A Help Guide To Cambridge Window From Beginning To End

Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is a significant element of the historic fabric of a structure. It demonstrates in various degrees the materials and technologies design, craftsmanship and aesthetics of the time from which it dates.

When Upvc Door repairs are feasible to existing windows are required, they should be made in-situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay is possible by using specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were built to last for centuries. They do require maintenance to ensure they look good. The most frequent maintenance tasks are repairs to sash-cords, re-tightening sash pulleys, and painting. The need to upgrade timber windows to increase efficiency in energy use is also growing. This may include replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window doctor near me rebates or installing new cills for improved air seal.

A key problem with traditional windows is the damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially true when sash windows are concerned, as the gaps between sashes can be very large. In these situations water can get into the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood beneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the rotting. To avoid this windows, they should be painted regularly using an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

The areas that are damaged should be repaired with a resin-based product. This will ensure that the maximum amount of the original fabric is retained. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes that are made into the frame in order to allow cable entry because they could let in moisture and cause decay.

Another major issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall that can lead to deformation of the frame and the sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly and jamming or sticking into 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 needs to be constructed of a strong hardwood like oak, to prevent differential movement between new and existing work.

To alleviate this issue, there are now a number of companies who produce Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit most existing openings. They are available in a range of sizes and finishes that meet the needs of the modern homeowner. Together with quadruple draught strips and a better thermal insulation, these sashes can make a a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of your home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal, as they show, in some form, the quality of the wood technology, the construction process, and the architectural taste from the time period they were constructed. They could have significant historical value in their own right. This is especially true of early unglazed window openings in timber double glazed windows Cambridge framed buildings which were simply a series of openings within the frame, which were divided horizontally into mullions, and vertically into iron or wood bars to keep out intrusions.

Traditional timber window joinery is a beautiful element of a structure and is crucial to keep its appearance. When you spot any signs of decay caused by the penetration of moisture it is essential to stop it. This is best done by painting thoroughly, especially in areas where there has already been damage or degradation. It is advisable to use paints that are specifically designed to be used part of a system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations in terms of preparation and the amount of coats needed at each stage.

Wet rot is a common problem in old timber windows and the best method to stop it from developing is to remove any damaged or rotten sections as soon as you can to prevent the spread of the fungus that causes it. Replace rotting wood with slow-growing deal (pine), and if possible, the same type of timber as the one being removed, to avoid the possibility of differential movement.

In the late medieval and 17th century periods glass became cheaper and more plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became more sophisticated with wooden tracery, moulded mullions and deep projection cills. In recent years, glass was pinned into rebated frames with double glazing cambridge sprigs rather than lead cames. This method of double glazing near me is not only less prone to leaks but it can allow for much wider, clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would otherwise have been possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness and multilayer construction as well as focus on detail. They also feature large glass areas and deep projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draught proofing, windows can be made more efficient to increase their energy efficiency. However it is essential to keep in mind that these measures must be considered in relation to the overall quality and appearance of the window in its original form.

It makes sense to fix or upgrade historic windows rather than replace them, particularly when improvement in thermal efficiency can be achieved through simple fixes. The windows of the past often have an historic value that illustrates a variety of technological advancement and changes in architectural taste. The pressures to replace such windows are usually based on the assumption that windows that are old will need to be replaced in the near future, however most are still capable of providing service for 150, 200 and even 250 years if properly maintained.

It is essential to realize that decay issues in traditional timber windows are easily prevented with prompt and thorough repairs. It is also crucial to identify damp problems and address them promptly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint is a concern because it allows moisture to get into the wood, leading to wet rot. This type of damage is typically not apparent until the paintwork is damaged or wavy, but can cause significant structural damage and can lead to further decay.

A paint of good quality will block moisture penetration. To prevent condensation and mould it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. Modern synthetic paints pose a problem because they are often water-resistant, and can cause mildew to develop within the window frame.

Most older windows were made from sapwood-rich timber. These timbers can deteriorate very rapidly if exposed to wet weather conditions, but they can be protected with a thorough preservative treatment before they are used. It is important to choose the right kind of wood for the location and climate, as these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers create various types of timber sash that can be customized to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They can be made according to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that fit with the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance

The life of timber windows can be extended considerably by regular inspection as well as a careful redecoration and timely repair. The primary cause of wood decay is moisture leaking through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided with careful painting and the use of high-quality wood preservative.

Repairs to sash windows that are old and window frames made of casement must be done with care and minimal disruption. Many traditional timber window designs can be repaired without removing the frame, and this option should be taken whenever possible. Remove loose or peeling paint and lightly sand the surface to improve the "key" of the surface. This will enable the new coating to adhere better. It is important to avoid stripping old paint layers which might have historical significance, and where these are present it is recommended that a study of the paint be carried out.

When a section of wood is rotting the best option is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts that are shaped to match existing profiles. The timber inserts should be treated using wood preservative, and the joint between the masonry sub-cill and the timber cill should be sealed.

Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u is an attractive option, especially when the installer offers a 'one stop shop' installation service that can handle removal and replacement in a day. It is essential that the person installing replacement windows has a full knowledge of the construction and history of traditional wooden frames. This will allow them to make appropriate 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 under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved as a suitable option under Building Regulations. It is quite possible for a skilled and experienced carpenter to install PVC-u windows that match the the original building. This is especially true where windows are situated in listed buildings or conservation areas.