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Maintaining Timber Windows A well-maintained and maintained timber window is an important element of the historical fabric of a building. It demonstrates in various degrees the various materials and techniques as well as the craftsmanship and architectural style of the time from which it originates. If possible, repairs should be done in-situ. Repairing the most deteriorated areas of decay can be done by using specialized resin-based systems. Durability The windows made of timber in many old buildings were built to last for a long time. However, they do need to be maintained to keep them looking good and functioning correctly. The most frequently-asked maintenance tasks include sash-cord repairs, re-tightening sash pulleys, and painting. There is a growing need to upgrade the timber windows to increase the efficiency of energy. This can include replacing old glazing units, fixing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills to increase the air seal. The deterioration of paintwork is a major problem with traditional windows. This is especially important where windows with sash are involved since the gaps between the sashes can be very large. In these situations, water can penetrate paint film and cause rotting to the wood or putty beneath. Poor weather conditions can exacerbate the decay. To prevent this, windows should be painted regularly using an exterior wood paint that is suitable. Corroded areas should be repaired with a resin-based product. This will ensure that the greatest amount of original fabric preserved. It is also essential to limit the number of holes drilled into the frame for cable entry, as they could let in water and cause decay. Another significant problem with older windows is the structural movement within the wall that could cause deformation of the frame and sash. This can lead to the sash fitting incorrectly, jamming or sticking in the opening, and even broken glass. This can often be fixed by fitting new sash boxes made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be constructed of a durable 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 that fit in with the majority of openings. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes to meet the requirements of modern-day homeowners. In conjunction with quadruple draught strip and better thermal insulation these new sash options can make a substantial difference to the energy efficiency of a house. Aesthetics A lot of old timber frames have a high aesthetic appeal, as they show, in some form, the materials technology, the construction process, and the architectural taste from the time period they were built. They may also have significant historical significance on their own. This is especially true of early windows that were not glazed in timber framed buildings where the great majority were just a collection of openings within the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions and iron or wood bars to keep out intrusions. Traditional window joinery made of timber is a beautiful feature of a building and is crucial to keep it looking good. It is essential that any decay that results from water penetration is immediately stopped once it is recognised. It is recommended to do this with thorough painting, especially where there is damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints specifically designed to be used part of a system (primer as well as undercoat, finish and primer) and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding preparation and number of coats required at each stage. The fungus that causes wet rot can quickly spread in old windows made of timber. To prevent this, remove any rotten or damaged parts as quickly as you can. The replacement of rotting wood must be done with care by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, wherever feasible using the same species as that which is being removed to prevent shifting between the new and old timbers. Glass became cheaper and more abundant in the late medieval period and into the 17th century. As a result, the glazed openings in timber-framed homes became more complex with moulded mullions, wooden tracery and deep cills projecting into the air. Increasingly, timber casement windows cost cambridge glazing was laid within rebated frames and secured with 'glazing sprigs' rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaking but also allows for much wider, clearer sheets of glass to be used in windows than would otherwise be possible without the need for lead lights. Energy efficiency The traditional timber windows are energy efficient because of their thickness and multilayer construction as well as attention to the smallest of details. 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. However it is crucial to keep in mind that these measures should be viewed in relation to the overall integrity and appearance of the original window. It is logical to repair or upgrade existing windows, rather than replacing them, particularly when improvement in energy efficiency can be made through simple repairs. Historic windows are often of historical value, as they show a range in technological advancement and changes in architectural taste. The pressures to replace these windows are usually based on the assumption that windows that are old will need to be replaced in the near future, however the majority of them are in a position to last for 150, 200 or even 250 years, if properly maintained. It is crucial to understand that decay problems with traditional timber windows are preventable by quick and thorough repairs. Additionally, it is essential to recognize damp penetration issues and fix them promptly to avoid major 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 is cracking or wavy but it can cause severe structural damage and can lead to further decay. A quality paint will stop moisture from entering the paint. It is also important to keep the paintwork in good condition to avoid condensation and the growth of mould. Modern synthetic paints pose a challenge 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. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to wet weather, however they can be protected with a thorough treatment of preservative before they are put to use. It is crucial to select the right type of wood for your location and the climate, since these factors can affect the durability of the joinery. Local window manufacturers produce a variety of timber sash that can be tailored to fit specific historic openings. They can be made in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to suit historic buildings. Maintenance Regular inspections as well as careful redecoration and timely repairs can prolong the life of timber windows. The primary cause of wood decay is moisture penetration through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a high-quality wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood. Repairs to sash windows that are old and frameless casement windows should be done with care and with minimal disruption. It is possible to repair many traditional timber window designs without removing the frame. This is a must whenever it is possible. Remove loose or peeling paint and lightly sand the area to improve the 'key” of the surface. This will allow the new coating to stick better. Be careful to avoid stripping old paint layers that could have historical value, and where these are present, it is recommended that a study of the paint be carried out. When a section of wood is decayed the best way to deal with it is to take it off and replace it with timber inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The inserted wood should also be treated with a wood preserver and the connection between the timber cill and the sub-cill of the masonry should be sealed. It can be tempting to replace traditional windows with PVC U, particularly if the installer offers an 'all-in-one' installation which includes both removal and replacement within a single day. It is essential that installers of replacement windows have a deep understanding of the history and design of traditional timber frames. This will enable them to make the right suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technical upgrades that will not harm the historical character of a building. Those who provide replacement windows must be registered under a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are deemed acceptable by the Building Regulations as a suitable alternative. A skilled carpenter can install PVC-u windows that are suited to the original building's style. This is particularly true where windows are installed in listed buildings and conservation areas.