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Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained wooden window is an important component of a historical building. It demonstrates in various degrees the materials and technologies design, craftsmanship and aesthetics of the time from which it dates. If possible, repairs should be made in-situ. Repairing the worst areas of decay can be accomplished by using specialized resin-based systems. Durability The windows made of timber in many historic buildings were built to last for hundreds of years. However, they do need to be maintained to ensure that they look good and functioning properly. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. There is a growing need for upgrading timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This could mean replacing old glazing units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or putting up new cills for improved air sealing. The corrosion of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is particularly true when sash windows are involved as the gaps between sashes can be extremely large. In these circumstances, water can penetrate the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood beneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the decay. To prevent this from happening, windows must be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint. The areas that are damaged should be repaired with a resin-based product. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes created into the frame to allow cable access, because they could let in moisture and cause decay. Another issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall, which could cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can result in sash no longer fitting correctly and jamming or sticking to the opening, and damaged glazing. This can often be fixed by fitting new sash boxes made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed of a durable hardwood, such as oak, to avoid shifting between the new and old work. To help reduce this problem There are several companies that make Boston pattern sash made of wood that can be fitted into most openings. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes that meet the needs of the modern homeowner. Combined with quadruple draught strips and a better thermal insulation, these new sash options can make significant improvements to the energy efficiency of your home. Aesthetics A lot of old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal, as they show, in some form, the quality of the wood technology, the construction process, and the architectural aesthetics of the time they were constructed. They may also have significant historical value in their own right. This is particularly true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed structures, where the great majority were just a collection of openings within the frame, which were divided horizontally into mullions and vertical wood or iron bars to keep out invaders. It is crucial to maintain the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. It is crucial that any decay resulting from water penetration is immediately stopped once it is recognised. This is best done by a thorough painting process, especially in areas in which there is already damage or degradation. It is best to use paints designed 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 quickly spread in old windows made of timber. To prevent this, remove any rotten or damaged parts as soon as you can. The replacement of rotting wood should be carefully undertaken using slow grown deal (pine) and, wherever possible using the same species as which is being removed to prevent differential movement between the new section and the existing timbers. In the late period of the 17th century and the middle of the medieval period, glass became less expensive and more plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became elegant with wooden tracery as well as moulded mullions and projection cills. Increasingly, the glazing was set within rebated frames and pinned in with 'glazing sprigs', rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less susceptible to leaks, but it can allow for larger clearer, more transparent sheets of glass to be used in windows than would be possible without the need for leaded lights. Energy efficiency The traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction, as well as their focus on particulars. They also feature large glass areas and projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. The windows can be modified to increase their energy efficiency through draughtproofing and secondary glazing. However it is essential to remember that such measures should be evaluated in the context of the overall integrity and appearance of the window in its original form. It is logical to fix or upgrade windows that are older rather than replacing them, particularly when improvements in thermal efficiency can be made through simple fixes. The windows of the past often have an historic value that shows a variety of technological advancement and changes in architectural style. The pressures to replace these windows are generally based on the assumption that windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, but most are still capable of providing service for 150, 200 and even 250 years if properly maintained. It is essential to understand that the decay issues that are typical of timber windows can be avoided through regular maintenance and timely repairs. Additionally it is vital to recognize damp penetration issues and fix them promptly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint can be a problem because it allows moisture to get into the wood, leading to wet rot. The damage is usually not apparent until the paintwork becomes cracking or wavy but it can cause severe structural damage, and could lead to further decay. A good quality paint will prevent this moisture from entering. To prevent condensation and mould it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints could be a problem since they are typically made to be water-resistant and this may cause the growth of mildew inside the window frame. Most older windows were made from sapwood-rich timber. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration rapidly if exposed to wet weather conditions, but they can be protected by a thorough preservative treatment before they are put to use. It is important to choose the appropriate type of wood for the location and the climate, since these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers make a variety of timber sash that can be customized to fit specific openings from the past. They can be built to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom dimensions that are compatible with the architectural style of historic buildings. Maintenance Regular inspection, careful redecoration, and quick repairs can prolong the life of timber windows. The primary reason for decay is the infiltration of moisture through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided with thorough painting and the use of an excellent wood preservative. It is essential that repairs to the old sash and casement windows are done correctly, and carried out with the minimum disturbance. window and door repair near me is possible to repair many traditional timber window designs without taking the frame off. This should be done as often as is feasible. Loose or peeling paint must be removed with care and lightly sanded to improve the “key” of the surface, allowing for a better adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid stripping paint layers that may have historic value and if they are present it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted. Where a section of timber has become rotten the best course of action is to eliminate the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The timber inserts should be treated with a wood preservative, and the joint between the masonry sub-cill and the timber cill should be sealed. Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u may be a tempting option, especially when the installer offers a “one-stop shop” installation service that can handle both removal and replacement within one day. It is, however, crucial that the person who installs windows replacement has a thorough knowledge of the construction and history of traditional wooden frames. This will allow them to make the right recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological advancements that won't alter the appearance of a building that is historic. Those who provide replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that replacement windows are deemed to be approved under Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. A skilled carpenter can install PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to the original character of the building. This is particularly true when the windows are situated within conservation areas or listed buildings.