Regular maintenance is the way to stave off the need for more expensive repair or replacement and consists of periodic inspection to identify any problems, and re-painting, normally carried out on a 5 to 8 year cycle, which protects windows from decay. Poorly fitting windows can be adjusted and their mechanical operation can be overhauled as necessary. Regular opening is always a good thing to prevent hinges seizing and to reduce the amount of condensation which can disrupt paint finishes and cause windows to deteriorate from the inside.

Draughts can normally be stopped by careful adjustment, using the correct fittings and, if necessary, by draught stripping. There are several companies which specialise in the draught proofing and overhaul of traditional windows. These can be found in our Suppliers Directory.

The benefits of regular maintenance of timber windows are:

• It prolongs their life
• It avoids decay and poor functioning
• and it is cost effective and more environmentally friendly than replacement

Simple repair techniques and measures to increase energy efficiency and security are all that is required to prolong the life of most timber windows. A widely held misconception is that window repairs are short lived and not as good as replacement windows. Poorly executed repairs will inevitably fail quickly but well executed repairs by an experienced joiner using the right materials should last a lifetime.

Repair or replace?
Inevitably, every window will one day reach the point in its life when it is beyond repair. However, historic windows are lost on a daily basis on the advice of salesmen, or joiners, whose only interest is to sell new windows. If replacement is the only option then take care to replace the window on a like-for like basis replicating the original materials, style and moldings as precisely as possible.

Quality workmanship and careful specification of materials and design is critically important. Remember, listed building consent is always required for any alteration to a window which affects the character of the listed building. Most authorities will need to be convinced that repair of significant windows is impractical before agreeing to replacement windows.

LPOC EXPERT TIP – Reinstating Original Windows
On occasions replacing windows may provide an opportunity to positively improve on the design of some inappropriate 20th century replacement windows. If so, it is worth researching the original pattern by looking carefully at period examples and old photographs or by replicating original windows that have survived intact.

A note on double glazing
Double glazed units, even the new generation slim double glazed units, bring with them a whole raft of problems, aesthetic considerations and costs which need to be borne in mind. Double glazing can be made to work well in carefully designed new windows but they involve compromises when fitted to traditional windows.

The glazing rebates are normally too small, the glass is too heavy for the sash weights and any historic glass has to be lost. Our Suppliers Directory contains details of companies who are experienced in Double and Secondary Glazing options for listed buildings.

Contact LPOC to receive a PDF version of the Care and Repair of Timber Windows article from Listed Heritage magazine issue 113. Email info@lpoc.co.uk.

Visit The Suppliers Directory to access specialist companies who you can approach with confidence, including window restorers and suppliers. Members of LPOC can also speak to Peter Bell, our in-house Conservation Advisor, or a member of our friendly team for impartial advice by calling 01795 844939. To find out more about membership please click here.