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Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained wooden window is an essential component of a historical building. It reflects, in various levels, the materials and techniques of the time it was made, the design and craftsmanship. When repairs are feasible to existing windows are required, they should be done in situ. Repair systems made of resin can be used to fix the most damaged areas of decay without removing the whole window. Durability Timber windows were designed to last for centuries. They do require some maintenance to ensure they look good. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables and retightening sash pulleys and painting. The demand for enhancing windows made of timber to improve energy efficiency is also growing. This can involve replacing old glazing units, repairing existing window rebates, or installing new cills for improved air sealing. One of the main issues with traditional windows is the damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important when windows made of sash are involved because the gaps between sashes can be very wide. In these instances water can enter the paint film and cause rotting of the putty or wood beneath. The rotting may be further aggravated by weather conditions that are not ideal. To stop this from happening, windows need to be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint. In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded must be repaired using the help of a resin-based repair solution. This will ensure that the greatest amount of the original fabric is retained. It is also important to limit the number of holes you drill into the frame for cable entry since these could allow water in and cause decay. Another significant problem with older windows is the structural movement within the wall that can lead to deformation of the frame and sash. This could result in sash no longer fitting correctly and jamming or sticking to the opening and broken glazing. This can often be fixed by fitting new sash boxes that have been constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill needs to be constructed from a sturdy hardwood, such as oak, to avoid shifting between the new and existing work. There are several companies that manufacture Boston pattern wooden sash to fit in with the majority of openings. These sash are available in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit the needs of the modern homeowner. These new sash, when coupled with quadruple draft strips and improved thermal insulation can make a huge difference to the efficiency of a home's energy use. Aesthetics Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value since they usually illustrate, in some way, the materials and technology and architectural style of the time in when they were built. They may also have significant historical value in their individual cases. This is especially true for windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed structures, where the great majority were simply a series of openings within the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into wood or iron bars to deter invaders. It is essential to preserve the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. It is vital that any decay resulting from water penetration is stopped as soon as it is recognised. www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk is best done by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas in which there is already damage or degradation. It is best to use paints that are designed to be used in a set (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preparation and number coats at each stage. The fungus responsible for wet rot can spread quickly in old windows made of timber. To prevent this, get rid of any damaged or rotten parts as promptly as you are able to. The replacement of rotting timber should be done with care and by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, whenever feasible using the same species as that which is being removed to avoid differential movement between the new section and the existing timbers. In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became less expensive and more plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became more elegant with wooden tracery, moulded mullions and deep projection cills. The glazing was increasingly laid within rebated frames and then pinned with 'glazing sprigs', rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaks but it can allow for much wider, clearer sheets of glass to be used in windows than would be possible without the need for leaded lights. Energy efficiency Traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness and multilayer construction as well as attention to particulars. The large glass surfaces, the deep projection cills and wide glazing areas reduce air infiltration. Windows can be designed to increase their energy efficiency by draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However it is essential to keep in mind that any such measures should be evaluated in the context of the overall integrity and appearance of the window in its original form. As a result, retaining the existing windows from the past that require repair rather than replacing them makes sense, particularly when their thermal enhancements can be achieved cost-effectively through simple repairs and upgrades. The windows that are historic have a lot considered to be of historical value because they reflect a variety of technological advancement and changes in architectural style. Many people believe that the windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, many of them will last for 150, 200, or even 250 years with proper maintenance. It is crucial to recognize that the decay problems caused by traditional timber windows can be prevented by thorough maintenance and swift repairs. In addition it is vital to recognize damp penetration issues and to remedy them quickly to prevent serious damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early can be a problem because it allows moisture to get into the wood, causing wet rot. This damage is often not apparent until the paintwork becomes damaged or wavy however, it can cause serious structural damage, and could lead to further decay. A high-quality paint will prevent this moisture penetration. To avoid condensation and mould it is essential 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 can result in the formation of mildew inside the window frame. The majority of older windows were manufactured from timber containing an extensive proportion of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to moist weather conditions, but they can be preserved with an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are used. It is crucial to select the right type of wood for the site 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 customized to fit historic openings. They can be constructed according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to specific sizes that are in keeping with the historic architecture. Maintenance Regular inspections carefully redecorated, as well as prompt repairs can extend the lifespan of windows made of timber. The primary cause of wood decay is moisture leaking through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a good wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood. Repairs to old sash windows and window frames made of casement should be handled with care and with the least amount of disruption. It is possible to repair the majority of traditional wooden window designs without removing the frame. This is a must whenever it is possible. Remove any peeling or loose paint and lightly sand the surface to improve the 'key” of the surface. This will allow the new coating to stick better. It is crucial to avoid removing old paint layers, which may have historical significance. Where a section of timber has begun to decay, the best way to proceed is to eliminate the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The wood that is being inserted should be treated with a wood preserver and the joint between the timber cill and the sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed. Replacement of traditional windows using PVC-u may be an appealing option, particularly when the installer offers a “one-stop shop” installation that handles removal and replacement in one day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make appropriate recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological advancements that won't harm the character of a building that is historic. The window installers who provide replacement windows must be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed as a suitable solution in accordance with Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u windows that are suited to original building's character. This is especially applicable when windows are situated within conservation areas or listed buildings.