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Maintaining Timber WindowsA well-maintained wooden window is an important component of a historical building. It reflects in different degree the materials and technologies of the time it was constructed, as well as the design and craftsmanship.When possible, repairs should be done in-situ. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to repair the most deteriorated areas without removing the entire window.DurabilityThe windows made of timber in many historic buildings were built to last for a long time. They do require maintenance to ensure they look good. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs, re-tightening sash pulleys, and painting. There is also a rising demand to upgrade the timber windows to improve energy efficiency. This may mean replacing old glass units, fixing existing window rebates, or installing new cills for improved air sealing.The corrosion of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is particularly important when windows made of sash are involved because the gaps between the sashes can be quite large. In these situations water can enter the paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty beneath. The rotting process can be made worse due to weather conditions that are poor. To stop this from happening, windows must be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint.Areas that have been damaged must be repaired with resin-based products. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric remains. It is important to minimize the number of holes that are drilled into the frame to allow cable access, as these can admit moisture and cause decay.Another issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall that can lead to deformation of the frame and sash. This could result in sash not fitting correctly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and even broken glass. This can be corrected often by putting in new sash frames constructed of slow-growing deal (pine), or oak. The cill must be constructed of a durable hardwood like oak to avoid any movement between the new and existing work.To help reduce this problem There are a variety of companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash that can be fitted into most openings. These sash are available in a variety of sizes and finishes to meet the requirements of the modern homeowner. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and a better thermal insulation, these sashes can make a a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of a home.AestheticsMany old timber frames have a great aesthetic appeal because they reflect, in some form, the materials technology, the construction process, and the architectural aesthetics of the time they were constructed. They could also have a significant historical significance in their own right. This is particularly true for early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed buildings, in which the majority of them were series of openings within structural frames subdivided horizontally by mullions with vertical iron or wood bars to protect against invaders.It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. As soon as you see any signs of decay caused by water penetration it is crucial to stop it. It is recommended to do this by thorough painting, particularly if there has been damage or deterioration. It is best to use paints designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preparation and number of coats at each stage.The fungus responsible for wet rot can spread quickly in old timber windows. To prevent this, take out any rotten or damaged parts as quickly as you can. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine), and if possible, the same type of timber as the one that is being removed to prevent differential movement.Glass became cheaper and more abundant during the late medieval period and into the 17th century. In the process, the openings for glazed windows on timber-framed houses became more complex with moulded mullions and traceries, made of wood and deep projecting cills. In recent years, glazing was fixed into rebated frames with glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak, but also allows for more clear glass sheets to be employed than would be feasible without the use of lead lights.Energy efficiencyTraditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness and multilayer construction as well as focus on particulars. The large glass surfaces, the deep projection cills and wide glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, the windows can be improved to improve their energy efficiency. It is crucial to remember that these measures must be taken into consideration when it comes to the overall integrity and appearance of the original windows.It is logical to fix or upgrade windows, rather than replacing them, particularly when improvements in thermal efficiency can be achieved through simple repairs. Older windows are usually considered to be of historical value because they reflect a variety of technological advancements and changes to architectural taste. The pressures to replace such windows are typically based on the assumption that windows of the past will require replacement in the near future, however the majority of them are in a position to last for 150, 200 or even 250 years if properly maintained.It is crucial to recognize that the decay issues that are that are typical of windows made of timber can be avoided by regular maintenance and swift repairs. It is also crucial to identify damp problems and correct them swiftly in order to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint is a major problem as it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this type of damage to go undetected until the paintwork begins to crack or becomes curly. However, it can cause structural damage and further decay.A paint of good quality will block moisture penetration. It is also essential to keep the paintwork clean in order to prevent condensation and the growth of mould. The use of modern synthetic paints could be a problem since they are typically designed to be water-resistant which can cause the growth of mildew inside the window frame.The majority of windows from the past were constructed from sapwood-rich timber. These timbers can deteriorate very quickly when exposed to wet weather, however they can be protected with a thorough treatment of preservative before they are put to use. It is crucial to select the right kind of wood for your location and the climate, since these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers provide a wide range of timber sash which can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be produced in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to suit the architectural style of historic structures.MaintenanceThe life of timber windows can be extended considerably through regular inspections as well as a careful redecoration and prompt repair. The most common reason for decay is moisture infiltration through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by using a high-quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.Repairs to sash windows that are old and window frames made of casement should be handled with care and minimal disruption. It is possible to fix the majority of traditional wooden window designs without removing the frame. This should be done whenever possible. Peeling or loose paint should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to increase the ‘key’ of the surface and facilitate an easier adhesion of the new coating. It is important to avoid stripping paint layers that could have historical value If these are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be conducted.If a piece of timber has begun to decay, the best way to proceed is to remove the rotted 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 preservative, and the junction between the timber cill and masonry sub-cill should be sealed.Replacement of traditional windows using PVC-u can be a tempting option, especially when the installer provides a ‘one stop shop’ installation that takes care of removal and replacement in the span of a day. It is crucial that the person who installs replacement windows has a complete knowledge of the structure and history of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technical upgrades that won’t harm the historic character of a building. Those who provide replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like as FENSA. window maintenance will ensure that the replacement windows are approved as a suitable option under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u windows that conform to the original building’s style. This is especially true where windows are situated in listed buildings and conservation areas.