What Cambridge Window Experts Want You To Be Educated

Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained and maintained timber window is a crucial element of the historic structure of a building. It is a representation of the different materials and technologies, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the period that it was built in.

If repairs are possible to existing windows are required, they should be done in situ. Repairing the most deteriorated areas of decay is possible by using specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last hundreds of years. They do require maintenance to keep them looking great. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords as well as tightening the sash pulleys and painting. The need to upgrade timber windows to increase energy efficiency is also growing. This can include replacing old cambridge Double glazing units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills to increase the air seal.

One of the major issues with traditional windows is the damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially true in the case of sash windows as the gaps between sashes can be quite large. In these situations water can get into paint film and cause rotting to the wood or putty beneath. The rotting may be further aggravated due to weather conditions that are poor. To stop this from happening, windows need to be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.

Corroded areas should also be repaired using a resin-based product. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric remains. It is essential to limit the number of holes that are made into the frame to allow cable entry, as these can admit moisture and cause decay.

Another significant problem with older windows is structural movement in the wall which can lead to deformation of the frame and the sash. This could result in sash no longer fitting correctly, sticking or jamming in the opening and broken glazing. This can be corrected often by putting in new sash frames constructed of slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill needs to be constructed of a durable hardwood, like oak, to prevent differential movement between new and existing work.

To reduce the risk to reduce the risk of this happening, there are several companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash that can be fitted into most openings. These sash are available in a range of sizes and finishes that meet the needs of the modern homeowner. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and a better thermal insulation, these new sash can make significant improvements to the energy efficiency of a house.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value since they usually demonstrate, in a way, the materials and technology and architectural style of the period from which they date. They could have significant historical value in their own right. This is especially true for windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber framed buildings which were merely a series of openings in the frame, which were divided horizontally into mullions and wood or iron bars to keep out intruders.

Traditional window joinery made from timber is a beautiful feature of a building and is crucial to keep it looking good. As soon as you notice any signs of decay caused by the penetration of moisture it is essential to stop it. This can be done by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas in which there is already damage or degradation. It is best to choose paints that are intended to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish) and to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preparation and number of coats at each stage.

Wet rot is a frequent problem for old timber windows and the best way to stop it developing is to remove any damaged or rotten parts as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the fungus responsible for it. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine), and if possible, the same type of wood as the one being removed, to prevent the possibility of differential movement.

In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became less expensive and more abundant, so that the double glazed door repairs openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became sophisticated with wooden tracery, moulded mullions and deep projection cills. In recent years, glazing was fixed to frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs instead of lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaks but also allows for more expansive 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 offer excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay attentive attention to detail. They also have large glass areas as well as deep projection cills which reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing windows can be made more efficient to increase their energy efficiency. However it is essential to keep in mind that any such measures should be viewed in the context of the overall integrity and appearance of the original window.

It is sensible to repair or upgrade existing windows, rather than replacing them, especially when the improvement in thermal efficiency can be achieved through simple fixes. The windows of the past often have an historic value that shows a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural style. Many people believe that these windows will have to be replaced in the near future. However, many of them are still in service for 150, 200 or even 250 years if you take care of maintenance.

It is essential to realize that decay issues with traditional timber windows are easily prevented with timely and thorough repairs. Additionally, it is essential to recognize damp penetration issues and fix them promptly to avoid serious damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early is a concern because it allows moisture to get into the wood, which can cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this type of damage to go unnoticed until the paintwork begins to crack or become wavy. However, it could cause structural damage and then further decay.

A good quality paint will prevent this moisture penetration. To prevent condensation and mould it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as it can be. Modern synthetic paints can be problematic because they are usually designed to be water-resistant and this may cause the growth of mildew inside the window doctor frame.

The majority of older windows were constructed from sapwood-rich wood. These timbers can deteriorate very rapidly if exposed to wet weather, however they can be preserved with an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are put to use. It is also essential to ensure that the type of timber used is well-suited to the site and climate conditions, as these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide an array of sash made from timber that can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be constructed to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that fit with historic buildings.

Maintenance

The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended considerably through regular inspections as well as a careful redecoration and prompt repair. The primary cause of wood decay is moisture penetration through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided with careful painting and the use of a good quality wood preservative.

Repairs to sash windows that are old and window frames made of casement should be done with care and with the least amount of disruption. A lot of traditional wooden window designs can be repaired without dismantling the frame, and this approach should be followed whenever possible. Remove peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the area to improve the "key" of the surface. This will allow the new coating to stick better. It is essential to not remove old paint layers that could have historical significance.

If a portion of wood is rotting the best option is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts designed to match the existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with wood preservative and the joint between the cill for timber and the sub-cill for masonry should be sealed.

It's tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, especially when the installer offers an installation that includes both removal and replacement in a single day. It is essential that installers of cambridge replacement windows windows have a deep understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the right recommendations for energy efficiency improvements as well as other technological improvements that don't affect the appearance of a historic building. Window replacements should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are deemed to be approved under Building Regulations as a suitable option. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u windows that are suited to original building's character. This is particularly true where windows are situated in listed buildings and conservation areas.