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Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained wooden window is an important component of a historical building. It is a representation of the various materials and techniques, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the time period from which it originates. When possible, repairs should be made on-site. Proprietary resin-based repair systems can be used to repair the most deteriorated areas without removing the entire window. Durability The timber windows in many old buildings were built to last for a long time. However, they need to be maintained to keep them looking good and operating properly. The most common maintenance tasks are repairs to sash-cords, re-tightening sash pulleys, and painting. There is also a rising demand for upgrading timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This can involve replacing old glass units, fixing existing window rebates, or installing new cills that allow for better air sealing. The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is particularly important when windows with sash are involved since the gaps between sashes can be extremely large. In these cases water can enter the paint film and cause rotting of the putty or wood beneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the rotting. To stop this from happening windows from becoming rotten, they must be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint that is suitable. In addition to repainting, corroded areas need to be repaired with the help of a resin-based repair solution. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric remains. It is essential to limit the number of holes that are drilled into the frame to allow cable entry, since they can let in moisture and cause decay. The structural movement of the wall can also lead to distortions in the frame and the sash. This could result in the sash fitting incorrectly and jamming or sticking into the opening, and even broken glass. This is often corrected by fitting new sash frames made of slow-grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed of a strong hardwood like oak, in order to prevent any shifting between the new and existing work. There are several companies that produce Boston pattern wooden sash to fit in with the majority of openings. The sash is 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 new sash can make an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a house. Aesthetics Many old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal, as they reflect, in some shape, the materials technology, design, and aesthetics of the time they were constructed. They may have significant historical value in their own right. This is especially true of early unglazed windows in timber-framed structures, where the majority were simply a series openings in structural frames that were subdivided horizontally by mullions and vertical iron or wood bars in order to keep out intrusions. It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. It is essential that any decay that results from the penetration of moisture should be stopped as soon as it is discovered. This can be done by a thorough painting process, especially in areas in which there is already damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints specifically designed to be used as part of a system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines regarding preparation and number of coats required at each stage. Wet rot is a typical 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 stop the spread of the fungus that causes it. The replacement of rotting timber should be carefully undertaken by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, if possible it is the same species as which is being removed in order to prevent differential movement between the new and old timbers. Glass became less expensive and more abundant during the late medieval period and into the 17th century. This led to the openings for glazed windows on timber-framed houses were more elaborate, with moulded mullions, tracery made of wood and cills that protruded deep. In recent times, glass was fixed to rebated frames with glazing sprigs instead of lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes the windows less likely to leak, but also allows for wider sheets of clearer glass to be employed than would be possible otherwise without the use of lead lights. Energy efficiency Traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness, multilayer construction and focus on particulars. They also have large glass areas and deep projecting cills that reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, windows can be upgraded to increase their energy efficiency. It is important to keep in mind that these measures need to be taken into consideration in relation to the overall integrity and look of the original windows. It is sensible to fix or upgrade windows, rather than replacing them, especially when the improvement in energy efficiency can be made through simple repairs. The windows of the past often have an historic value that shows a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural style. Many people believe that these windows will have to be replaced in the near future. However, most will last for 150,200, and even 250 years with proper maintenance. use this link is important to recognize that decay issues associated with traditional timber windows are preventable by prompt and thorough repairs. It is also important to identify damp problems and correct them swiftly in order to avoid major damage. Paint deterioration that occurs early can be a problem because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, which can cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go unnoticed until paintwork begins to crack or become curly. However, it can cause structural damage and then further decay. A quality paint will block moisture penetration. It is also essential to keep the paintwork spotless in order to prevent mould and condensation. Modern synthetic paints can pose a problem since they are typically formulated to be water-resistant, which can result in the formation of mildew inside the window frame. Most older windows were made of sapwood-rich timber. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration rapidly if exposed to wet weather conditions, but they can be preserved with a thorough treatment of preservative before they are put to use. It is also important to ensure that the type of wood used is suited to the climate and site conditions, since these factors affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers have a wide range of timber sash which can be customized to fit historic openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to suit historical structures. Maintenance The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended considerably by regular inspection, careful redecoration and timely repair. The main cause of decay is moisture leaking through deteriorated paint or putty. This can be avoided with thorough painting and using high-quality wood preservative. Repairs to old sash windows and frameless casement windows must be done with care and with minimal disruption. Repairs can be made to several traditional designs of timber windows without having to remove the frame. This should be done whenever possible. Loose or peeling paint should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to increase the “key” of the surface, allowing for a better adhesion of the new coating. It is crucial to avoid removing old paint layers, which may have historical significance. If a piece of wood is rotting the best option is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts designed to match the existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with a wood preserver, and the junction between the timber cill and the sub-cill for masonry should be sealed. Replacement of traditional windows using PVC-u may be a tempting option, especially when the installer provides a 'one stop shop' installation that takes care of both removal and replacement within one day. It is important that the installers of replacement windows have a thorough understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technical upgrades that won't harm the historic character of a building. Anyone who installs replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are deemed acceptable in accordance with Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. A skilled carpenter is able to install PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to the original building's style. This is particularly true when the windows are situated within listed buildings or conservation areas.