[email protected] – https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/cambridge-windowrepair/

Maintaining Timber WindowsA well-maintained wooden window is a crucial element of a building that is historic. It reflects, in various levels, the technology and materials of the time in which it was made, the design and craftsmanship.When repairs are feasible to windows that are already in use should be done in-situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay can be done with the help of specialized resin-based systems.DurabilityTimber windows were built to last for hundreds of years. However, they need to be maintained to ensure that they look great and working properly. The most common maintenance tasks are repairs to sash-cords and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. The need to upgrade windows made of timber to increase efficiency in energy use is also growing. This can involve replacing old glass units, fixing existing window rebates or putting up new cills to allow the air to seal better.The corrosion of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is particularly important in the case of sash windows because the gaps between sashes may be very large. In these instances water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty as well as underlying wood. The weather can be a factor in accelerating the rotting. To stop this from happening, windows must be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.In addition to repainting, corroded areas should be repaired with the help of a resin-based repair solution. This will ensure that the highest possible amount of the original fabric is retained. It is important to minimize the number of holes that are drilled in the frame to allow cable access, as these can admit moisture and cause decay.Another significant problem with older windows is structural movement in the wall, which could cause deformation of the frame and the sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly, sticking or jamming in the opening and cracked glazing. This can often be fixed by fitting new sash boxes that have been constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be made from a sturdy hardwood, such as oak, in order to prevent any differential movement between new and older work.To alleviate this issue There are several companies that make Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit into the majority of existing openings. They are available in a range of sizes and finishes that meet the requirements of the modern homeowner. The new sash, coupled with quadruple draft strips and a better thermal insulation, can make a significant difference to the efficiency of your home’s energy usage.AestheticsMany old wooden windows have an excellent aesthetic value since they usually demonstrate, in a way, the materials and technology and architectural taste of the period from which they originate. They also may have a significant historical significance in their in their own right. This is especially true for early unglazed window openings in timber-framed structures, which were merely a series of openings within the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions and iron or wood bars to keep out intruders.Traditional window joinery made of timber is a beautiful aspect of a building, and is crucial to keep its appearance. As soon as you see any decay caused by the penetration of moisture it is essential to stop it. It is best to do this through thorough painting, especially if there is damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints designed to be used as part of the system (primer undercoat, finish) and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines in terms of preparation and the number of coats required at each stage.Wet rot is a frequent issue in old timber windows. The best way to stop it becoming a problem is to take out any damaged or rotten parts immediately to prevent the spread of the fungus that causes it. The replacement of rotting wood should be carefully undertaken with a slow-growing deal (pine) and, if possible it is the same species as which is being removed to avoid differential movement between the new section and the existing timbers.Glass became cheaper and more abundant during the late medieval period and into the 17th century. This led to glazed openings on timber-framed houses became more complicated with moulded mullions, wooden tracery and deep projecting cills. Increasingly, the glazing was set within rebated frames and secured by ‘glazing sprigs’ rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak and also allows larger sheets of glass to be utilized than would have been possible without the use of leaded lights.Energy efficiencyTraditional timber windows have an excellent energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay attentive attention to detail. The large glass surfaces, the deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas minimize air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing windows can be upgraded to increase their energy efficiency. However, it is important to keep in mind that these measures must be considered in relation to the overall integrity and appearance of the window in its original form.So, retaining the existing windows from the past that require repair rather than replacing them is logical, particularly when their thermal enhancements can be achieved inexpensively with simple repairs and upgrades. Older windows are usually considered to be of historical value because they reflect a variety of technical development and changes to architectural taste. Most people think that the windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, most will last for 150,200, and even 250 years with proper maintenance.It is essential to understand that the decay issues that are typical of timber windows can be avoided by thorough maintenance and prompt repairs. It is also essential to spot damp issues and address them promptly to avoid major damage. window doctor cambridge www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk is a particular problem, 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 starts to crack or turn curly. However, it could cause structural damage and then further decay.A good quality paint will stop this moisture from entering. To prevent mould and condensation it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. Modern synthetic paints can be problematic because they are usually designed to be water-resistant and this may result in the formation of mildew inside the window frame.The majority of windows from the past were constructed from sapwood-rich wood. These timbers can deteriorate quickly when exposed to rain, however they can be protected with a thorough preservation treatment before use. It is essential to select the appropriate type of wood for your location and the climate, since these factors can affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers have an array of timber sash which can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be made to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that fit with the architectural style of historic buildings.MaintenanceRegular inspections, careful redecoration, and prompt repairs can extend the lifespan of windows made of timber. The major cause of decay is moisture penetration through deteriorated paint or putty. This can be prevented by using a good wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.It is important that repairs to the old sash and casement windows are well executed and completed with minimal disruption. Many traditional timber window designs can be repaired without dismantling the frame, and this option should be followed whenever possible. Remove peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the area to improve the ‘key” of the surface. This will allow the new coating to adhere better. It is essential to not remove old paint layers, as they could have historical significance.When a section of wood is decayed the best option is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts shaped to match the existing profiles. The inserted timber should also be treated using wood preservative and the junction between masonry sub-cill and timber cill should be sealed.Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u may be an attractive option, especially when the installer offers a ‘one stop shop’ installation service that can handle removal and replacement in the span of a 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 appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological upgrades that do not alter the historic character of a building. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that replacement windows are deemed acceptable by the Building Regulations as a suitable option. It is certainly possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-U windows that fit the the original building. This is particularly true when the windows are located within conservation areas or listed buildings.