A An Instructional Guide To Cambridge Window From Beginning To End

Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained timber window is a significant part of the historic fabric of a structure. It reflects, in various levels, the materials and technologies of the time in which it was made, the architectural style and craftsmanship.

When possible, repairs should be made on-site. Repairing the most deteriorated areas of decay is possible by using specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last hundreds of years. But, they have to be maintained to keep them looking great and working correctly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables, retightening of sash pulleys and painting. There is a growing need to upgrade the timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This could include replacing old glazing units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills to improve 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 because the gaps between sashes may be quite large. In these cases water can get into paint film and cause rotting of the putty or wood beneath. The rotting may be further aggravated due to weather conditions that are poor. To prevent this, windows should be regularly painted with a suitable exterior wood paint.

Corroded areas should also be repaired using a resin-based product. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is also necessary to limit the number of holes that are drilled into the frame for cable entry as these can admit water and lead to decay.

Another significant problem with older windows is the structural movement within the wall which can lead to deformation of the frame and the sash. This can lead to sash no longer fitting correctly or sticking or jamming into the opening and broken glazing. This can be fixed frequently by putting in new frames for sash made of slow-growing deal (pine), or oak. The cill should be made from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to prevent movement between the existing and new work.

To reduce the risk There are a number of companies who make Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in a range of sizes and finishes that meet the needs of the modern homeowner. These new sash, when combined with quadruple draft strips and a better thermal insulation, can significantly improve the efficiency of your home's energy usage.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value because they typically illustrate, in some way, the materials and technology and architectural style of the time in which they originate. They may also have significant historical value in their in their own right. This is particularly true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed structures, which were just a collection of openings within the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions and vertical iron or wood bars to keep out invaders.

It is essential to preserve the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. When you spot any decay caused by water penetration it is essential to stop it. It is recommended to do this with thorough painting, especially if there is damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number coats at each stage.

Wet rot is a frequent issue in old timber windows. The best method to stop it from growing is to eliminate any damaged or rotten sections as soon as you can to stop the spread of the fungus that causes it. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine) and, if possible, the same type of timber as the one that is being removed, to avoid any differential movement.

In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became less expensive and more plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated, with tracery made of wood as well as moulded mullions and projection cills. In recent times, glass was fixed into frames that were rebated with glazing sprigs instead of lead cames.  window installation cambridge  of glazing is not just less prone to leaks but it can allow for much wider clearer, more transparent sheets of glass to be used in windows than would otherwise have been possible without the need for lead lights.

Energy efficiency

The traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness, multilayer construction and care for detail. They also have large glass areas as well as deep projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing windows can be upgraded to increase their energy efficiency. However, it is important to remember that such measures should be viewed in the context of the overall appearance and integrity of the original window.

Therefore, keeping old windows that require repair rather than replacing them is sensible, particularly when their thermal enhancements can be made cost-effectively through simple repairs and upgrades. The windows of the past often have historical significance that demonstrates a range of technological advancement and changes in architectural tastes. The pressures to replace such windows are generally based on the assumption that windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, however the majority of them are capable of serving for 150, 200 and even 250 years if they are properly maintained.

It is important to recognise that the decay issues that are associated with traditional timber windows can be avoided by regular maintenance and prompt repairs. In addition it is vital to spot damp penetration issues and fix them promptly to prevent serious damage. The early deterioration of paint is a particular problem, as it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. The damage is usually not evident until the paintwork is wavy or cracked but it can cause severe structural damage and lead to further decay.

A quality paint will block moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints are problematic since they are usually water-resistant and may cause mildew to grow in the window frame.

The majority of older windows were constructed of sapwood-rich timber. The timbers will deteriorate rapidly if exposed to rain, but they can be preserved with a thorough preservation treatment before use. It is also essential to ensure that the type of timber used is well-suited to the location and climate conditions, as these factors will influence the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers produce various types of timber sash that can be adapted to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes that can be adapted to the architectural style of historic structures.

Maintenance

Regular inspection as well as careful redecoration and timely repairs can prolong the lifespan of windows made of timber. The main cause of decay is moisture penetration through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

It is important that repairs to old sash or casement windows are done correctly and completed with the minimum disturbance. It is possible to fix many traditional timber window designs without having to remove the frame. This should be done whenever possible. Peeling or loose paint should be removed with care and sanded lightly to increase the 'key' of the surface, allowing for a better adhesion of the new coating. It is crucial to avoid removing old paint layers, as they may have historical significance.

If a piece of wood is rotting the best way to deal with it is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts designed to match the existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with wood preservative, and the junction between the timber cill and the sub-cill for masonry should be sealed.

Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u may be an appealing option, particularly when the installer provides an "all-in-one" installation that handles removal and replacement within the span of a day. It is important that the installers of replacement windows have a thorough understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the right suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological advancements that won't harm the character of an historic building. Window replacements should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that replacement windows are deemed acceptable under Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u windows that are suited to the original building's style. This is particularly true where windows are installed in listed buildings and conservation areas.