The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings

SPAB
37 Spital Square
LONDON
E1 6DY

T: 020 7377 1644
F: 020 7247 5296
E: info@spab.org.uk

Charity No. 111 3753

Scottish Charity No. SC 039244

Company No.  5743962

VAT No. 577 4276 02

 

 

A. Old windows can contribute immeasurably to the special interest of a building. The timber used historically is superior to that widely available today. Compared to manufacture with modern substitute materials, use of timber is also more environmentally-friendly and facilitates easier repair. Substitutes are rarely as low-maintenance as often supposed – testified, for instance, by the marketing of purpose-made paint for uPVC windows discoloured by sunlight. Additionally, lower long-term costs favour the retention of old timber windows.

 

A. Usually not. Existing timber windows can often be repaired and, if necessary, upgraded for draught-proofing or better security. Some examples of basic repairs are outlined below; upgrading methods will be the subject of a future article. During any work, be careful to protect old glass and ironmongery against damage or loss. 

Replacement is the last resort, and should be like-for-like in terms of style and materials. The SPAB may be able to advise on joiners.

 

A. Commonly, only a small area is affected, such as the bottom of the window where there is wet rot. A skilled carpenter will in many cases be able to let in well-seasoned matching new timber. For example, a decayed end to a bottom rail might be renewed, complete with tenon, and the joint pegged, re-wedged and glued. A rotten outer section to a cill may be cut back in situ and replaced with new timber held by glue and non-ferrous screws. New timber of low natural durability should be double vacuum treated. 

Minor areas of decay can simply be built up with two-pack filler. It is important, of course, to eliminate gutter leaks or other causes of damp.

 

A. Joints can open due to the breakdown of glue and loose wedges. After removing the wedges, and perhaps some of the glass, it should be possible to apply new glue and re-wedge joints. Glue can be worked down the base of tenons with a hacksaw blade or piece of card.

 

A. Where excess paint or wrongly painted parts is causing sticking, an inorganic solvent stripper can help. Where binding results from a distorted frame, carefully planing and sanding should prevent jamming. Severe distortion, may indicate structural problems (wall movement or failed lintel). Where sliding sashes stick, this may indicate the need for general overhaul. Easing should be avoided in damp weather or recently uninhabited buildings, as opening lights will free themselves when environmental conditions change.

 

A. This is no reason for replacement. Sash windows can be overhauled, and there are good companies that specialise in this work. Overhaul may entail replacing sash cords, patch repairing worn stiles, re-fixing or renewing staff and parting beads, or adjusting weights and easing pulleys.

 

A. Windows post-dating the 18^th century are usually of softwood and require regular redecoration for protection. After removal of loose or defective paint, exposed surfaces are rubbed down (using wet abrasion to minimise hazardous dust). Paint selection will depend upon such factors as the historical importance of the building and surviving finishes. Legislation allows the use of lead-based paint, with permission, on Grade I and II* buildings.

 

A. Existing material should be matched. Lime mortar would normally be anticipated, frequently with an early mastic on top for water-resistance. Such mastic typically comprises a fillet of sand and boiled linseed oil. Crevices beneath the lime mortar were filled with rolled, wetted newspaper. Modern equivalents such as polysulphide sealant are unsuitable. They reduce vapour permeability.