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Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained wooden window is a crucial component of a historical building. It demonstrates in various degrees the materials and technologies, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the time period from which it originates. Whenever possible repairs to windows that are already in use should be done in-situ. Repairing the most deteriorated areas of decay is possible using proprietary resin-based systems. Durability Timber windows were made to last for hundreds of years. However, they need to be maintained to keep them looking great and working properly. The most frequent maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords as well as tightening sash pulleys and painting. The need to upgrade windows made of timber to improve energy efficiency is also growing. This can include replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window rebates, or installing new cills to improve air seal. One of the major issues with traditional windows is damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially important where windows with sash are involved since the gaps between the sashes can be extremely large. In these situations water may get through the paint film and cause rotting of the putty as well as the wood beneath. The rotting can be exacerbated by poor weather conditions. To stop this from happening, windows should be painted regularly using an exterior wood paint that is suitable. The areas that are damaged should be repaired with resin-based products. This will ensure that the highest possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is also important to reduce the number of holes you drill into the frame to allow cable entry, as they could let in water and cause decay. Another significant problem with older windows is structural movement in the wall, which could cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can result in the sash not fitting properly, sticking or jamming in the opening and broken glazing. This is often corrected by fitting new sash frames constructed of slow-grown deal (pine), or oak. The cill should be made from a sturdy hardwood such as oak to avoid any movement between the new and existing work. There are Learn More Here that make Boston pattern wooden sash to fit in with the majority of openings. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit the needs of today's homeowner. These new sash, when combined with quadruple draft strip and a better thermal insulation, can make a huge difference to the energy-efficiency of a home. Aesthetics Many old wooden windows have an excellent aesthetic value as they often demonstrate, in a way, the materials and technology and architectural style of the time in when they were built. They could also have a significant historic value in their individual cases. This is especially true for windows that were unglazed in the early days of 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 keep out intrusions. It is essential to preserve the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. It is crucial that any decay resulting from the penetration of moisture should be stopped as soon as it is discovered. It is best to do this with thorough painting, especially where there has been damage or degradation. It is advisable to use paints specifically designed to be used as part of the system (primer, undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines in terms of preparation and the amount of coats needed at each stage. The fungus that causes wet rot is able to spread quickly in old windows made of wood. To prevent this from happening, remove any rotten or damaged parts as soon as you can. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine) and, should it be possible, the same type of timber that is being removed to prevent differential movement. Glass became less expensive and more abundant in the late medieval era and into the 17th century. As a result, the glazed openings in timber-framed homes were more elaborate, with moulded mullions, tracery made of wood and cills that protruded deep. Increasingly, the glazing was laid within rebated frames and then pinned with 'glazing sprigs', rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less susceptible to leaks, but also allows for much wider, 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 provide a good energy performance due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very careful attention to detailing. They also have large glass areas and deep projection cills which reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, the windows can be improved to increase their energy efficiency. It is crucial to remember that these measures should be considered when it comes to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows. It makes sense to repair or upgrade existing historic windows rather than replace them, particularly when improvements in thermal efficiency can be made by simple repairs. Older windows typically have a historical value that illustrates a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural taste. Most people assume that these windows will have to be replaced in the near future. However, many of them are still in service for 150, 200, or even 250 years with proper maintenance. It is crucial to recognize that the decay problems that are typical of windows made of timber can be avoided by regular maintenance and prompt repairs. In addition it is vital to recognize damp penetration issues and address them swiftly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint is a major issue, since it allows moisture penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go undetected until the paintwork begins to crack or becomes curly. However, it can cause structural damage and lead to further decay. A good paint will prevent moisture penetration. To prevent mould and condensation it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints pose a challenge since they are usually water-resistant and can cause mildew growth in the window frame. The majority of windows from the past were made from timber that contained the majority of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate quickly when exposed to rain, but they can be protected by a thorough preservation process prior to use. It is important to choose the right type of wood for the location and the climate, since these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers offer various types of timber sash which can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be built according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to specific sizes that fit with the architectural style of historic buildings. Maintenance Regular inspection carefully redecorated, as well as prompt repairs can extend the life of wooden windows. The main cause of decay is moisture penetration through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided with thorough painting and the use of a good quality wood preservative. Repairs to old sash windows as well as window frames made of casement must be done with care and with the least amount of disruption. Repairs can be made to the majority of traditional wooden window designs without having to remove the frame. This is a must whenever it is possible. Remove any 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. Be careful to avoid stripping paint layers that might have historical significance and if they are present, it is recommended that a paint analysis be conducted. If a portion of wood is decayed, the best solution is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The wood that is inserted should be treated with a wood preservative, and the junction between the cill for timber and the sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed. Replacement of traditional windows using PVC-u is an appealing option, particularly when the installer offers a “one-stop shop” installation service that can handle removal and replacement in a day. However, it is crucial that the person who installs replacement windows has a complete knowledge of the construction and history of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the right recommendations for energy efficiency improvements as well as other technological upgrades that won't alter the appearance of a building that is historic. Anyone who installs replacement windows should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme like as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacement windows are approved as a suitable solution in accordance with Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u windows that conform to the original building's style. This is particularly true where the windows are located in listed buildings or conservation areas.