How To Tell The Good And Bad About Cambridge Window

Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained timber window is an important element of the historic fabric of a structure. It reflects in different degrees, the materials and technologies of the time period it was made, the design and craftsmanship.

If repairs are possible to existing windows should be made in situ. Repairing the worst areas of decay is possible by using specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

The windows made of timber in many old structures were designed to last for a long time. They do require some maintenance to keep them looking great. The most frequent maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs as well as tightening sash pulleys and painting. There is also a rising demand to upgrade timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This may include replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window rebates or installing new cills for improved air seal.

The corrosion of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is particularly important when sash windows are concerned as the gaps between sashes may be quite large. In these cases water can get into paint film and cause rotting to the wood or putty underneath.  timber casement windows cost cambridge  can be a factor in accelerating the decay. To stop this from happening, windows should be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.

The areas that are damaged should also be repaired using resin-based products. This will ensure the maximum amount of the original fabric is retained. It is important to minimize the number of holes created in the frame to allow cable entry, as these can admit moisture and cause decay.

Another major issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall that could cause deformation of the frame and sash. This could result in the sash not fitting properly and jamming or sticking to the opening and cracked glazing. Often this can be corrected by fitting new sash boxes that have been made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed from durable hardwood such as oak to avoid differential movement between the old and new work.

To reduce the risk to reduce the risk of this happening, there are a variety of companies that make Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit into the majority of existing openings. These sash come in various sizes and finishes that meet the requirements of modern-day homeowners. Together with quadruple draught strips and a better thermal insulation, these new sash can make a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of a house.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal because they reflect, in some shape, the materials technology, design, and taste from the time period they were made. They also may have significant historical value in their own right. This is particularly true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, where the majority of them were series of openings within frames of structural construction, which were divided horizontally by mullions and vertical wood or iron bars to keep out intruders.

Traditional window joinery made from timber can be a highly decorative element of a structure and it is important to maintain its appearance. It is crucial that any decay that results from water penetration is stopped as soon as it is recognised. It is best to do this by thorough painting, especially if there is 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 recommendations for preparation and number of coats at each stage.

Wet rot is a typical problem in older timber windows. The best method to stop it from growing is to eliminate sections that are damaged or rotten as soon as you can to stop the spread of the fungus that causes it. The replacement of rotting timber must be done with care by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, if feasible, the same species as which is being removed in order to prevent shifting between the new section and existing timbers.

In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became cheaper and more abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed buildings gradually became sophisticated, with tracery made of wood, moulded mullions and deep projecting cills. Increasingly, the glazing was set within rebated frames and then pinned by 'glazing sprigs' rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less susceptible to leaks, but it also allows larger clearer, more transparent sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would otherwise be possible without the need for lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness, multilayer construction and care for the smallest of details. They also feature large glass areas and projecting cills that minimise air infiltration. Windows can be designed to improve their energy efficiency through draughtproofing and secondary glazing. However it is crucial to keep in mind that these measures must be considered in relation to the overall quality and appearance of the window in its original form.

It is sensible to repair or upgrade existing windows that are older rather than replacing them, particularly when improvement in energy efficiency can be made through simple repairs. Older windows typically have a historical value that shows a variety of technological advancement and changes in architectural taste. The pressures to replace these windows are usually based on the assumption that the old windows will need replacement in the near future, but most are still capable of serving for 150, 200 and even 250 years if they are properly maintained.

It is crucial to understand that decay issues in traditional timber windows are avoidable with prompt and thorough repairs. It is also crucial to recognize damp issues and fix them quickly to avoid major damage. Early deterioration of paint is a major issue, as it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and 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 quality paint will prevent this moisture from entering. To prevent condensation and mould, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. Modern synthetic paints are problematic because they are often water-resistant and can cause mildew to grow within the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed from sapwood-rich timber. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration quickly when exposed to wet weather, however they can be protected by an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are put to use. It is also essential to ensure that the type of wood used is suited to the location and climate conditions, since these factors affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers produce various types of timber sash that can be tailored to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be built to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to specific sizes that are in keeping with the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance

Regular inspections, careful redecoration, and prompt repairs can extend the life of timber windows. The most common reason for decay is moisture intrusion through the deterioration of paint and putty. This can be prevented by using a quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

It is essential that repairs to old sash or casement windows are done correctly, and carried out with the minimum disturbance. It is possible to repair the majority of traditional wooden window designs without having to remove the frame. This is a must whenever it is possible. Remove peeling or loose paint and then lightly sand the surface to improve the "key" of the surface. This will allow the new coating to stick better. Care should be taken to avoid stripping paint layers that could have historical value If these are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be carried out.

When a section of wood has rotted the best option is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts shaped to match the existing profiles. The wood that is being inserted should be treated with a wood preservative and the joint between the timber cill and sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.

It can be tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC U, particularly when the installer offers an  all-in-one installation that includes both removal and replacement in one day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the right recommendations for energy efficiency improvements and other technical upgrades that do not alter the character of a historic building. The windows that are replaced should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are deemed to be approved in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. A skilled carpenter can install PVC-u windows that conform to original building's character. This is particularly true where the windows are located in listed buildings and conservation areas.