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Maintaining window repairs cambridge -maintained window made of timber is an important element of the historic fabric of a structure. It is a representation of the materials and technologies as well as the craftsmanship and architectural style of the time from which it originates. When possible, repairs should be made 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 historical buildings were made to last for a long time. They do require maintenance to keep them looking good. Maintenance tasks include sash cord repairs as well as tightening the pulleys on sash, and painting. The need to upgrade timber windows in order to increase efficiency in energy use is also growing. This may mean replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window rebates, or installing new cills for better air sealing. One of the major issues with traditional windows is damage caused by the corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially true when sash windows are concerned, as the gaps between sashes can be extremely large. In these situations water may get through the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and the wood beneath. Weather conditions that are not ideal can accelerate the rotting. To prevent this from happening, windows must be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint. Areas that have been damaged must be repaired using resin-based products. This will ensure that the maximum amount of the original fabric is retained. It is also important to limit the number of holes that are drilled into the frame to allow cable entry since these could allow water in and cause decay. The wall's structural movement can also lead to distortions in the frame as well as sash. This could result in the sash not fitting properly, sticking or jamming in the opening and cracked glazing. Often this can be corrected by fitting new sash boxes made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill should be made from durable hardwood such as oak to avoid differential movement between the old and new work. There are several companies that make Boston pattern wooden sash to fit in with the majority of openings. The sash is available in a variety of sizes and finishes to fit the needs of modern homeowners. The new sash, combined with quadruple draft strips and a better thermal insulation, can make a huge difference to the energy-efficiency of a home. Aesthetics Many old wooden windows have an excellent aesthetic value because they typically demonstrate, in a way the materials and techniques and architectural taste of the period from when they were built. They could also have a significant historic value in their own right. This is especially true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed structures, which were simply a series of openings within the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions and vertical iron or wood bars to keep out intrusions. It is crucial to maintain the appearance of traditional wooden window joinery. It is vital that any decay that results from the penetration of moisture should be immediately stopped once it is discovered. This is best accomplished by a thorough painting process, especially in areas that have already suffered damage or degradation. It is recommended 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 in relation to preparation and the amount of coats needed at each stage. Wet rot is a common issue in old timber windows and the best method to stop it from developing is to remove any damaged or rotten parts immediately to prevent the spread of the fungus responsible for it. Replace rotting wood with slow-growing deal (pine) and, if possible, the same kind of timber that is being removed to prevent differential movement. In the late period of the 17th century and the middle of the medieval period, glass became less expensive and more abundant, so that the glazed openings in timber-framed structures gradually became more sophisticated, with tracery made of wood, moulded mullions and deep projecting cills. The glazing was increasingly placed within frames with rebates and secured by 'glazing sprigs' rather than being inserted into lead cames. This method of glazing is not only less prone to leaks but it can allow for more expansive, clearer sheets of glass to be used in windows than would have been 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 focus on detail. The large glass surfaces, the deep projecting cills, and the large glazing areas reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing windows can be upgraded to increase their energy efficiency. It is crucial to remember that these measures should be considered when it comes to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows. Therefore, keeping the existing windows from the past that are in need of repair rather than replacing them is logical, particularly when their thermal enhancements can be achieved cost-effectively through simple repairs and upgrades. Older windows typically have historical significance that shows a variety of technological advancement and changes in architectural style. The pressure to replace these windows are usually based on the assumption that old windows will need replacement in the near future, however the majority of them are capable of serving for 150, 200 and even 250 years if properly maintained. It is essential to realize that decay issues associated in traditional timber windows are avoidable with quick and thorough repairs. It is also essential to recognize damp issues and fix them quickly in order to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint is a particular problem, since it allows moisture penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this type of damage to go undetected until the paintwork starts to crack or turn wavier. However, it could cause structural damage and lead to further decay. A good quality paint will prevent this moisture penetration. To avoid condensation and mould it is crucial to keep the paintwork as clean as you can. Modern synthetic paints pose a problem since they are usually water-resistant, and can cause mildew to develop in the window frame. The majority of older windows were constructed from timber with a high proportion of sapwood. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration rapidly if exposed to wet weather, however they can be protected with a thorough preservative treatment before they are put to use. It is crucial to select the appropriate type of wood for the location and the climate, since these factors can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers create a range of sash made of timber that can be tailored to fit specific openings from the past. They can be constructed to the standard Boston pattern dimensions or to specific sizes that fit with the architectural style of historic buildings. Maintenance Regular inspection carefully redecorated, as well as quick repairs can prolong the life of timber windows. The primary reason for the decay is moisture intrusion through deteriorated paint and putty. This can be prevented by using a good wood preservative and painting the wood thoroughly. Repairs to old sash windows as well as casement window frames should be handled with care and minimal disruption. It is possible to repair many traditional timber window designs without removing the frame. This is a must whenever it is possible. Paint that is peeling or loose 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 important to avoid stripping old paint layers that could have historical value If these are present it is recommended that a study of the paint be carried out. Where a section of timber has become rotten the best option is to take out the rotten material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to match existing profiles. The wood that is being inserted should be treated with wood preservative and the joint between the timber cill and masonry sub-cill should be sealed. Replacement of traditional windows with PVC-u may be an appealing option, particularly when the installer provides a 'one stop shop' installation that takes care of removal and replacement within one day. It is, however, essential that the person installing replacement windows has a complete knowledge of the structure and history of traditional wooden frames. This will allow them to make appropriate suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technical upgrades that will not harm the character of a historic building. The window installers who provide replacement windows must be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are deemed to be approved under Building Regulations as a suitable option. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u Windows that are sympathetic to original building's character. This is especially true where windows are situated in listed buildings or conservation areas.