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Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained window made of timber is a crucial part of the historic fabric of a structure. It illustrates in varying degrees the materials and technologies, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the period from which it dates. If repairs are possible to existing windows should be carried out in-situ. Repairing the worst areas of decay can be done with the help of specialized resin-based systems. Durability Timber windows were designed to last for hundreds of years. But, they have to be maintained to ensure that they look good and functioning correctly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables and retightening pulleys on sash, and painting. There is also a growing demand to upgrade the timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This could mean replacing old glass units, repairing existing window rebates or putting up new cills that allow for improved air sealing. One of the main issues with traditional windows is damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important when sash windows are involved as the gaps between the sashes can be extremely large. In these cases water can get into paint film and cause rotting to the putty or wood beneath. The rotting can be exacerbated by weather conditions that are not ideal. To prevent this windows, they should be regularly painted with a suitable exterior wood paint. In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded need to be repaired with a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric remains. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes that are made in the frame to allow cable entry since they can let in moisture and cause decay. The wall's structural movement can also lead to deformations in the frame and the sash. This can result in sash no longer fitting correctly or sticking or jamming into the opening and broken glazing. This is often corrected by fitting new sash frames made of slow-grown deal (pine), or oak. The cill should be constructed of a strong hardwood like oak, in order to prevent any the movement of new and old work. To alleviate this issue There are a variety of companies that make Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit most existing openings. They are available in various sizes and finishes that will fit the needs of modern homeowners. Combined with quadruple draught strips and improved thermal insulation, these new sash options can make significant improvements to the energy efficiency of a home. Aesthetics A lot of old timber frames possess a dazzling aesthetic appeal, since they show, in some shape, the materials technology, design, and style of the time they were made. They may also have significant historical significance on their own. This is especially true of early unglazed window openings in timber-framed buildings, where the great majority were simply a series of openings in the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions and iron or wood bars to deter intrusions. It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. When you spot any signs of decay caused by moisture penetration it is crucial to stop it. It is best to do this through thorough painting, especially if there has been damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish) and to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number coats at each stage. The fungus responsible for wet rot can quickly spread in old windows made of timber. To prevent this, remove any damaged or rotten components as promptly as you are able to. Replace rotting wood with slow-growing deal (pine) and, should it be possible, the same type of wood as the one that is being removed, to prevent any differential movement. Glass became less expensive and more abundant in the late medieval period and into the 17th century. As a result, the openings for glazed windows on timber-framed houses became more complicated with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and deep cills projecting into the air. In recent years, glass was fixed to frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less prone to leaking but it can allow for larger and clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would otherwise have been possible without the need for leaded lights. Energy efficiency Traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness, multilayer construction and attention to particulars. They also feature large glass areas and deep projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, the windows can be improved to increase their energy efficiency. However, it is important to remember that such measures must be considered in the context of the overall integrity and appearance of the original window. It is logical to fix or upgrade windows, rather than replacing them, especially when the improvements in energy efficiency can be made by simple repairs. The windows that are historic have a lot of historical significance, since they reflect a variety of technological advancements and changes to architectural taste. The pressures to replace these windows are usually based on the assumption that windows that are old will need to be replaced in the near future, however they are capable of serving for 150, 200 and even 250 years, if properly maintained. It is crucial to recognize that the decay problems that are typical of timber windows can be prevented by regular maintenance and swift repairs. In window cambridge is crucial to recognize damp penetration issues and address them swiftly to prevent serious damage. The early deterioration of paint is a major problem since it allows moisture penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. This type of damage is typically not apparent until the paintwork is cracking or wavy, but can cause significant structural damage, and could lead to further decay. A quality paint will stop moisture from entering the paint. It is also important to keep the paintwork in good condition to avoid mould and condensation. The use of modern synthetic paints could be a problem, as they are often made to be water-resistant which can result in the formation of mildew in the window frame. The majority of older windows were constructed from sapwood-rich timber. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to wet weather, but can be protected by a thorough treatment of preservative before they are put to use. It is crucial to select the right kind of wood for the site and climate, as these factors will affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide various types of timber sash which can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be built according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to custom dimensions that are compatible with historic buildings. Maintenance Regular inspections, careful redecoration, and timely repairs can prolong the life of timber windows. The primary cause of wood decay is the penetration of moisture through deteriorated paint or putty. This can be avoided by using a good wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly. Repairs to old sash windows and casement window frames must be done with care and with minimal disruption. Many traditional timber window designs can be repaired without dismantling the frame, and this approach should be used whenever it is feasible. Loose or peeling paint should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to increase the “key” of the surface and facilitate an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is crucial to not remove old paint layers, as they may have historical value. When a section of wood is rotting the best way to deal with it is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts designed to match existing profiles. The wood that is inserted should be treated with a wood preserver and the connection between the cill for timber and the sub-cill for masonry should be sealed. It's tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, particularly if the installer offers an all-in-one installation that includes removal and replacement in one day. It is important that the installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the right suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological upgrades that will not harm the historic character of a building. Anyone who installs replacement windows must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacement windows are approved as a suitable solution under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u windows that are suited to the original building's style. This is especially relevant when windows are located within conservation areas or listed buildings.