클잼 로고

• 목록
• 답변
• 글쓰기
• 게시판 리스트 옵션
  • 수정
  • 삭제

Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window doctor made of timber is a significant element of the historic structure of a building. It demonstrates in various degrees the materials and technologies, craftsmanship and architectural taste of the time period from which it originates.

If repairs are possible to windows that are already in use should be carried out in-situ. Repairing the worst areas of decay can be accomplished with the help of specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

The windows made of timber in many historical buildings were made to last for centuries. However, they do need to be maintained to keep them looking good and functioning properly. Maintenance tasks include sash cord repairs, retightening of sash pulleys and painting. There is also a rising demand to upgrade the timber windows to increase energy efficiency. This could include replacing old glazing units, fixing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills for improved air seal.

The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is especially important where sash windows are involved as the gaps between sashes can be extremely wide. In these cases water can get into paint film and cause rotting to the wood or putty beneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the decay. To stop this from happening windows from becoming rotten, they must be painted regularly using an exterior wood paint that is suitable.

The areas that are damaged should be repaired with resin-based products. This will ensure that the greatest amount of original fabric preserved. It is essential to limit the number of holes that are made in the frame to allow cable access, as these can admit moisture and cause decay.

The structural movement of the wall can cause deformations in the frame and the sash. This can lead to the sash not fitting properly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and even broken glass. This is often corrected by fitting new sash frames constructed of slow-grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be made of a durable hardwood like oak to avoid any movement between the old and new work.

To reduce the risk, there are now a number of companies who produce Boston pattern wooden sash that will fit into the majority of existing openings. These sash come in a variety of sizes and finishes that fit the needs of modern homeowners. Combined with quadruple draught strips and a better thermal insulation, these new sash can make an enormous difference to the energy efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value as they often show, in a particular way the materials and technologies and architectural style of the time in which they originate. They may also have significant historical significance as a set. This is particularly true for early unglazed windows in timber-framed buildings, in which the majority were series of openings in frames of structural construction, which were divided horizontally by mullions with vertical wood or iron bars to keep out intrusions.

It is essential to preserve the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. It is essential that any decay that results from water penetration is stopped as soon as it is recognised. This is best done by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas where there has already been damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints designed to be used in a system (primer undercoat and finish) and to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preparation and number coats at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot is able to spread quickly in old windows made of wood. To prevent this from happening, take out any damaged or rotten parts as quickly as you can. Replace rotting wood with slow-grown deal (pine) and, when possible, the exact type of wood as the one that is being removed, to prevent differential movement.

Glass became cheaper and more abundant in the late medieval period and into the 17th century. This led to glazed openings on timber-framed houses became more complicated with moulded mullions, tracery made of wood and cills that protruded deep. In recent years, glazing was fixed to frames that were rebated with glazing sprigs, not lead cames. This method of glazing is not just 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 lead lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows offer a good energy performance due to their thickness and multi-layer construction. They also pay meticulous attention to detail. The large glass areas, the deep projecting cills and large glazing areas reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, the windows can be improved to improve their energy efficiency. It is important to keep in mind that these measures should be taken into consideration in relation to the overall integrity and look of the original windows.

It is logical to repair or upgrade existing historic windows rather than replace them, particularly when improvement in energy efficiency can be made through simple fixes. Older windows are usually considered to be of historical value because they show a range in technological advancements and changes to the architectural style. Many people believe that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, they will last for 150,200, and even 250 years if they are maintained with proper maintenance.

It is crucial to recognize that the decay issues that are associated with traditional windows made of timber can be avoided by regular maintenance and prompt upvc repairs near me. It is also important to identify damp problems and correct them swiftly to avoid major damage. Early paint deterioration is a concern because it allows moisture to penetrate into the wood, which can cause wet rot. This damage is often not apparent until the paintwork is cracking or wavy, but can cause significant structural damage and can lead to further decay.

A high-quality paint will stop this moisture from entering. To avoid condensation and mould it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as it can be. Modern synthetic paints are problematic since they are usually water-resistant and may cause mildew to develop in the window frame.

The majority of windows from the past were constructed from timber with the majority of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to moist weather conditions, but they can be preserved with a thorough treatment of preservative before they are used. It is essential to select the right type of wood for your location and climate, as these factors will affect the durability of the joinery. Local window repairs near me manufacturers have various types of sash timbers that can be customized to fit historic openings. They are available in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit the architectural style of historic buildings.

Maintenance

The lifespan of windows made of timber can be extended through regular inspections as well as a careful redecoration and prompt repair. The main cause of decay is moisture penetration through deteriorated paint or putty. This can be prevented by using a high-quality wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly.

It is important that repairs to old sash or casement windows are well executed and done with minimal disruption. Many of the traditional designs for timber windows can be repaired without removing 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 adhere better. It is essential to avoid removing old paint layers, which may have historical significance.

If a piece of timber is rotten, 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 inserted timber should also be treated with wood preservative. The junction between masonry sub-cill and timber cill should be sealed.

It is tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC u, especially if the installer offers an all-in-one installation that includes both removal and replacement within a single day. It is, however, vital that the installer of windows replacement has a thorough knowledge of the structure and history of traditional timber frames. This will allow them to make appropriate recommendations for energy efficiency improvements and other technical upgrades that will not harm the historical character of a building. The windows that are replaced must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacement windows are approved as a suitable option under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u windows that conform to the original building's style. This is particularly relevant when windows are in conservation areas or listed buildings.