Is Cambridge Window Really As Vital As Everyone Says?
Maintaining Timber Windows
A well-maintained and maintained timber window is a significant element of the historic fabric of a building. It demonstrates in various degrees the different materials and technologies as well as the craftsmanship and architectural style of the period that it was built in.
If possible, repairs should be made on-site. Repairing the most deteriorated areas of decay can be accomplished using proprietary resin-based systems.
Durability
Timber windows were built to last for hundreds of years. But, they have to be maintained to ensure that they look good and functioning correctly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords as well as tightening the pulleys for sash and painting. The demand for enhancing timber windows in order to increase efficiency in energy use is also growing. This could include replacing old glazing units, repairing existing upvc window repairs near me rebates or installing new cills to improve air seal.
One of the major issues 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 the sashes can be extremely large. In these situations, water can penetrate the paint film and cause rotting 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 regularly painted with an exterior wood paint that is suitable.
The areas that are damaged should be repaired using resin-based products. This will ensure that the highest possible amount of the original fabric is retained. It is also important to reduce the number of holes drilled into the frame to allow cable entry since these could allow water in and cause decay.
Another major issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall that could cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can result in the sash fitting incorrectly jamming, sticking or sagging in the opening, and even broken glass. Often this can be corrected by fitting new sash boxes constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be made of a strong hardwood like oak, to avoid differential movement between new and existing work.
To reduce the risk, there are now several companies that make Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit into the majority of existing openings. The sash is available in various sizes and finishes to suit the needs of modern homeowners. Combined with quadruple draught strips and improved thermal insulation, these sashes can make a significant improvements to the energy efficiency of a house.
Aesthetics
Many old timber windows have a high aesthetic value because they typically illustrate, in some way, the materials and technology and architectural taste of the time in when they were built. They may have significant historical value as a set. This is especially true for windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed structures, where the great majority were simply a series of openings within the structural frame sub-divided horizontally into mullions and iron or wood bars to keep out invaders.
Traditional window repairs near me 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 caused by water penetration is removed as soon as it is discovered. It is best to do this through thorough painting, especially if there is damage or deterioration. It is best to use paints that are designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for preparation and number of coats at each stage.
Wet rot is a common problem for old timber windows and the best way to stop it becoming a problem is to take out any damaged or rotten sections as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the fungus that causes it. The replacement of rotting timber must be done with care by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, if possible it is the same species as which is being removed to avoid differential movement between the new section and existing timbers.
In the late the 17th and early the medieval periods, glass became more affordable and abundant, so that the double glazed door seal repairs openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became more elegant with wooden tracery moulded mullions, moulded mullions, and deep projection cills. In recent times, glass was pinned into rebated frames with cambridge double glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less susceptible to leaks, but it can allow for larger clearer, more transparent sheets of glass to be used in windows than would otherwise have been possible without the need for leaded lights.
Energy efficiency
The traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness and multilayer construction as well as care for particulars. They also have large glass areas as well as deep projection cills which reduce air infiltration. The windows can be made to increase their energy efficiency through draughtproofing and secondary glazing. It is important to keep in mind that these measures need to be considered when it comes to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows.
So, retaining old windows that are in need of repair instead of replacing them makes sense, particularly when their thermal enhancements can be achieved inexpensively with simple double glazed door repairs and upgrades. The windows of the past often have an historic value that illustrates a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural taste. Many people believe that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, most can still provide service for 150,200, and even 250 years if you take care of maintenance.
It is crucial to understand that decay problems with traditional timber windows can be easily prevented with prompt and thorough upvc repairs. It is also crucial to spot damp issues and fix them quickly to avoid major damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early could be a problem as it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, which can cause wet rot. This damage is often not noticed until the paintwork becomes damaged or wavy however, it can cause serious structural damage and can lead to further decay.
A good paint will prevent moisture penetration. To prevent condensation and mould it is essential to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints pose a challenge because they are often water-resistant and may cause mildew to grow within the window frame.
The majority of windows from the past were made from timber that contained an extensive proportion of sapwood. These timbers deteriorate quickly if exposed to rain, but they can be protected by a thorough preservation treatment before use. It is also essential to ensure that the kind of wood used is suited to the climate and site conditions, as these elements affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers make a variety of timber sash that can be customized to fit specific historic openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to suit the architectural style of historic structures.
Maintenance
The life span of windows made from timber can be extended significantly by regular inspection, careful redecoration and prompt repair. The primary cause of wood decay is moisture leaking through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a good wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.
Repairs to old sash windows and frameless casement windows should be handled with care and minimal disruption. Many traditional timber window designs can be repaired without dismantling the frame, and this approach should be taken whenever feasible. Remove peeling or loose paint and then lightly sand the surface to improve the ‘key» of the surface. This will enable the new coating to stick better. It is crucial to avoid removing old paint layers, as they may have historical significance.
Where a section of timber has become rotten the best option is to take out the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The timber that is inserted should be treated using wood preservative and the junction between the masonry sub-cill and the timber 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 service that can handle removal and replacement within one day. However, it is essential that the person installing replacement windows has a complete knowledge of the construction and history of traditional wooden frames. This will allow them to make the right suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technical improvements that won’t harm the historical character of a building. The windows that are replaced should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved as a suitable solution in accordance with Building Regulations. It is quite possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-u windows that are sympathetic to the the building originally. This is particularly applicable when windows are in listed buildings or conservation areas.