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Maintaining Timber WindowsA well-maintained wooden window is a crucial element of a building that is historic. It reflects, in various degree the materials and techniques of the time in which it was constructed, as well as the craftsmanship and architectural taste.If repairs are possible to windows that are already in use should be made in-situ. Repairing the worst areas of decay is possible using proprietary resin-based systems.DurabilityThe windows made of wood in many old buildings were made to last for a long time. However, they do need to be maintained to keep them looking good and operating properly. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. There is also a rising demand for upgrading timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This could mean replacing old glass units, fixing existing window rebates or putting up new cills the air to seal better.The corrosion of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is especially important where windows made of sash are involved because the gaps between sashes can be quite large. In these cases water can enter the paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty beneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the decay. To prevent this from happening, windows must be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.In addition to repainting, corroded areas need to be repaired with a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the greatest amount of the original fabric is retained. It is also essential to reduce the number of holes you drill into the frame to allow cable entry since these could admit water and lead to decay.Another issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall, which can cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can result in the sash not fitting properly or sticking or jamming into the opening and cracked glazing. This can be fixed frequently by putting in new sash frames made of slow-grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill needs to be constructed of a strong hardwood like oak, to avoid the movement of new and old work.To reduce the risk to reduce the risk of this happening, there are a variety of companies that make Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in a variety of sizes and finishes that meet the requirements of modern homeowners. Combined with quadruple draught strips and improved thermal insulation, these sashes can make a a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of a house.AestheticsMany old timber frames have a great aesthetic appeal because they reflect, in some shape, the materials technology, design, and aesthetics of the time they were made. They may have significant historical value as a set. This is especially true of windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed buildings, where the great majority were just a collection of openings in the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into wood or iron bars to keep out invaders.Traditional timber window joinery can be a highly decorative element of a structure and is crucial to maintain its appearance. It is vital that any decay caused by moisture penetration should be stopped as soon as it is identified. This can be done by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas where there has already been damage or degradation. It is advisable to use paints that are specifically designed to be used as part of the system (primer, undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines in relation to preparation and number of coats needed at each stage.The fungus that causes wet rot is able to spread quickly in old timber windows. To prevent this, take out any rotten or damaged parts as soon as you can. The replacement of rotting timber should be carefully undertaken using slow grown deal (pine) and, if possible, the same species as that which is being removed in order to prevent differential movement between the new section and existing timbers.In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became cheaper and more abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed buildings gradually became sophisticated, with tracery made of wood, moulded mullions and deep projection cills. In recent times, glass was fixed into frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak and break, but also allows larger sheets of glass to be utilized than would have been possible otherwise without the use of lead lights.Energy efficiencyTraditional timber windows provide a good energy performance due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very attentive attention to detail. The large glass areas, the deep projection cills and wide glazing areas minimize air infiltration. The windows can be modified to increase their energy efficiency through draughtproofing and secondary glazing. However it is essential to remember that such measures should be viewed in relation to the overall quality and appearance of the window in its original form.As a result, retaining the existing windows from the past that are in need of repair instead of replacing them is sensible, particularly when their thermal enhancements can be made inexpensively with simple repairs and improvements. Historic windows often have a historical value that illustrates a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural taste. Most people think that these windows will have to be replaced in the near future. However, most can still provide service for 150, 200 or even 250 years with proper maintenance.It is important to recognise that the decay problems associated with traditional windows made of timber can be avoided by regular maintenance and prompt repairs. It is also crucial to spot damp issues and address them promptly in order to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint is a concern because it allows moisture to get into the wood, which can cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this type of damage to go unnoticed until paintwork starts to crack or turn wavier. However, it can cause structural damage and lead to further decay.A good paint will prevent moisture penetration. It is also important to keep the paintwork spotless in order to prevent mould and condensation. Modern synthetic paints pose a problem because they are often water-resistant and can cause mildew growth in the window frame.The majority of older windows were constructed of sapwood-rich timber. These timbers can deteriorate very quickly when exposed to moist weather, but can be protected by a thorough preservative treatment before they are put to use. It is crucial to select the appropriate type of wood for the site and climate, as these factors can affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers produce a variety of timber sash that can be tailored to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be made to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that fit with the architectural style of historic buildings.MaintenanceThe life span of windows made from timber can be extended considerably through regular inspections, careful redecoration and prompt repair. The main cause of decay is the penetration of moisture through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by using a quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.Repairs to sash windows that are old and window frames made of casement must be done with care and minimal disruption. It is possible to repair many traditional timber window designs without removing the frame. This should be done as often as is feasible. Peeling or loose paint should be removed with care and sanded lightly to increase the key of the surface, allowing for a better adhesion of the new coating. Care should be taken to avoid stripping old paint layers which might have historical significance, and where these are present, it is recommended that a paint analysis be conducted.Where upvc door handle repairs near me of timber has begun to decay, the best course of action is to take out the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with wood preservative, and the junction between the timber cill and sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed.It can be tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, especially when the installer offers an all-in-one installation that includes removal and replacement within a single day. 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 enable them to make appropriate recommendations for energy-efficiency improvements and other technological improvements that don't affect the appearance of a historic building. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved as a suitable option under Building Regulations. It is, of course, possible for an experienced and skilled carpenter to install PVC-u windows that match the character of the building originally. This is particularly relevant when windows are in conservation areas or listed buildings.