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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained wooden Window Doctor Near Me is an important element of a building that is historic. It reflects in varying levels, the materials and techniques of the time it was constructed, as well as the architectural style and craftsmanship.

When repairs are feasible to existing windows should be done in-situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay is possible using proprietary resin-based systems.

Durability

The windows made of wood in many old structures were designed to last for a long time. However, they do need to be maintained to keep them looking good and operating correctly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables and retightening pulleys for sash and painting. There is a growing need to upgrade timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This could include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates, or installing new cills to increase the air door seal repair near me.

One of the main issues with traditional windows is damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important when sash windows are involved as the gaps between sashes can be quite wide. In these instances water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty as well as underlying wood. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the rotting. To prevent this from happening, windows should be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.

Corroded areas should be repaired with a resin-based product. This will ensure that the highest possible amount of the original fabric remains. It is also essential to minimise the number of holes that are drilled into the frame for cable entry as these can allow water in and cause decay.

Another significant problem with older windows is the structural movement within the wall which can lead to deformation of the frame and sash window repair cambridge. This could result in sash not fitting correctly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and even broken glass. Often this can be corrected by the fitting of new sash boxes constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed from durable hardwood such as oak to prevent movement between the existing and new work.

There are several companies that make Boston pattern wooden windows and doors cambridge sash that fit most existing openings. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit the needs of today's homeowner. Together with quadruple draught strips and a better thermal insulation, these new sash can make a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value since they usually illustrate, in some way, the materials and technology and architectural taste of the time from which they originate. They also may have significant historical value in their in their own right. This is especially true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber framed buildings which were merely a series of openings within the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions and iron or wood bars to deter intruders.

Traditional timber window joinery can be a highly decorative element of a structure and is essential to keep its appearance. As soon as you notice any signs of decay due to moisture penetration, it is important to stop it. It is best to do this by thorough painting, particularly if there has been damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints specifically designed to be used part of the system (primer undercoat, finish) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations in terms of preparation and the number of coats needed at each stage.

Wet rot is a typical problem in old timber windows and the best way to stop it developing is to remove any damaged or rotten sections immediately to stop the spread of the fungus that causes it. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine), and should it be possible, the same kind of timber as the one that is being removed, to prevent differential movement.

Glass became more affordable and abundant during the late medieval period and into the 17th century. As a result, the glazed openings in timber-framed homes became more complex with moulded mullions, wooden tracery and deep projecting cills. In the past, more often, the glass was placed within frames with rebates and then pinned by 'glazing sprigs' rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less prone to leaks but also allows for more expansive clearer, more transparent sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would have been possible without the need for lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows provide an excellent energy performance due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very attentive attention to detail. They also feature large glass areas and projection cills which reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, the windows can be improved to increase their energy efficiency. It is important to remember that these measures must be considered in relation to the overall integrity and look of the original windows.

It is logical to repair or upgrade existing windows, rather than replacing them, particularly when improvement in thermal efficiency can be achieved through simple fixes. Historic windows often have an historic value that illustrates a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural style. The pressures to replace these windows are usually based on the assumption that the windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, but most are still in a position to last for 150, 200 or even 250 years if properly maintained.

It is crucial to recognize that the decay problems caused by traditional timber windows can be avoided by thorough maintenance and timely repairs. Additionally it is vital to spot damp penetration issues and address them swiftly to avoid major 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 undetected until the paintwork begins to crack or becomes curly. However, it can cause structural damage and lead to further decay.

A good quality paint will prevent this moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints pose a problem because they are water-resistant and may cause mildew growth in the window frame.

The majority of older windows were manufactured from timber containing the majority of sapwood. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration rapidly if exposed to wet weather conditions, but they can be protected with an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are put to use. It is crucial to select the right type of wood for the site and the climate, since these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers make various types of timber sash that can be adapted to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to suit historic structures.

Maintenance

The life span of windows made from timber can be extended by regular inspection as well as a careful redecoration and timely repair. The major cause of decay is the penetration of moisture through deteriorated paint or putty. This can be prevented by using a good wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.

Repairs to sash windows that are old and window frames made of casement must be done with care and with the least amount of disruption. It is possible to repair many traditional timber window designs without removing the frame. This should be done as often as is feasible. Paint that is peeling or loose should be removed with care and sanded lightly to increase the key of the surface and allow for a better adhesion of the new coating. It is essential to not remove old paint layers, which could have historical significance.

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

Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u can be an appealing option, particularly when the installer offers a "one-stop shop" installation service that can handle removal and replacement within a day. It is important that the installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the appropriate suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technical improvements that do not alter the character of a historic building. The windows that are replaced should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed acceptable in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. It is quite possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-u windows that match the character of the building originally. This is especially true when the windows are in listed buildings or conservation areas.