Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained timber window is a significant element of the historic fabric of a structure. It reflects, in various degree the materials and techniques of the time period it was constructed, as well as the craftsmanship and architectural taste. If possible, repairs should be done in-situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay can be accomplished with the help of specialized resin-based systems. Durability Timber windows were designed to last hundreds of years. They do require maintenance to keep them looking good. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. The need to upgrade windows made of timber to improve efficiency and energy efficiency is also increasing. This can involve replacing old glazing units, fixing the window rebates that are in place, or installing new cills to allow for improved air sealing. The corrosion of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is particularly important when windows with sash are involved since the gaps between the sashes can be extremely large. In these situations, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty beneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the decay. To stop this from happening, windows should be painted regularly using a suitable exterior wood paint. In addition to repainting, corroded areas should be repaired with the help of a resin-based repair solution. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes made into the frame in order to allow cable entry, since they can let in moisture and cause decay. Another major issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall, which could cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can result in the sash not fitting properly and jamming or sticking to the opening, and damaged glazing. This is often corrected by putting in new sash frames constructed of slow-grown deal (pine), or oak. The cill should be constructed from a sturdy hardwood, like oak, in order to prevent any the movement of new and old work. To help reduce this problem There are several companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit most existing openings. These sash come in various sizes and finishes that will fit the needs of modern homeowners. Combined with quadruple draught strips and improved thermal insulation, these new sash can make an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a home. Aesthetics Many old timber frames possess a dazzling aesthetic appeal because they display, in a certain form, the materials, technology, and architectural style of the time they were constructed. They also may have a significant historical significance in their individual cases. This is especially true for early unglazed window openings in timber framed buildings which were simply a series of openings in the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into iron or wood bars to deter intruders. It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. It is essential that any decay caused by water penetration is stopped as soon as it is identified. This is best done by a thorough painting process, especially in areas where there has already been damage or degradation. It is best to use paints designed to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish) and to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number coats at each stage. Wet rot is a common problem in older timber windows. The best method to stop it from becoming a problem is to take out sections that are damaged or rotten as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the fungus that causes it. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine), and when possible, the exact type of timber as the one being removed, to avoid the possibility of differential movement. In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became more affordable and abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated with wooden tracery moulded mullions, moulded mullions, and deep projecting cills. In recent years, glazing was fixed into rebated frames with glazing sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak, but also allows for more clear glass sheets to be employed than would be possible otherwise without the use of leaded lights. Energy efficiency The traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness and multilayer construction as well as attention to particulars. The large glass surfaces, the deep projection cills and wide glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. Windows can be designed to improve their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However it is essential to keep in mind that any such measures must be considered in terms of the overall appearance and integrity of the window in its original form. It is logical to fix or upgrade windows that are older rather than replacing them, especially when the improvement in thermal efficiency can be made through simple repairs. Historic windows often have historical significance that illustrates a variety of technical development and changes in architectural style. The pressures to replace these windows are generally based on the assumption that the old windows will need replacement in the near future, but the majority of them are capable of serving for 150, 200 and even 250 years if properly maintained. It is essential to understand that the decay problems caused by traditional timber windows can be avoided by thorough maintenance and prompt repairs. It is also crucial to identify damp problems and fix them quickly so that you can avoid serious damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early can be a problem because it allows moisture to penetrate 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 wavy. However, it can cause structural damage and lead to further decay. A good paint will prevent moisture penetration. It is also important to keep the paintwork clean to avoid condensation and the growth of mould. Modern synthetic paints are problematic since they are usually water-resistant and may cause mildew to develop in the window frame. The majority of windows from the past were constructed from timber with a high proportion of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate quickly when exposed to rain, however they can be preserved with an extensive preservation treatment prior to use. It is important to choose the appropriate type of wood for your location and climate, as these variables can affect the durability of the joinery. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/cambridge-windowrepair/ offer various types of timber sash which can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to historical structures. Maintenance Regular inspection carefully redecorated, as well as prompt repairs can extend the life of wooden windows. The primary cause of wood decay is moisture leaking through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by thorough painting and using a good quality wood preservative. It is crucial that repairs to old sash and casement windows are well executed, and carried out without causing any disturbance. Repairs can be made to the majority of traditional wooden window designs without taking the frame off. This should be done as often as is feasible. Paint that is peeling or loose should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to improve the "key" of the surface and allow for a better adhesion of the new coating. It is essential to not remove old paint layers that may have historical significance. When a piece of wood is rotten, the best way to proceed is to take out the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The wood that is being inserted should be treated with a wood preserver and the connection between the timber cill and the masonry sub-cill should be sealed. Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u is an appealing option, particularly when the installer offers a 'one stop shop' installation that takes care of removal and replacement within a day. However, it is crucial that the person who installs replacement windows has a full knowledge of the construction and history of traditional wooden frames. This will allow them to make the appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements and other technical improvements that won't harm the historical character of a building. Those who provide replacement windows should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme like as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed as a suitable solution in accordance with Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to the original character of the building. This is particularly true where windows are situated in listed buildings and conservation areas.