8 Tips To Up Your Cambridge Window Game

Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained and maintained timber window is an important part of the historic structure of a building. It is a representation of the materials and technologies, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the period from which it originates.

Whenever possible repairs to existing windows should be carried out in-situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay can be accomplished using proprietary resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last hundreds of years. They do require some maintenance to keep them looking good. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords, retightening of sash pulleys and painting. There is also a rising demand to upgrade the timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This can involve replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window rebates or putting in new cills to allow for improved air sealing.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is especially important where sash windows are involved as the gaps between the sashes can be very large. In these situations, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting to the putty or wood beneath. The rotting may be further aggravated by poor weather conditions. To avoid this windows, they should be painted regularly using an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas should be repaired with an adhesive-based repair product. This will ensure that the maximum amount of original fabric preserved. It is also necessary to minimise the number of holes you drill into the frame to allow cable entry since these could admit water and lead to decay.

The wall's structural movement can cause deformations in the frame and sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly, jamming or sticking in the opening, or breaking glass. This can be fixed frequently by putting in new sash frames constructed of slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed of a strong hardwood such as oak, to avoid the movement of new and old work.

To help reduce this problem There are a number of companies who manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash that can be fitted into most openings. The sash is available in a variety of sizes and finishes that meet the requirements of the modern homeowner. These new sash, when coupled with quadruple draft strips and improved thermal insulation can make a significant difference to the energy-efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old wooden windows have an excellent aesthetic value since they usually demonstrate, in a way, the materials and technology and architectural style of the period from which they date. They may also have significant historical value in their own right. This is particularly true of early unglazed windows in timber-framed buildings, in which the majority were series of openings in structural frames subdivided horizontally by mullions and vertical iron or wood bars to protect against intrusions.

Traditional window joinery made of timber is a beautiful aspect of a building, and is essential to keep its appearance. When you spot any decay caused by moisture penetration it is essential to stop it. This can be done by a thorough painting process, especially in areas in which there is already damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints specifically designed to be used as part of the system (primer undercoat, finish) and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding preparation and the number of coats required at each stage.

Wet rot is a frequent problem for older timber windows. The best way to stop it becoming a problem is to take out any damaged or rotten parts as soon as possible to stop the spread of the fungus that causes it.  double glazing cambridge RepairMyWindowsAndDoors  of rotting timber should be done with care and by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, wherever feasible, the same species as which is being removed to prevent shifting between the new and old timbers.

In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became cheaper and more plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more elegant with wooden tracery as well as moulded mullions and projection cills. Increasingly, the glazing was placed within frames with rebates 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 used than would have been feasible without the use of lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows provide an excellent energy performance due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very careful attention to detailing. They also have large glass areas and projection cills which reduce air infiltration. Windows can be designed to improve their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. It is important to keep in mind that these measures should be considered in relation to the overall integrity and look of the original windows.

So, retaining existing historic windows that are in need of repair instead of replacing them is logical especially when their thermal improvements can be achieved cost-effectively through simple repairs and improvements. Historic windows are often considered to be of historical value because they demonstrate a variety in technical development and changes to architectural style. Most people assume that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, they will last for 150,200, and even 250 years if you take care of maintenance.

It is essential to understand that the decay problems associated with traditional timber windows can be prevented through regular maintenance and timely repairs. It is also important to spot damp issues and fix them quickly so that you can avoid serious damage. Early paint deterioration is a particular problem, as it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this issue to go unnoticed until paintwork begins to crack or becomes curly. However, it could cause structural damage and then further decay.

A good quality paint will stop this moisture from entering. To avoid condensation and mould it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as it can be. Modern synthetic paints pose a problem because they are often water-resistant, and can cause mildew to develop in 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 by an extensive preservation treatment prior to use. It is also essential to ensure that the type of timber used is well-suited to the climate and site conditions, as these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide various types of sash made from timber that can be made to fit the historic openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historical structures.

Maintenance

The life span of windows made from timber can be extended considerably through regular inspections carefully redecoration, and prompt repair. The most common reason for the decay is moisture intrusion through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be avoided by using a quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

It is essential that repairs to the old sash and casement windows are properly executed and done without causing any disturbance. Repairs can be made to several traditional designs of timber windows without having to remove the frame. This should be done as often as is feasible. Peeling or loose paint should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to improve the 'key' of the surface and allow for a better adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid removing old paint layers, as they may have historical significance.

When a section of wood is decayed, the best solution is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts shaped to match existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with wood preservative, and the junction between the timber cill and the masonry sub-cill should be sealed.

It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, especially when the installer offers an  all-in-one installation that includes both removal and replacement in a single day. It is important that the installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technical improvements that won't harm the character of a historic building. The windows that are replaced must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure that replacement windows are approved under Building Regulations as a suitable option. A skilled carpenter can install PVC-u windows that are suited to original building's character. This is especially true where windows are situated in listed buildings or conservation areas.