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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is a significant element of the historical fabric of a structure. It reflects in different degree the materials and technologies of the time it was constructed, the design and craftsmanship.

If repairs are possible to existing windows should be done in-situ. Repairing the most deteriorated areas of decay can be done using proprietary resin-based systems.

Durability

The windows made of timber in many historical buildings were made to last for a long time. However, they need to be maintained to ensure they look good and operating correctly. The most common maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs, re-tightening sash pulleys, and painting. The need to upgrade windows made of timber to improve efficiency in energy use is also growing. This could include replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window lock repairs rebates, or installing new cills to increase the air seal.

A key problem with traditional windows is damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important when windows made of sash are involved because the gaps between the sashes can be quite wide. In these situations, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting to the putty or wood beneath. The rotting process can be made worse by weather conditions that are not ideal. To prevent this from happening, windows must be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas must be repaired using a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the maximum amount of original fabric is retained. It is important to minimize the number of holes that are created in the frame to allow cable access, as these can admit moisture and cause decay.

Another 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 no longer fitting correctly and jamming or sticking to the opening and cracked glazing. Most often, this is corrected by the fitting of new sash boxes that have been made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed from a sturdy hardwood, like oak, in order to prevent any differential movement between new and old work.

To help reduce this problem, there are now several companies that produce Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit most existing openings. These sash come in a variety of sizes and finishes that fit the needs of modern homeowners. Combined with quadruple draught strips and better thermal insulation these sashes can make a significant improvements to the energy efficiency of your home.

Aesthetics

A lot of old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal, as they display, in a certain form, the quality of the wood technology, the construction process, and the architectural aesthetics of the time they were built. They may have significant historical value in their own right. This is particularly true for early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, in which the majority were simply a series openings in frames of structural construction, which were divided horizontally by mullions and vertical iron or wood bars in order to keep out invaders.

It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. It is essential that any decay resulting from moisture penetration should be stopped as soon as it is identified. It is best to do this with thorough painting, especially if there is damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints that are specifically designed to be used as part of a system (primer undercoat, finish) and follow the manufacturer's instructions in relation to preparation and number of coats required at each stage.

The fungus responsible for wet rot is able to spread quickly in old windows made of timber. To prevent this from happening, remove any rotten or damaged parts as soon as you can. The replacement of wood that is rotting should be carefully undertaken with a slow-growing deal (pine) and, whenever feasible, the same species as that which is being removed to avoid differential movement between the new section and existing timbers.

Glass became less expensive and more abundant in the late medieval period and into the 17th century. In the process, the glazed openings in timber-framed homes became more complex 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 double glazing seal repairs sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less prone to leaks but it can allow for larger and clearer sheets of glass to be used in windows than would otherwise be possible without the need for lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows have a good energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay careful attention to detailing. They also have large glass areas as well as deep projection cills which reduce air infiltration. Windows can be designed to increase their energy efficiency by draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However, it is important to remember that such measures must be considered in terms of the overall quality and appearance of the original window.

It makes sense to repair or upgrade existing windows, rather than replacing them, particularly when improvements in thermal efficiency can be achieved by simple repairs. The windows that are historic have a lot of historical value, as they demonstrate a variety in technological advancement and changes in architectural style. The pressure to replace these windows are usually based on the assumption that windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, but they are capable of providing service for 150, 200 and even 250 years, if properly maintained.

It is important to recognise that the decay issues associated with traditional timber windows can be prevented by regular maintenance and timely repairs. It is also essential to identify damp problems and fix them quickly to avoid major damage. Early deterioration of paint is a particular problem, because it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this type of damage to go unnoticed until paintwork begins to crack or become wavier. However, it can cause structural damage and lead to further decay.

A high-quality paint will prevent this moisture from entering. It is also necessary to keep the paintwork spotless in order to prevent condensation and mould growth. Modern synthetic paints can be problematic since they are typically formulated to be water-resistant, which can cause the growth of mildew within the window frame.

Most older windows were made from sapwood-rich timber. These timbers deteriorate quickly if exposed to rain, however they can be protected by a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is important to choose the right type of wood for the site and climate, as these variables can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local commercial window repair manufacturers offer a wide range of timber sash which can be made to fit the historic openings. They can be built according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom dimensions that are compatible with historic buildings.

Maintenance

The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended significantly by regular inspection carefully redecoration, and prompt repair. The primary cause of wood decay is moisture leaking through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a quality wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.

Repairs to old sash windows and frameless casement windows should be done with care and with the least amount of disruption. Repairs can be made to several traditional designs of timber windows without removing the frame. This is a must whenever it is possible. Remove any peeling or loose paint and then lightly sand the surface to improve the 'key" of the surface. This will allow the new coating to adhere better. It is crucial to avoid removing old paint layers, as they may have historical value.

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

It can be tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, especially when the installer offers an installation that includes removal and replacement within a single day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the right suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technical improvements that won't harm the character of a historic building. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that the replacement windows are approved as a suitable option under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u windows that conform to original building's character. This is particularly true where windows cambridge are installed in listed buildings and conservation areas.