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Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained wooden window is an important component of a historical building. It reflects, in various degrees, the materials and techniques of the time it was constructed, as well as the craftsmanship and architectural taste. If possible, repairs should be done in-situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to repair the most deteriorated areas without removing the whole window. Durability Timber windows were made to last hundreds of years. However, they need to be maintained to ensure they look good and operating properly. The most frequent maintenance tasks are repairs to sash-cords and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. There is also a rising demand for upgrading timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This could include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates or installing new cills for improved air seal. The corrosion of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is particularly important when sash windows are concerned because the gaps between sashes can often be quite large. In these situations, water can penetrate the paint film and cause rotting of the putty as well as the wood underneath. The rotting can be exacerbated by poor weather conditions. To stop this from happening windows, they should be painted regularly with a suitable exterior wood paint. In addition to repainting, corroded areas must be repaired using a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the maximum amount of the original fabric is retained. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes drilled in the frame to allow cable access, as these can admit moisture and cause decay. Another significant problem with older windows is the structural movement within the wall that can cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can lead to the sash fitting incorrectly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and broken glass. This can often be fixed through the installation of new sash boxes constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed of a strong hardwood such as oak, to avoid the movement of new and existing work. To help reduce this problem, there are now several companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit into the majority of existing openings. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes that meet the requirements of the modern homeowner. Combined with quadruple draught strips and better thermal insulation these sashes can make a an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of your home. Aesthetics Many old timber frames have a great aesthetic appeal because they display, in a certain shape, the materials technology, the construction process, and the architectural aesthetics of the time they were constructed. They also may have a significant historic value in their individual cases. This is particularly true for windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed buildings, in which the majority were series openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions with vertical wood or iron bars to keep out invaders. It is crucial to maintain the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. As soon as you see any signs of decay due to the penetration of moisture, it is important to stop it. This can be done by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas in which there is already damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints specifically designed to be used as part of the system (primer, undercoat and finish) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations in relation to preparation and the amount of coats needed at each stage. Wet rot is a frequent problem in old timber windows. The best way to stop it growing is to eliminate sections that are damaged or rotten as soon as you can to stop the spread of the fungus that causes it. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine) and, should it be possible, the same kind of timber that is being removed, to avoid any differential movement. In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became cheaper and more abundant, so that the glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became more sophisticated with wooden tracery, moulded mullions and deep protruding cills. The glazing was increasingly laid within rebated frames and pinned in with 'glazing sprigs', rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak and also allows larger sheets of glass to be utilized than would have been feasible without the use of leaded lights. Energy efficiency Traditional timber windows have an excellent energy performance due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very careful attention to detailing. They also feature large glass areas as well as deep projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. The windows can be made to improve their energy efficiency by draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However it is essential to keep in mind that any such measures should be evaluated in the context of the overall appearance and integrity of the original window. So, retaining the existing windows from the past that require repair instead of replacing them is logical particularly when thermal enhancements can be achieved cost-effectively through simple repairs and upgrades. The windows of the past often have a historical value that demonstrates a range of technical development and changes in architectural taste. The pressures to replace such windows are typically based on the assumption that windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, but most are still capable of providing service for 150, 200 and even 250 years if they are properly maintained. It is crucial to recognize that the decay issues associated with traditional timber windows can be prevented through regular maintenance and timely repairs. It is also crucial to spot damp issues and correct them swiftly to avoid major damage. Early deterioration of paint is a particular problem, as it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go unnoticed until paintwork starts to crack or turn curly. However, it can cause structural damage and lead to further decay. A paint of good quality will stop moisture from entering the paint. turning lock cambridge is also important to keep the paintwork in good condition in order to prevent mould and condensation. Modern synthetic paints pose a problem since they are usually water-resistant and may cause mildew growth within the window frame. The majority of older windows were constructed from sapwood-rich timber. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration rapidly if exposed to wet weather, however they can be protected with a thorough treatment of preservative before they are used. It is also essential to ensure that the kind of wood used is suitable to the location and climate conditions, as these elements will influence the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers make various types of timber sash that can be tailored to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be built according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that fit with the historic architecture. Maintenance The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended considerably through regular inspections carefully redecoration, and timely repair. The primary cause of decay is the infiltration of moisture through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a good wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood. Repairs to old sash windows and frameless casement windows should be handled with care and minimal disruption. Many of the traditional designs for timber windows can be repaired without removing the frame, and this method should be followed whenever possible. Loose or peeling paint should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to increase the 'key' of the surface and facilitate an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is crucial to avoid removing old paint layers, as they could have historical significance. If a piece of wood is decayed 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 inserts should be treated with a wood preservative, and the joint between the masonry sub-cill and the timber cill should be sealed. Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u is a tempting option, especially when the installer offers an “all-in-one” installation service that can handle both removal and replacement within one day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows have a thorough understanding of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the right recommendations for energy efficiency improvements and other technical improvements 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 deemed to be approved under Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u windows that conform to the original building's style. This is particularly relevant when windows are in conservation areas or listed buildings.