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Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained wooden window is an essential element of a building that is historic. It reflects, in various degree the technology and materials of the time in which it was constructed, the design and craftsmanship. If possible, repairs should be made in-situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to repair the worst areas of decay without removing the entire window. Durability The timber windows in many historical structures were designed to last for centuries. However, they need to be maintained to keep them looking good and functioning correctly. window repair cambridge repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk include sash cord repairs as well as tightening the pulleys on sash, and painting. The demand for upgrading windows made of timber to improve energy efficiency is also growing. This can include replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window rebates, or installing new cills for improved air seal. The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is especially important where windows with sash are involved since the gaps between the sashes can be quite large. In these circumstances water may get through the paint film and cause decay of the putty and the wood beneath. The rotting process can be made worse by poor weather conditions. To avoid this windows from becoming rotten, they must be regularly painted with a suitable exterior wood paint. In addition to repainting, corroded areas must be repaired using an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure the maximum amount of original fabric is retained. It is also important to limit the number of holes drilled into the frame to allow cable entry since these could admit water and lead to decay. Another significant problem with older windows is structural movement in the wall that can lead to deformation of the frame and the sash. This could result in the sash not fitting properly, sticking or jamming in the opening, and damaged glazing. This can be fixed frequently by fitting new sash frames constructed of slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be made from durable hardwood such as oak to avoid any movement between the new and existing work. To alleviate this issue, there are now a variety of companies that manufacture Boston pattern sash made of wood that can be fitted into most openings. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit the needs of today's homeowner. These sash are combined with quadruple draft strip and a more efficient thermal insulation, could make a significant difference to the efficiency of a home's energy use. Aesthetics A lot of old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal, as they show, in some form, the quality of the wood, technology, and architectural aesthetics of the time they were built. 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 structures, where the great majority were merely a series of openings within the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions and vertical wood or iron bars to keep out invaders. Traditional window joinery made of timber can be a highly decorative feature of a building and is crucial to maintain its appearance. When you spot any signs of decay due to water penetration, it is important to stop it. This can be done by painting thoroughly, especially in areas where there has already been damage or degradation. It is best to choose paints that are intended to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number of coats 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 rotten or damaged parts as soon as you can. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine), and should it be possible, the same type of timber as the one being removed, to prevent differential movement. Glass became less expensive 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 deep cills projecting into the air. In the past, more often, the glass was placed within frames with rebates and secured with 'glazing sprigs', rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaks but it can allow for much wider and clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would have been possible without the need for leaded lights. Energy efficiency Traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness, multilayer construction and care for the smallest of details. The large glass areas, deep projection cills and wide glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. The windows can be modified to improve their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However, it is important to remember that such measures must be considered in the context of the overall quality and appearance of the original window. So, retaining old windows that require repair instead of replacing them is logical especially when their thermal improvements can be achieved economically through simple repairs and upgrades. The windows of the past often have an historic value that illustrates a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural tastes. Most people think that these windows will have to be replaced in the near future. However, they will last for 150,200, and even 250 years if they are maintained with proper maintenance. It is essential to realize that decay issues with traditional timber windows are avoidable with timely and thorough repairs. In addition, it is essential to recognize damp penetration issues and fix them promptly to avoid serious damage. The early deterioration of paint is a major problem as it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. This damage is often not apparent until the paintwork becomes wavy or cracked, but can cause significant structural damage, and could lead to further decay. A good quality paint will prevent this moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints can be problematic because they are usually designed to be water-resistant and this can lead to the formation of mildew inside the window frame. The majority of older windows were constructed from sapwood-rich wood. These timbers can deteriorate quickly when exposed to rain, but they can be protected by a thorough preservation treatment before use. It is essential to select the right type of wood for your location and climate, as these factors can affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer an array of timber sash which can be made to fit the historic openings. They are available in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to suit the architectural style of historic buildings. Maintenance The life of timber windows can be extended significantly through regular inspections carefully redecoration, and prompt repair. The major cause of decay is the penetration of moisture through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by using a high-quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly. It is essential that repairs to old sash and casement windows are done correctly, and carried out with minimal disruption. It is possible to fix the majority of traditional wooden window designs without having to remove the frame. This is a must whenever it is possible. Loose or peeling paint should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to increase the “key” of the surface and allow for an easier adhesion of the new coating. It is crucial to not remove old paint layers, which could have historical significance. When a piece of wood has begun to decay, the best way to proceed is to remove the rotted material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to fit the existing profiles. The inserted timber should also 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 using PVC-u may be an appealing option, particularly when the installer offers a 'one stop shop' installation that handles both removal and replacement within one day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make appropriate recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological upgrades that won't affect the appearance of a historic building. The windows that are replaced should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed as a suitable option under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u windows that conform to the original building's style. This is particularly true where windows are situated in listed buildings and conservation areas.