Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is an essential element of a building that is historic. It is a representation of the materials and technologies design, craftsmanship and aesthetics of the period from which it dates.

If possible, repairs should be made on-site. Repairing the most severe areas of decay can be done with the help of specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

The timber windows in many historical buildings were built to last for hundreds of years. But, they have to be maintained to ensure they look good and operating properly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables as well as tightening the pulleys for sash and painting. The demand for enhancing windows made of timber to increase efficiency in energy use is also growing. This may mean replacing old glazing units, repairing the window rebates that are in place, or installing new cills that allow for better air sealing.

The corrosion of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is especially true when sash windows are concerned as the gaps between sashes may be quite large. In these circumstances water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood beneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the decay. To prevent this windows from becoming rotten, they must be painted regularly with a suitable exterior wood paint.

Areas that have been damaged must also be repaired using resin-based products. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric remains. It is essential to limit the number of holes that are drilled into the frame to allow cable entry as these can admit moisture and cause decay.

Another significant problem with older windows is the structural movement within the wall that could cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly and jamming or sticking to the opening and cracked glazing. This is often corrected by putting in new sash frames constructed of slow-grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be made from a sturdy hardwood, like oak, in order to prevent any the movement of new and older work.

There are several companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash to fit most existing openings. They are available in various sizes and finishes to meet the requirements of modern homeowners. The new sash, combined with quadruple draft strip and a better thermal insulation, can make a significant difference to the efficiency of a home's energy use.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value since they usually demonstrate, in a way the materials and technologies and architectural taste of the time from which they originate. They may also have significant historical significance as a set. This is particularly true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed structures, which were merely a series of openings in the frame, which were divided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into wood or iron bars to deter intrusions.

Traditional window joinery made from timber is a beautiful aspect of a building, and is essential to maintain its appearance. As soon as you notice any signs of decay caused by the penetration of moisture it is essential to stop it. It is recommended to do this through thorough painting, especially where there is damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints that are 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 number of coats required at each stage.

Wet rot is a common issue in old timber windows and the best method to stop it from developing is to remove any damaged or rotten sections as soon as you can to prevent the spread of the fungus responsible for it. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine) and, when possible, the exact kind of timber as the one being removed, to avoid any differential movement.

In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became cheaper and more plentiful so that double glazed door seal repairs openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated, with tracery made of wood as well as moulded mullions and protruding cills. In recent times, glass was fixed into rebated frames with glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak and also allows wider sheets of clearer glass to be employed than would be possible otherwise without the use of leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness, multilayer construction and care for particulars. The large glass surfaces, the deep projecting cills and large glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, the windows can be improved to improve their energy efficiency. However, it is important to keep in mind that these measures should be viewed in terms of the overall appearance and integrity of the original window seal repairs near me.

It makes sense to repair or upgrade existing windows that are older rather than replacing them, especially when the improvements in thermal efficiency can be made by simple repairs. Older windows typically have a historical value that shows a variety of technological advancement and changes in architectural style. Most people assume that the windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, most can still provide service for 150,200, and even 250 years if you take care of maintenance.

It is essential to understand that the decay problems associated with traditional timber windows can be prevented by regular maintenance and timely repairs. Additionally it is crucial to identify damp penetration problems and fix them promptly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint can be a problem because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, causing wet rot. It is not uncommon for this issue to go unnoticed until the paintwork begins to crack or becomes curly. However, it could cause structural damage and then further decay.

A quality paint will stop moisture from entering the paint. It is also necessary to keep the paintwork in good condition in order to prevent condensation and mould growth. Modern synthetic paints pose a problem because they are often water-resistant, and can cause mildew to grow within the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were made from timber that contained a high proportion of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate quickly when exposed to rain, but they can be protected with a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is also crucial to ensure that the type of wood used is suitable to the location and climate conditions, as these elements will influence the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide various types of sash made from timber that can be made to fit the historic openings. They can be built to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that fit with the historic architecture.

Maintenance

Regular inspections as well as careful redecoration and quick repairs can prolong the life of wooden windows. The primary cause of wood decay is moisture penetration through deteriorated paint or putty. This can be prevented by thorough painting and using a good quality wood preservative.

Repairs to old sash windows as well as window frames made of casement must be done with care and with minimal disruption. Many traditional timber window designs can be repaired without dismantling the frame, and this method should be used whenever it is possible. Paint that is peeling or loose should be removed with care and sanded lightly to increase the "key" of the surface and facilitate an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is crucial to not remove old paint layers that could have historical significance.

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

Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u may be an attractive option, especially when the installer offers a "one-stop shop" installation that takes care of removal and replacement in one day. However, it is crucial that the person who installs windows replacement has a thorough knowledge of the structure and history of traditional wooden frames. This will allow them to make appropriate suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technical upgrades that will not harm the character of a historic building. The windows that are replaced must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved as a suitable option under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can install PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to the original character of the building. This is especially applicable when windows are in listed buildings or conservation areas.