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15 Shocking Facts About Cambridge Window You've Never Heard Of
Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is a crucial part of the historic fabric of a building. It illustrates in varying degrees the materials and technologies design, craftsmanship and aesthetics of the period from which it originates.

When possible, repairs should be made in-situ. Repairing the worst areas of decay can be accomplished with the help of specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

The windows made of wood in many old buildings were built to last for centuries. They require regular maintenance to keep them looking good. The most frequent maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords and re-tightening the sash pulleys and painting. The demand for enhancing windows made of timber to improve energy efficiency is also growing. This can involve replacing old glass units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or putting in new cills to allow for better air sealing.

The corrosion of paintwork is a major issue with traditional windows. This is particularly important when windows made of sash are involved because the gaps between sashes can be quite wide. In these cases, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting to the wood or putty underneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the decay. To prevent this windows, they should be painted regularly using a suitable exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, areas that have corroded need to be repaired with the help of a resin-based repair solution. This will ensure the maximum amount of original fabric retained. It is also important to reduce the number of holes drilled into the frame for cable entry as these can admit water and lead to decay.

Another significant problem with older windows is the structural movement within the wall which can cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can result in the sash not fitting properly, sticking or jamming in the opening and cracked glazing. Often this can be corrected through the installation of new sash boxes made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill needs to be constructed of a strong hardwood such as oak, to prevent the movement of new and existing work.

To alleviate this issue to reduce the risk of this happening, there are a number of companies who produce Boston pattern wooden sash that can be fitted into most openings. The sash is available in various sizes and finishes that will meet the requirements of modern-day homeowners. Combined with quadruple draught strips and better thermal insulation these new sash options can make an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal, since they display, in a certain form, the quality of the wood technology, design, and taste from the time period they were made. They also may have a significant historic value in their in their own right. This is particularly true for windows that were unglazed in the early days of timber-framed buildings, in which the majority were simply a series of openings within frames of structural construction, which were divided horizontally by mullions with vertical wood or iron bars to protect against invaders.

Traditional timber window joinery can be a stunning element of a structure and is crucial to keep its appearance. It is crucial that any decay resulting from moisture penetration should be removed as soon as it is identified. It is recommended to do this through thorough painting, especially where there has been damage or degradation. It is recommended to use paints designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish), and to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preparation and number coats at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot can quickly spread in old timber windows. To prevent this, get rid of any rotten or damaged parts as promptly as you are able to. The replacement of wood that is rotting should be done with care and using slow grown deal (pine) and, wherever feasible using the same species as that which is being removed to avoid shifting between the new section and the existing timbers.

In the late period of the 17th century and the middle of the medieval period, glass became less expensive and more abundant, and the openings for glazed glass in timber-framed buildings gradually became elegant with wooden tracery, moulded mullions and deep projection cills. In recent years, glass was fixed to frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak and break, but also allows larger sheets of glass to be employed than would be feasible without the use of led lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows are energy efficient due to their thickness, multilayer construction and care for particulars. They also have large glass areas and deep projection cills which reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, the windows can be improved to improve their energy efficiency. However it is crucial to keep in mind that these measures should be evaluated in the context of the overall appearance and integrity of the original window.

It is logical to fix or upgrade historic windows rather than replace them, particularly when improvements in thermal efficiency can be made through simple repairs. Older windows are usually considered to be of historical value because they demonstrate a variety in technological advancements and changes to architectural style. The pressures to replace these windows are typically based on the assumption that the windows that are old will need to be replaced in the near future, however most are still 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 associated with traditional timber windows can be prevented through regular maintenance and timely repairs. Additionally, it is essential to recognize damp penetration issues and to remedy them quickly to prevent serious damage. The early deterioration of paint could be a problem as it allows moisture to get into the wood, causing wet rot. This type of damage is typically not noticed until the paintwork becomes cracking or wavy but it can cause severe structural damage and lead to further decay.

A good paint will block moisture penetration. It is also important to keep the paintwork in good condition to avoid mould and condensation. Modern synthetic paints pose a problem because they are water-resistant and may cause mildew to grow within the window frame.

The majority of older windows were manufactured from timber containing an extensive proportion of sapwood. These timbers can deteriorate quickly when exposed to rain, however they can be protected by a thorough preservation treatment before use. It is important to choose the appropriate type of wood for the site and climate, as these variables will affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers create a range of sash made of timber that can be adapted to fit specific historic openings. They can be constructed to the standard Boston pattern dimensions, or to custom sizes that fit with historic buildings.

Maintenance

Regular inspection as well as careful redecoration and prompt repairs can extend the life of wooden windows. The primary reason for the decay is moisture infiltration through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be avoided with thorough painting and using high-quality wood preservative.

It is important that repairs to old sash and casement windows are well executed, and carried out with the minimum disturbance. double glazing in cambridge are repairable without removing the frame, and this method should be followed whenever possible. Peeling or loose paint should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to improve the "key" of the surface, allowing for a better adhesion of the new coating. It is crucial to not remove old paint layers, which may have historical value.

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

It's tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, particularly when the installer offers an 'all-in-one' installation which includes removal and replacement in a single day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows have a thorough understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make the appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technical improvements that will not harm the historic character of a building. Those who provide replacement windows should be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme like as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved as a suitable option under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to original building's character. This is especially true where the windows are located in listed buildings or conservation areas.