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Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained wooden window is an essential component of a historical building. It is a representation of the different materials and technologies, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the time from which it originates. When repairs are feasible to windows that are already in use should be made in situ. Repairing the most deteriorated areas of decay is possible by using specialized resin-based systems. Durability Timber windows were made to last hundreds of years. They require regular maintenance to ensure they look good. The most common maintenance tasks are repairs to sash-cords, re-tightening sash pulleys, and painting. The demand for enhancing windows made of timber to improve energy efficiency is also growing. This may mean replacing old glass units, fixing the window rebates that are in place or putting in new cills to allow for improved air sealing. The corrosion of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is especially important in the case of sash windows because the gaps between sashes may be very large. In these cases water can get into paint film and cause rotting of the putty or wood beneath. The rotting process can be made worse due to weather conditions that are poor. To avoid this windows, they should be painted regularly with a suitable exterior wood paint. The areas that are damaged should also be repaired using a resin-based product. This will ensure the maximum amount of original fabric is retained. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes that are created into the frame to allow cable entry as these can admit moisture and cause decay. Another issue with older windows is the structural movement within the wall, which can cause deformation of the frame and the sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly, sticking or jamming in the opening and broken glazing. This can be corrected often by fitting new sash frames made of slow-grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be constructed from durable hardwood such as oak to prevent movement between the new and existing work. There are a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash to fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in various sizes and finishes that will suit the needs of modern-day homeowners. 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 timber frames have a great aesthetic appeal, since they display, in a certain form, the quality of the wood technology, design, and aesthetics of the time they were built. They could also have a significant historical significance in their own right. This is particularly true of early unglazed windows in timber-framed structures, where the majority were series of openings in frames of structural construction, which were divided horizontally by mullions with vertical iron or wood bars in order to keep out intrusions. Traditional window joinery made of timber can be a highly decorative feature of a building and is crucial to maintain its appearance. It is vital that any decay resulting from water penetration is stopped as soon as it is recognised. This is best done by a thorough painting process, especially in areas that have already suffered damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints 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 is able to spread quickly in old timber windows. To stop this from happening, take out any rotten or damaged parts as quickly as you can. Replace rotting wood with slow-growing deal (pine) and, when possible, the exact type of timber as the one that is being removed, to avoid the possibility of differential movement. Glass became less expensive and more abundant in the late medieval period and into the 17th century. This led to glazed openings on timber-framed houses were more elaborate, with moulded mullions, tracery made of wood and deep projecting 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, but also allows for larger sheets of glass to be used than would have been possible without the use of lead lights. Energy efficiency Traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness, multilayer construction and care for detail. The large glass areas, deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas minimize air infiltration. The windows can be made to increase their energy efficiency by draught-proofing and secondary glazing. However it is crucial to keep in mind that any such measures should be viewed in terms of the overall appearance and integrity of the original window. It makes sense to repair or upgrade existing historic windows rather than replace them, particularly when improvement in thermal efficiency can be achieved through simple repairs. The windows that are historic have a lot of historical value, as they demonstrate a variety in technological advancement and changes in architectural style. The pressures to replace these windows are usually based on the assumption that old windows will need replacement in the near future, but they are capable of serving for 150, 200 and even 250 years, if properly maintained. It is important to recognise that the decay problems that are typical of timber windows can be avoided by regular maintenance and swift repairs. In addition it is crucial to identify damp penetration problems and address them swiftly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint is a particular problem, because it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. This damage is often not apparent until the paintwork becomes cracking or wavy, but can cause significant structural damage and lead to further decay. A good paint will block moisture penetration. To avoid condensation and mould it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints can be problematic since they are typically designed to be water-resistant and this can cause the growth of mildew in the window frame. The majority of older windows were manufactured from timber containing the majority of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate very quickly when exposed to wet weather, but can be protected with a thorough treatment of preservative before they are put to use. It is important to choose the right type of wood for the location and climate, as these variables can affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers have a wide range of sash made from timber that can be adapted to fit historical openings. They can be built according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom dimensions that are compatible with the historic architecture. Maintenance The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended considerably by regular inspection, careful redecoration and timely repair. The primary reason for decay is moisture infiltration through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by using a quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly. It is important that repairs to old sash and casement windows are done correctly and done without causing any disturbance. A lot of traditional wooden window designs can be repaired without removing the frame, and this option should be followed whenever possible. Paint that is peeling or loose should be removed with care and sanded lightly to increase the “key” of the surface and facilitate an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is essential to not remove old paint layers that may have historical significance. When a piece of wood has begun to decay, the best way to proceed is to eliminate the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in inserts that are shaped to match existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with wood preservative, and the junction between the cill for timber and the sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed. It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC U, particularly when the installer provides an installation that includes both removal and replacement within a single day. It is important that the installers of replacement windows are aware of the history and construction of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technical upgrades that will not harm the historic character of a building. Window replacements should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed to be approved in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u windows that are suited to original building's character. window installation cambridge is especially true where windows are installed in listed buildings and conservation areas.