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Maintaining double glazing seal repairs -maintained wooden window is an important component of a historical building. It demonstrates in various degrees 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 severe areas of decay is possible using proprietary resin-based systems. Durability The windows made of wood in many old buildings were built to last for centuries. But, they have to be maintained to keep them looking good and functioning correctly. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cords and retightening sash pulleys and painting. The demand for enhancing timber windows in order to increase efficiency and energy efficiency is also increasing. This may include replacing old glazing units, fixing existing window rebates or installing new cills to improve air seal. One of the main issues with traditional windows is the damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially important when sash windows are concerned, as the gaps between sashes can often be quite large. In these instances water may get through the paint film and cause rotting of the putty and underlying wood. The rotting can be exacerbated due to weather conditions that are poor. To stop this from happening, windows must be regularly painted with an exterior wood paint. The areas that are damaged should also be repaired using a resin-based product. This will ensure that the maximum possible amount of the original fabric is retained. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes that are made in the frame to allow cable access, because they could let in moisture and cause decay. The wall's structural movement can cause distortions in the frame as well as sash. This could result in the sash not fitting properly or sticking or jamming into the opening, and damaged glazing. Most often, this is corrected by fitting new sash boxes that have been made from slow grown deal (pine) or oak. The cill must be constructed from durable hardwood such as oak to avoid differential movement between the new and existing work. To alleviate this issue to reduce the risk of this happening, there are several companies that manufacture Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit most existing openings. They are available in a range of sizes and finishes to meet the needs of the modern homeowner. The new sash, coupled with quadruple draft strips and a more efficient thermal insulation, could make a significant difference to the efficiency of a home's energy use. Aesthetics Many old timber windows have a great aesthetic value as they often demonstrate, in a way, the materials and technology and architectural taste of the period from which they originate. They may have significant historical significance on their own. This is particularly true of early unglazed window openings in timber framed buildings which were simply a series of openings within the frame that were subdivided horizontally into mullions and wood or iron bars to keep out intruders. Traditional timber window joinery can be a highly decorative aspect of a building, and it is important to keep it looking good. As soon as you notice any decay caused by moisture penetration it is crucial to stop it. It is best to do this with thorough painting, especially if there has been damage or deterioration. It is advisable to use paints that are specifically designed to be used as part of the system (primer undercoat, finish) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines in relation to preparation and number of coats required at each stage. Wet rot is a typical problem for older timber windows. The best way to stop it growing is to eliminate any damaged or rotten sections as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the fungus responsible for it. The replacement of wood that is rotting should be carefully undertaken by using a slow-growing deal (pine) and, wherever feasible, the same species as that which is being removed in order to prevent shifting between the new and old timbers. In the late period of the 17th century and the middle of the medieval period, glass became cheaper and more abundant, so that the glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became sophisticated, with tracery made of wood as well as moulded mullions and projection cills. In recent times, glass was fixed into frames that were rebated using glazing sprigs instead of lead cames. This method of glazing not only makes windows less likely to leak and also allows more clear glass sheets to be employed than would be possible without the use of leaded lights. Energy efficiency Traditional timber windows provide excellent energy efficiency due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very careful attention to detailing. They also have large glass areas as well as deep projecting cills that minimise air infiltration. The windows can be modified to increase their energy efficiency with draught-proofing and secondary glazing. It is important to remember that these measures must be considered when it comes to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows. It is sensible to repair or upgrade existing windows that are older rather than replacing them, particularly when improvements in thermal efficiency can be made through simple repairs. Historic windows often have a historical value that shows a variety of technological advances and changes in architectural tastes. Most people assume that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, most can still provide service for 150, 200, or even 250 years if they are maintained with proper maintenance. It is important to recognise that the decay issues associated with traditional timber windows can be avoided by thorough maintenance and swift repairs. In addition it is crucial to identify damp penetration problems and address them swiftly to avoid major damage. Early paint deterioration is a major issue, as it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this damage to go unnoticed until paintwork begins to crack or becomes wavier. However, it can cause structural damage and then further decay. A high-quality paint will prevent this moisture from entering. It is also essential to keep the paintwork in good condition in order to prevent condensation and mould growth. Modern synthetic paints can pose a problem since they are typically formulated to be water-resistant, and this can lead to the formation of mildew in the window frame. The majority of windows from the past were constructed from timber with an extensive proportion of sapwood. The timbers will deteriorate quickly when exposed to moist weather, but can be protected by a thorough preservative treatment before they are put to use. It is also essential to ensure that the kind of wood used is suitable to the location and climate conditions, as these elements can affect the longevity of the joinery. Local window manufacturers create a variety of timber sash that can be adapted to fit specific openings in historic buildings. They are available in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historic buildings. Maintenance The life span of windows made from timber can be extended considerably through regular inspections carefully redecoration, and prompt repair. The main reason for the decay is moisture intrusion through deteriorated putty and paint. This can be prevented by using a good wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood. Repairs to old sash windows and frameless casement windows should be done with care and with the least amount of disruption. It is possible to repair the majority of traditional wooden 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 lightly sanded to improve the key of the surface and facilitate a better adhesion of the new coating. It is important to not remove old paint layers, as they may have historical significance. If a piece of wood is decayed, the best solution is to remove it and replace it with timber inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The timber that is inserted should be treated with a wood preservative, and the joint between masonry sub-cills and timber cill 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 handles removal and replacement within one day. However, it is vital that the installer of replacement windows has a full understanding of the construction and history of traditional wooden frames. This will allow them to make the appropriate suggestions for energy efficiency improvements and other technological improvements that don't alter the appearance of a building that is historic. Those who provide replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme such as FENSA. This will ensure that the replacements are approved as a suitable solution under Building Regulations. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u windows that are suited to the original building's style. This is especially true when windows are situated in listed buildings and conservation areas.