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Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained window made of timber is an important element of the historic fabric of a building. It reflects in varying levels, the materials and technologies of the time period it was constructed, the craftsmanship and architectural taste. If it is possible, repairs must be made in-situ. The repair system that is based on resin can be used to repair the most damaged areas of decay without having to remove the entire window. Durability The timber windows in many historical structures were designed to last for centuries. But, they have to be maintained to ensure that they look good and operating correctly. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. The demand for enhancing timber windows to increase energy efficiency is also growing. This could include replacing old glazing units, fixing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills to increase the air seal. A key problem with traditional windows is the damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is particularly important when sash windows are involved as the gaps between sashes can be very wide. In these circumstances water can get into the paint film and cause decay of the putty and the wood underneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the decay. To stop this from happening windows from becoming rotten, they must be painted regularly using a suitable exterior wood paint. Areas that have been damaged must be repaired using resin-based products. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric is preserved. It is also essential to reduce the number of holes drilled into the frame to allow cable entry since these could allow water in and cause decay. The wall's structural movement can cause deformations in the frame and the sash. This can lead to sash not fitting correctly jamming, sticking or sagging in the opening, and broken glass. This can be corrected often by putting in new sash frames made of slow-grown deal (pine), or oak. The cill must be made from a sturdy hardwood, like oak, to avoid shifting between the new and older work. To help reduce this problem There are a variety of companies that make Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit most existing openings. These sash come in a variety of sizes and finishes that will fit the needs of modern homeowners. Together with quadruple draught strips and improved thermal insulation, these sashes can make a a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of your home. Aesthetics Many old wooden windows have an excellent 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 a significant historical significance in their individual cases. This is particularly true for windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed buildings, where the majority of them were series of openings in structural frames subdivided horizontally by mullions with vertical wood or iron bars to protect against invaders. Traditional timber window joinery is a beautiful element of a structure and it is important to maintain its appearance. It is crucial that any decay that results from water penetration is removed as soon as it is recognised. This is best accomplished by a thorough painting process, especially in areas that have already suffered damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints specifically designed to be used part of the system (primer undercoat, finish) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations in terms of preparation and the number of coats required at each stage. The fungus responsible for wet rot can spread quickly in old windows made of timber. To prevent this from happening, get rid of any damaged or rotten parts as quickly as you can. Replace the wood that is rotting with slow-growing deal (pine) and, when possible, the exact type of timber that is being removed to prevent the possibility of differential movement. Glass became cheaper and more abundant during the late medieval period and into the 17th century. This led to glazed openings on timber-framed houses became more complicated with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and deep cills projecting into the air. The glazing was increasingly set within rebated frames and secured by 'glazing sprigs' rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less prone to leaking but also allows for more expansive and clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would otherwise be possible without the need for leaded lights. Energy efficiency Traditional timber windows offer excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness and multi-layer construction, as well as attentive attention to detail. They also feature large glass areas as well as deep projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, windows can be upgraded to improve their energy efficiency. However, it is important to remember that such measures must be considered in the context of the overall quality and appearance of the original window. As double glazing cambridge , retaining old windows that are in need of repair instead of replacing them makes sense particularly when thermal improvements can be achieved economically through simple repairs and upgrades. Older windows typically have historical significance that illustrates a variety of technical development and changes in architectural taste. The pressures to replace such windows are typically based on the assumption that old windows will need replacement in the near future, but they are capable of providing service for 150, 200 or even 250 years if properly maintained. It is essential to understand that the decay issues that are that are typical of windows made of timber can be avoided by regular maintenance and prompt repairs. Additionally it is vital to spot damp penetration issues and to remedy them quickly to avoid serious damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early could be a problem as it allows moisture to get into the wood, leading to wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go unnoticed until the paintwork starts to crack or turn wavier. However, it can cause structural damage and then further decay. A quality paint will block moisture penetration. To avoid condensation and mould, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. Modern synthetic paints can be problematic since they are typically formulated to be water-resistant, and this may cause the growth of mildew inside the window frame. Most older windows were made from sapwood-rich timber. These timbers deteriorate quickly if exposed to rain, but they can be protected by a thorough preservation treatment before use. It is essential to select the right kind of wood for the site and the climate, since these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers make a variety of timber sash that can be adapted to fit specific historic openings. They can be built according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that are in keeping with historic buildings. Maintenance The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended considerably through regular inspections as well as a careful redecoration and timely repair. The main cause of decay is the penetration of moisture through deteriorated paint or putty. This can be prevented by careful painting and using a good quality wood preservative. It is important that repairs to old sash or casement windows are done correctly and completed without causing any disturbance. It is possible to fix the majority of traditional wooden window designs without taking the frame off. This is a must whenever it is possible. Peeling or loose paint should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to improve the key of the surface and allow for an improved adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid stripping old paint layers that might have historical significance If these are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted. If a portion of wood is rotting the best way to deal with it is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts designed to match existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with a wood preserver and the connection between the timber cill and masonry sub-cill should be sealed. It can be tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, especially if the installer offers an installation that includes both replacement and removal within a single day. It is crucial that installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the right suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technological upgrades that do not alter the historic character of a building. The window installers who provide replacement windows must be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are deemed acceptable in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable option. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to original building's character. This is especially applicable when windows are located within conservation areas or listed buildings.