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Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained window made of timber is a crucial element of the historical fabric of a structure. It reflects in varying degrees, the materials and techniques of the time period it was made, the design and craftsmanship. If possible, repairs should be made on-site. Repairing the worst areas of decay is possible by using specialized resin-based systems. Durability Timber windows were made to last for centuries. But, they have to be maintained to ensure that they look great and working correctly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords and retightening sash pulleys and painting. The demand for upgrading windows made of timber to improve efficiency in energy use is also growing. This could include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates, or installing new cills for improved air seal. One of the major issues with traditional windows is damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important in the case of sash windows, as the gaps between sashes can often be extremely large. In these situations, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting to the wood or putty underneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the rotting. To stop this from happening, windows should be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint. In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded must be repaired using a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the highest possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is essential to limit the number of holes created in the frame to allow cable entry, because they could let in moisture and cause decay. The structural movement of the wall could also cause distortions in the frame and the sash. This could result in sash no longer fitting correctly or sticking or jamming into the opening and broken glazing. This is often corrected by putting in new sash frames constructed of slow-growing deal (pine), or oak. The cill should be constructed from durable hardwood such as oak to prevent movement between the old and new work. There are a variety of companies that make Boston pattern wooden sash to fit most existing openings. They are available in a range of sizes and finishes to meet the needs of today's homeowner. Together with quadruple draught strips and better thermal insulation these new sash can make an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a house. Aesthetics Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value because they typically demonstrate, in a way, the materials and technology and architectural taste of the time in when they were built. They could have significant historical value as a set. This is particularly true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed structures, where the majority were series openings in frames of structural construction, which were divided horizontally by mullions with vertical wood or iron bars in order to protect against invaders. Traditional timber window joinery can be a highly decorative feature of a building and is essential to keep it looking good. As soon as you see any signs of decay caused by water penetration it is essential to stop it. This can be done by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas in which there is already damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints that are designed to be used as part of the system (primer undercoat, finish) and follow the manufacturer's instructions in relation to preparation and the amount of coats needed at each stage. The fungus responsible for wet rot can quickly spread in old timber windows. To prevent this, take out any damaged or rotten parts as promptly as you are able to. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine), and if possible, the same type of timber that is being removed, to avoid any differential movement. Glass became cheaper and more abundant in the late medieval period and into the 17th century. In the process, glazed openings on timber-framed houses became more complex with moulded mullions, wooden tracery and deep cills projecting into the air. The glazing was increasingly set within rebated frames and secured with 'glazing sprigs' rather than into lead cames. double glazing in cambridge RepairMyWindowsAndDoors of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak, but also allows for larger sheets of glass to be utilized than would have been possible without the use of leaded lights. Energy efficiency Traditional timber windows offer an excellent energy performance due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very attentive attention to detail. They also feature large glass areas and deep projection cills which reduce air infiltration. Windows can be designed to increase their energy efficiency by draught-proofing and secondary glazing. It is essential to remember that these measures should be taken into consideration when it comes to the overall integrity and look of the original windows. It is logical to repair or upgrade existing historic windows rather than replace them, particularly when improvement in energy efficiency can be made by simple repairs. The windows of the past often have an historic value that demonstrates a range of technical development and changes in architectural style. The pressures to replace such windows are usually based on the assumption that old windows will need replacement in the near future, but they are capable of serving for 150, 200 or even 250 years, if properly maintained. It is important to recognise that the decay problems caused by traditional timber windows can be avoided by thorough maintenance and swift repairs. It is also important to spot damp issues and correct them swiftly in order to avoid major damage. Early paint deterioration can be a problem because it allows moisture to get into the wood, causing wet rot. This type of damage is typically not apparent until the paintwork becomes wavy or cracked however, it can cause serious structural damage and can lead to further decay. A good quality paint will stop this moisture from entering. To prevent mould and condensation, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as it can be. The use of modern synthetic paints can pose a problem, as they are often designed to be water-resistant and this may lead to the formation of mildew inside the window frame. The majority of older windows were constructed of sapwood-rich timber. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration quickly when exposed to moist weather, however they can be preserved with an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are put to use. It is important to choose the appropriate type of wood for the site and climate, as these variables can affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers create a range of sash made of timber that can be customized to fit specific historic openings. They can be constructed to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to specific sizes that fit with the architectural style of historic buildings. Maintenance The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended considerably through regular inspections, careful redecoration and prompt repair. The primary reason for decay is the infiltration of moisture through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be prevented by using a good wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood. Repairs to old sash windows as well as frameless casement windows should be done with care and with the least amount of disruption. It is possible to fix many traditional timber window designs without removing the frame. This should be done as often as is feasible. Remove 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 essential to avoid removing old paint layers that may have historical significance. When a section of wood is decayed, the best solution is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts shaped to match the existing profiles. The timber that is inserted should be treated with a wood preservative, and the joint between the masonry sub-cill and the timber cill should be sealed. It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, especially when the installer provides an all-in-one installation that includes both removal and replacement within a single day. It is vital that the installer of windows replacement has a thorough knowledge 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 advancements that won't harm the character of a building that is historic. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed as a suitable solution in accordance with Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter is able to 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.