic value in their own right. This is especially true for early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, where the great majority were merely a series of openings within the frame, which were divided horizontally into mullions and iron or wood bars to keep out intrusions.

It is crucial to maintain the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. It is crucial that any decay that results from moisture penetration should be immediately stopped once it is recognised. This is best accomplished by painting thoroughly, especially in areas where there has already been damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints designed to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish) and to adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for preparation and number of coats at each stage.

Wet rot is a common problem in older timber windows. The best way to stop it growing is to eliminate any damaged or rotten sections as soon as you can to stop the spread of the fungus responsible for it. The replacement of rotting timber should be done with care and using slow grown deal (pine) and, if feasible using the same species as that which is being removed in order to prevent shifting between the new and old timbers.

Glass became more affordable and abundant during the late medieval period and into the 17th century. This led to the openings for glazed windows on timber-framed houses were more elaborate, with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and cills that protruded deep. In recent years, glass was fixed to frames that were rebated with glazing sprigs instead of lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak and break, but also allows wider sheets of clearer glass to be utilized than would have been feasible without the use of lead lights.

Energy efficiency

The traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction as well as focus on particulars. The large glass areas, the deep projecting cills and large glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, windows can be upgraded to improve their energy efficiency. However, it is important to remember that such measures must be considered in relation to the overall quality and appearance of the original window.

Therefore, keeping old windows that are in need of repair instead of replacing them is logical particularly when thermal improvements can be achieved cost-effectively through simple repairs and upgrades. The windows of the past often have historical significance that demonstrates a range of technological advancement and changes in architectural taste. The pressures to replace such windows are typically based on the assumption that windows that are old will need to be replaced in the near future, but most are still in a position to last for 150, 200 or even 250 years, if properly maintained.

It is essential to realize that decay issues associated with traditional timber windows can be easily prevented with quick and thorough repairs. Additionally it is vital to identify damp penetration problems and fix them promptly to avoid serious damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early could be a problem as it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, causing wet rot. The damage is usually not apparent until the paintwork becomes cracking or wavy however, it can cause serious structural damage and lead to further decay.

A good quality paint will stop this moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. Modern synthetic paints can be problematic since they are typically designed to be water-resistant and this may result in the formation of mildew in the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed from sapwood-rich timber. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to wet weather, however they can be protected by an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are used. It is essential to select the right type of wood for your location and the climate, since these factors can affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers create a variety of timber sash that can be adapted to fit specific openings from the past. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to historical structures.

Maintenance

The life of timber windows can be extended by regular inspection as well as a careful redecoration and prompt repair. The main cause of decay is the penetration of moisture through deteriorated paint or putty. This can be avoided by using a high-quality wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.

It is essential that repairs to old sash and casement windows are well executed, and carried out with minimal disruption. Many traditional timber window designs are repairable without removing the frame, and this option should be used whenever it is possible. Peeling or loose paint should be removed carefully and lightly sanded to improve the 'key' of the surface and facilitate an easier adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid stripping old paint layers which may have historic value and if they are present, it is recommended that a paint analysis be carried out.

If a portion of wood is decayed the best way to deal with it is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts designed to match existing profiles. The wood that is inserted should be treated with a wood preservative, and the junction between the cill for timber and the sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.

Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u is a tempting option, especially when the installer provides a "one-stop shop" installation that takes care of both removal and replacement within a day. It is important that the installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological advancements that won't harm the character of an historic building. Window replacements should be registered with 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 can install PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to the original building's style. This is especially relevant when windows are located within listed buildings or conservation areas.