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Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained window made of timber is a crucial part of the historic fabric of a building. It reflects, in various degrees, the technology and materials of the time period it was made, the architectural style and craftsmanship. When possible, repairs should be made on-site. Repairing the most severe areas of decay is possible using proprietary resin-based systems. Durability The timber windows in many historical buildings were built to last for a long time. They do require maintenance to keep them looking good. Maintenance tasks include sash cord repairs, retightening of sash pulleys and painting. There is also a growing demand to upgrade the timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This can include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates, or installing new cills for improved air seal. One of the main issues with traditional windows is the damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially important when sash windows are concerned because the gaps between sashes can often be extremely large. In these situations water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood underneath. The weather can be a factor in accelerating the decay. To avoid this windows from becoming rotten, they must be painted regularly using an exterior wood paint that is suitable. In addition to repainting, corroded areas must be repaired using an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure that the maximum amount of the original fabric is retained. It is also essential to reduce the number of holes you drill into the frame to allow cable entry, as they could allow water in and cause decay. Another issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall, which could cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly and jamming or sticking to the opening and broken glazing. This can be corrected often by fitting new sash frames made of slow-growing deal (pine), or oak. The cill should be constructed of a durable hardwood like oak to prevent movement between the old and new work. To alleviate this issue, there are now a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit into the majority of existing openings. These sash are available in a range of sizes and finishes that meet the needs of the modern homeowner. These new sash, when coupled with quadruple draft strips and a better thermal insulation, can make a huge difference to the energy-efficiency of a home. Aesthetics Many old timber frames possess a dazzling aesthetic appeal, as they reflect, in some shape, the materials technology, design, and style of the time they were made. They also may have a significant historical significance in their own right. This is particularly true for early unglazed windows in timber-framed buildings, where the majority were series openings in frames of structural construction, which were divided horizontally by mullions and vertical wood or iron bars in order to keep out invaders. It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. As soon as you see any signs of decay caused by water penetration it is essential to stop it. It is best to do this through thorough painting, especially if there is damage or deterioration. It is best to use paints that are designed to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish) and adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for preparation and number of coats at each stage. The fungus that causes wet rot can spread quickly in old windows made of wood. To prevent this from happening, remove any rotten or damaged parts as promptly as you are able to. The replacement of wood that is rotting should be carefully undertaken with a slow-growing deal (pine) and, whenever possible it is the same species as which is being removed to prevent shifting between the new section and the existing timbers. In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became cheaper and more abundant, so that the glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became sophisticated, with tracery made of wood as well as moulded mullions and projection cills. In recent times, glass was pinned into frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less prone to leaks but also allows for more expansive and clearer sheets of glass to be used in windows than would otherwise have been possible without the need for leaded lights. Energy efficiency Traditional timber windows provide excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness and multi-layer construction, as well as attentive attention to detail. They also have large glass areas and deep projecting cills that minimise air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, windows can be made more efficient to increase their energy efficiency. However it is crucial to remember that such measures must be considered in terms of the overall quality and appearance of the original window. So, retaining existing historic windows that require repair rather than replacing them makes sense particularly when thermal enhancements can be achieved inexpensively with simple repairs and improvements. Older windows are usually considered to be of historical value because they show a range in technological advancements and changes to architectural taste. Many people believe that the windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, they can still provide service for 150,200, and even 250 years if they are maintained with proper maintenance. It is important to recognize that decay issues associated with traditional timber windows are preventable by quick and thorough repairs. Additionally it is vital to recognize damp penetration issues and address them swiftly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint is a concern because it allows moisture to get into the wood, leading to wet rot. It is not uncommon for this issue to go unnoticed until the paintwork starts to crack or turn wavier. However, it could cause structural damage and then further decay. A quality paint will prevent moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints pose a challenge because they are water-resistant and may cause mildew to grow within the window frame. The majority of older windows were constructed from sapwood-rich wood. These timbers can deteriorate very quickly when exposed to wet weather, but can be protected by an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are used. It is crucial to select the right type of wood for the site and climate, as these factors will affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers make a range of sash made of timber that can be customized to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to historical buildings. Maintenance The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended significantly by regular inspection as well as a careful redecoration and prompt repair. The primary cause of wood decay is moisture leaking through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by using a good wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly. glaziers cambridge to old sash windows as well as casement window frames should be handled with care and with the least amount of disruption. It is possible to fix the majority of traditional wooden window designs without removing the frame. This should be done whenever possible. Remove any peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the surface to improve the “key” of the surface. This will enable the new coating to adhere better. It is important to avoid stripping old paint layers which might have historical significance If these are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted. If a portion of wood is decayed the best option is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts that are shaped to match existing profiles. The inserted timber should also be treated with wood preservative and the junction between masonry sub-cill and timber cill should be sealed. It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, especially when the installer offers an installation that includes both removal and replacement within a single day. However, it is essential that the person installing replacement windows has a full understanding of the construction and history of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the right recommendations for energy efficiency improvements as well as other technological upgrades that won't harm the character of a building that is historic. Window replacements should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are deemed acceptable under Building Regulations as a suitable option. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to the original building's style. This is particularly applicable when windows are in conservation areas or listed buildings.