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Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained timber window is a crucial part of the historic fabric of a structure. It reflects in different degrees, the materials and techniques of the time it was constructed, the design and craftsmanship. Whenever possible repairs to existing windows should be made in-situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to repair the most deteriorated areas without removing the entire window. Durability The windows made of timber in many old buildings were built to last for a long time. They require regular maintenance to keep them looking good. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks are repairs to sash-cords as well as tightening sash pulleys and painting. There is also a rising demand for upgrading timber windows to increase the efficiency of energy. This could include replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window rebates or installing new cills for improved air seal. One of the main issues with traditional windows is damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important when windows with sash are involved since the gaps between the sashes can be very wide. In these circumstances water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood beneath. The rotting process can be made worse by weather conditions that are not ideal. To stop this from happening, windows should be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint. Corroded areas should also be repaired using resin-based products. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes that are made into the frame to allow cable entry, because they could let in moisture and cause decay. Another issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall which could cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can result in sash no longer fitting correctly or sticking or jamming into the opening and broken glazing. This can be corrected often by fitting new sash frames made of slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be made from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to avoid any movement between the old and new work. To reduce the risk There are a variety of companies that make Boston pattern sash made of wood that can be fitted into most openings. These sash come in a variety of sizes and finishes to meet the requirements of modern homeowners. The new sash, combined with quadruple draft strip and a better thermal insulation, can significantly improve the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Aesthetics Many old wooden windows have an excellent aesthetic value as they often demonstrate, in a way the materials and techniques and architectural style of the time from when they were built. They may have significant historical significance in their own right. This is particularly true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, in which the majority of them were series of openings in structural frames subdivided horizontally by mullions with vertical iron or wood bars in order to protect against intruders. Traditional timber window joinery can be a stunning element of a structure and is crucial to maintain its appearance. As soon as you see any signs of decay due to moisture penetration it is crucial to stop it. It is best to do this through thorough painting, especially if there has been damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints designed to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish), and to adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for preparation and number of coats at each stage. Wet rot is a common issue in older timber windows. The best way to stop it growing is to eliminate sections that are damaged or rotten as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the fungus that causes it. Replace rotting wood with slow-growing deal (pine) and, if possible, the same type of wood as the one being removed, to prevent differential movement. In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became cheaper and more abundant, so that the glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became more elegant with wooden tracery, moulded mullions and deep projection cills. In recent years, glass was fixed to frames that were rebated with glazing sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak and also allows larger sheets of glass to be used than would have been possible without the use of led lights. Energy efficiency Traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness, multilayer construction and attention to detail. The large glass areas, deep projection cills and wide glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. The windows can be modified to increase their energy efficiency by draught-proofing and secondary glazing. It is important to keep in mind that these measures need to be taken into consideration when it comes to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows. So, retaining existing historic windows that are in need of repair rather than replacing them is logical, particularly when their thermal enhancements can be made cost-effectively through simple repairs and upgrades. Older windows typically have historical significance that shows a variety of technical development and changes in architectural taste. The pressures to replace these windows are usually based on the assumption that windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, but the majority of them are in a position to last for 150, 200 or even 250 years if they are properly maintained. It is important to recognize that decay problems in traditional timber windows are preventable by prompt and thorough repairs. Additionally it is crucial to spot damp penetration issues and fix them promptly to avoid serious damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early can be a problem because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, causing wet rot. The damage is usually not apparent until the paintwork is cracking or wavy but it can cause severe structural damage, and could lead to further decay. A good quality paint will prevent this moisture from entering. To prevent condensation and mould, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. Modern synthetic paints are problematic because they are water-resistant, and can cause mildew growth in the window frame. The majority of windows from the past were constructed from sapwood-rich wood. These timbers deteriorate quickly if exposed to rain, however they can be protected with a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is important to choose the right type of wood for the location and climate, as these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide an array of sash made from timber that can be made to fit the historic openings. They can be built according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that fit with the architectural style of historic buildings. Maintenance Regular inspection, careful redecoration, and timely repairs can prolong the life of wooden windows. The main cause of decay is moisture infiltration through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided with careful painting and the use of an excellent wood preservative. It is important that repairs to old sash and casement windows are done correctly and done with the minimum disturbance. It is possible to fix several traditional designs of timber windows without having to remove the frame. This should be done whenever possible. Peeling or loose paint should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to increase the key of the surface and allow for a better adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid stripping paint layers that might have historical significance, and where these are present it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted. If a piece of timber is rotten, the best option is to eliminate the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to fit the existing profiles. The inserted timber should also be treated with wood preservative. The junction between the masonry sub-cill and the timber cill should be sealed. Replacement of traditional windows using PVC-u can be a tempting option, especially when the installer provides an “all-in-one” installation that handles removal and replacement within a day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. Learn More Here will enable them to make the right recommendations for energy efficiency improvements and other technical upgrades that won't harm the historic character of a building. The windows that are replaced should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme, such as FENSA. This will ensure that replacement windows are deemed to be approved in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. A skilled carpenter can install PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to the original character of the building. This is particularly relevant when windows are located within conservation areas or listed buildings.