Maintaining https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/cambridge-windowrepair/ -maintained wooden window is a crucial element of a building that is historic. It is a representation of the different materials and technologies as well as the craftsmanship and architectural style of the period from which it dates. If repairs are possible to windows that are already in use should be done in situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay can be done by using specialized resin-based systems. Durability Timber windows were built to last for centuries. However, they need to be maintained to ensure they look good and operating correctly. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords, re-tightening sash pulleys, and painting. The demand for upgrading timber windows to increase efficiency in energy use is also growing. This can involve replacing old glass units, fixing existing window rebates or putting up new cills to allow for better air sealing. One of the major issues with traditional windows is the damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important when it comes to sash windows because the gaps between sashes can be very large. In these circumstances, water can penetrate the paint film and cause rotting of the putty as well as the wood underneath. The weather can be a factor in accelerating the decay. To stop this from happening, windows should be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint. In addition to repainting, corroded areas must be repaired using an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is also important to minimise the number of holes 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 the sash. This can result in sash not fitting correctly and jamming or sticking into the opening, and broken glass. This can be fixed frequently by fitting new frames for sash made of slow-grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be made from a sturdy hardwood, like oak, in order to prevent any differential movement between new and older work. There are now several companies that make Boston pattern wooden sash that fit in with the majority of openings. They are available in various sizes and finishes to fit the needs of modern homeowners. Combined with quadruple draught strips and a better thermal insulation, these new sash options can make an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a home. Aesthetics A lot of old timber frames possess a dazzling aesthetic appeal, as they show, in some form, the quality of the wood, technology, and architectural taste from the time period they were built. They could have significant historical significance in their own right. This is especially true of early windows that were not glazed in timber framed buildings which were just a collection of openings within the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions and vertical wood or iron bars to deter invaders. It is essential to preserve the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. It is essential that any decay that results from water penetration is removed as soon as it is identified. It is best to do this with thorough painting, especially if there has been 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 regarding preparation and the number of coats needed at each stage. Wet rot is a frequent problem for old timber windows and the best method to stop it from growing is to eliminate sections that are damaged or rotten immediately to stop the spread of the fungus responsible for it. The replacement of rotting wood must be done with care by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, wherever possible using the same species as that which is being removed to prevent any movement differences between the new section and existing timbers. Glass became less expensive and more abundant in the late medieval period and into the 17th century. As a result, the glazed openings in timber-framed homes were more elaborate, with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and deep cills projecting into the air. In recent years, glass was fixed into rebated frames with glazing sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaks but it also allows larger, clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would be possible without the need for leaded lights. Energy efficiency Traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction as well as attention to detail. The large glass areas, deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas minimize air infiltration. The windows can be modified to increase their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. It is essential to remember that these measures need to be taken into consideration in relation to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows. Therefore, keeping old windows that are in need of repair rather than replacing them makes sense especially when their thermal enhancements can be achieved inexpensively with simple repairs and upgrades. Historic windows are often of historical value, as they demonstrate a variety in technological advancements and changes to the architectural style. Most people think that these windows will have to be replaced in the near future. However, many of them will last for 150, 200 or even 250 years with proper maintenance. It is important to recognise that the decay issues that are associated with traditional windows made of timber can be avoided by regular maintenance and timely repairs. It is also essential to spot damp issues and address them promptly in order to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint could be a problem as it allows moisture to get into the wood, which can cause wet rot. This damage is often not noticed until the paintwork is damaged or wavy however, it can cause serious structural damage and can lead to further decay. A good paint will prevent moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. Modern synthetic paints pose a challenge because they are water-resistant and may cause mildew to develop within the window frame. The majority of windows from the past were constructed from timber with an extensive proportion of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to wet weather conditions, but they can be protected by an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are put to use. It is also important to ensure that the type of wood used is suited to the location and climate conditions, as these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer an array of sash made from timber that can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be made to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to specific sizes that are in keeping with the architectural style of historic buildings. Maintenance The life of timber windows can be extended considerably through regular inspections, careful redecoration and timely repair. The main cause of decay is the infiltration of moisture through the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a quality wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood. It is crucial that repairs to the old sash and casement windows are done correctly and done with minimal disruption. It is possible to repair many traditional timber window designs without removing the frame. This should be done whenever possible. Loose or peeling paint must be removed with care and sanded lightly to improve the 'key' of the surface, allowing for a better adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid removing old paint layers, as they may have historical value. If a portion of wood has rotted the best way to deal with it is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts designed to match existing profiles. The timber that is inserted should be treated with a wood preservative. The junction between masonry sub-cill and timber cill should be sealed. It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC U, particularly when the installer offers an installation that includes both removal and replacement in a single day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the right recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological improvements that don't affect the appearance of an historic building. Anyone who installs replacement windows must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed to be approved in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. It is certainly possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-U windows that match the the original building. This is particularly true when the windows are situated within conservation areas or listed buildings.