A Guide To Cambridge Window From Start To Finish

Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden window is a crucial component of a historical building. It is a representation of the materials and technologies as well as the craftsmanship and architectural style of the time that it was built in.

When possible, repairs should be made on-site. Repairing the worst areas of decay can be accomplished with the help of specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

The windows made of timber in many historic structures were designed to last for hundreds of years. But, they have to be maintained to ensure that they look great and working properly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables and retightening sash pulleys and painting. The need to upgrade timber windows in order to increase energy efficiency is also growing. This can include replacing old glazing units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills for improved air seal.

One of the major issues with traditional windows is damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly true when windows made of sash are involved because the gaps between sashes can be very wide. In these situations water can get into paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty beneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the decay. To stop this from happening, windows should be painted regularly using a suitable exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas should be repaired with a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the highest possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is also important to limit the number of holes that are drilled into the frame for cable entry as these can admit water and lead to decay.

Another major issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall which could cause deformation of the frame and sash. This could result in sash no longer fitting correctly or sticking or jamming into the opening and broken glazing. Often this can be corrected by the fitting of new sash boxes that have been made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be constructed from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to avoid differential movement between the new and existing work.

There are several companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash to fit most existing openings. The sash is available in a range of sizes and finishes to suit the needs of today's homeowner. These new sash, when combined with quadruple draft strip and a better thermal insulation, can make a significant difference to the energy-efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames possess a dazzling aesthetic appeal because they display, in a certain form, the quality of the wood technology, design, and style of the time they were made. They could also have significant historical value in their own right. This is especially true of early windows that were not glazed in timber framed buildings which were simply a series of openings in the frame, which were divided horizontally into mullions and vertical wood or iron bars to deter intrusions.

It is crucial to maintain the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. As soon as you notice any signs of decay caused by water penetration it is essential to stop it. It is best to do this through thorough painting, especially if there is damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints that are 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.

The fungus that causes wet rot can spread quickly in old timber windows. To prevent this from happening, get rid of any rotten or damaged parts as soon as you can. The replacement of rotting timber should be done with care and by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, if feasible, the same species as that which is being removed to prevent differential movement between the new section and the existing timbers.

In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became less expensive and more abundant, so that the glazed openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated, with tracery made of wood moulded mullions, moulded mullions, and deep protruding cills. The glazing was increasingly set within rebated frames and pinned in by 'glazing sprigs' rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaking but it can allow for much wider and clearer sheets of glass to be used in windows than would otherwise have been possible without the need for lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows provide an excellent energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay attentive attention to detail. The large glass surfaces, the deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. The windows can be made to improve their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However, it is important to remember that such measures must be considered in terms of the overall quality and appearance of the original window.

As a result, retaining the existing windows from the past that are in need of repair rather than replacing them is logical especially when their thermal enhancements can be made inexpensively with simple repairs and improvements. The windows that are historic have a lot of historical significance, since they show a range in technological advancements and changes to the architectural style. Most people think that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, many of them can still provide service for 150,200, and even 250 years with proper maintenance.

It is crucial to recognize that the decay issues that are that are typical of timber windows can be avoided by regular maintenance and prompt repairs. It is also essential to spot damp issues and address them promptly to avoid major damage. Early paint deterioration is a major problem because it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. The damage is usually not apparent until the paintwork is wavy or cracked however, it can cause serious structural damage, and could lead to further decay.

A paint of good quality will prevent moisture penetration. To avoid condensation and mould it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as it can be. The use of modern synthetic paints can pose a problem, as they are often formulated to be water-resistant, and this can result in the formation of mildew within the window frame.

The majority of older windows were made from timber that contained the majority of sapwood. These timbers deteriorate quickly if exposed to rain, but they can be preserved with a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is important to choose the appropriate type of wood for the location and the climate, since these factors will affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers create a range of sash made of timber that can be adapted to fit specific historic openings. They can be made to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom dimensions that are compatible with the historic architecture.

Maintenance

The life span of windows made from timber can be extended considerably by regular inspection, careful redecoration and timely repair. The main reason for decay is the infiltration of moisture through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be avoided by using a high-quality wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.

Repairs to old sash windows and casement window frames must be done with care and minimal disruption. Repairs can be made to many traditional timber window designs without having to remove the frame. This should be done as often as is feasible. Loose or peeling paint should be removed with care and lightly sanded to improve the "key" of the surface and allow for an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid removing old paint layers, as they may have historical value.

When a section of wood is rotting the best option is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts shaped to match existing profiles. The wood that is being inserted should be treated with a wood preserver and the joint between the timber cill and sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.

Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u may be an appealing option, particularly when the installer offers a 'one stop shop' installation service that can handle removal and replacement within the span of a day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows have a thorough understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements as well as other technological upgrades that won't alter the appearance of a historic building. The windows that are replaced must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA.  cambridge window repair RepairMyWindowsAndDoors  will ensure that the replacements are approved as a suitable solution under Building Regulations. It is certainly possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-u windows that are sympathetic to the character of the original building. This is especially true where windows are situated in listed buildings and conservation areas.