Wood- Natures Stroke of Genius

Illegal Timber Trade

In July 2010 the EU votes to ban illegal timber after 10 years of campaigning from GreenPeace and other activist groups.

Exposing illegal timber used in the construction of the new Home Office building in 2003 © Greenpeace/Cobbing

All companies operating within the EU will be required to establish a traceability system for wood products, and offenders could be fined. If properly enforced, hopefully it will be the catalyst for systemic changes in an industry where illegal logging is all too common. It will also strengthen the EU's Forest Law, Governance and Trade programme (FLEGT), a series of agreements between the EU and forest countries to try and stem the flow of illegal timber into Europe.

To read more about what Green Peace have done for the Timber Trade click to visit their website.

Why Choose Timber?

Over the past few decades the priorities and expectations of performance of all windows types has changed dramatically. The need for the windows now not only to look ascetically pleasing but to be draught and noise proof, better at keeping heat in the house. As we drive into a more environmentally friendly world we see the desire for the windows to be as such as well, not only from the source we get the materials from but also how the windows are manufactured and destroyed. Another major factor consumers often think about is security, and that is a question Timber Windows gets asked quite a lot. With our varied range of locks and bolting systems we will be sure to keep your peace of mind at heart. We here at Timber Windows are constantly on the top of our game when it comes to the sourcing and manufacturing our windows, to find out more about what we do; pop into our showroom or give us a call 01284760222.

Timber windows and Green Peace
Wood is a naturally renewable material and uses less energy in processing and manufacture than the alternatives. For instance a PVC-u window requires eight times more energy to manufacture than a hardwood window of the same size. Greenpeace, who have spent six years researching the environmental impact of manufacture and disposal of PVC-u and timber in windows are categorical in their argument:

• “The production and disposal of PVC-u windows leads to the release of highly poisonous chemicals which threaten the environment and human health. PVC-u production involves no less than six of the fifteen most hazardous chemicals listed by European governments for priority elimination.
• Timber is a sustainable resource. As long as the timber is sourced from properly managed forests and care is taken in the choice of preservatives, paints and stains, timber windows are by far the best environmental choice.
• Developments in timber window design and finishing mean that modern, high performance timber windows need minimal maintenance and potentially have significantly longer life than PVC-u.
• PVC-u windows do degrade, they are not maintenance free and worst of all they cannot be repaired when necessary.
• High performance double-glazed timber windows need not cost more than PVC-u equivalents.”

From Greenpeace leaflet "Look out – Your choice of window frames could seriously affect the health of our planet".
In their June 1998 report, the National Housing Federation found that:

• “softwood windows were considerably cheaper (than PVC-u) in terms of initial capital costs and life cycle costs over a period of 30 years”.

To see more for what Green Peace have done for the Timber Trade Click Here

Keeping out the draughts

Besides the good insulation properties inherent in wood windows, high performance weather resistance can be achieved by the use of efficient draught seals on all opening lights. These ensure that the window remains draught free even in the most severe exposure conditions. The greater stiffness of the timber frames means that these seals are equally compressed for the whole perimeter of the window, ensuring a tight fit at all points. With the correct choice of section, insulated double glazed units of any thickness can be accommodated - not always possible in metal or PVC-u window frames. The combination of insulated glass panels, efficient weather seals, and wooden frames also ensures good acoustic performance.

Beaded wood windows with sections robust enough to take substantial locks, catches and bolts can ensure a high degree of security against break-in - and increasingly important aspect of modern window design. Wooden casements are inherently stiffer than PVC-u, making it far more difficult for intruders to ‘spring’ them out of the frame.

Looking good for longer

 

Wood windows are now available in a wide variety of styles and finishes to suit all types of building, both modern and traditional. However, it is also possible for special profiles to be designed in wood. This has the advantage that timber profiles can always be manufactured in the future to match existing windows or styles, either for replacement or extension of the original building. This is often not economically feasible with metal or plastic frames, if the basic sections or extrusions are no longer available.

Maintenance Timber Windows will ensure by the end of your installation you will know how to correctly maintain your new windows/doors.
If you are a current customer or a previous one please contact us if you need or have lost this information. We would be more then happy to send you out another copy.

 Stains require more frequent maintenance than paints
but then this also depends on how you want your property to look, old and weathered doesn't need to be oiled as much whereas we here at Timber Windows recommend to keep them looking like new you oil them every 4-6 months. Timber Windows now factory finish your windows/doors and this
has the advantage that all surfaces are protected. We also have a range of grantees which you will receive when your installation is complete and you are paid up to date which includes lengthy grantees on paint work.

 The future for wood windows is a bright one. Timber is accepted as the only mainstream construction material that can be produced on a sustainable basis. It is tough, durable and with the increased use of improved factory-applied finishes, relatively maintenance free.

Click Here for more information on TRADA (Timber Research And Development Association)

Why be Energy Efficient?

This post contains information on how changing your windows can help you save money and lower you energy consumption. For more information about what you can do to be energy efficient see http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk.

And to find out more about Timber Windows and energy efficiency pop down to your local showroom or call us on 01284760222. 

The benefits of energy-efficient windows

 •Smaller energy bills: replacing all single-glazed windows with B-rated double glazing could save you around £165 per year on your energy bills.
•A smaller carbon footprint: by using less fuel, you’ll generate less of the carbon dioxide that leads to global warming - typically, 680kg a year.
•A more comfortable home: energy-efficient glazing reduces heat loss through windows and means fewer draughts and cold spots.
 •Peace and quiet: as well as keeping the heat in, energy efficient-windows insulate your home against outside noise.
•Reduced condensation: energy-efficient glazing reduces condensation build-up on the inside of windows. The costs and savings for energy-efficient glazing will be different for each home and each window, depending on the size, material and installer. Double glazing should last for 20 years or more


Use THIS handy calculator to see how much money you could be saving by replacing your windows. We here at Timber Windows can also answer any queries you may have please don't hesitate to contact us with your double glazing and energy efficiency questions.


How energy-efficient glazing works


Double-glazed windows have two sheets of glass with a gap between them, usually about 16mm, to create an insulating barrier that keeps heat in. This is sometimes filled with gas. Triple-glazed windows have three sheets of glass, but aren’t always better than double-glazed windows: to choose the most energy-efficient window look for the BFRC rating and Energy Saving Trust Recommended logo.
Energy-efficient windows come in a range of frame materials and styles. They also vary, depending on:

• how well they stop heat from passing through the window
• how much sunlight travels through the glass
• how little air can leak in or out around the window.

What to look for

• Glass: The most energy-efficient glass for double glazing is low emissivity (Low-E) glass. This often has an unnoticeable coating of metal oxide, normally on one of the internal panes next to the gap. This lets in light and heat but cuts the amount of heat that can get out.
• In between: Very efficient windows might use gases such as argon, xenon or krypton in the gap between the sheets of glass.
• Pane spacers: These are set around the inside edges to keep the two panes of glass apart. For maximum efficiency, look for pane spacers containing little or no metal – often known as ‘warm edge’ spacers.

 

Energy rating

Some window manufacturers show the energy efficiency of their products using an energy rating scheme from A to G - like the one used for appliances such as fridges. The whole window (the frame and the glass) is assessed on its efficiency at retaining heat. The scheme is run by the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC). Find more information on the BFRC website.

Windows in period properties

If you live in a conservation area or a listed building there may be restrictions on what you can do to your windows. There are a number of non-intrusive window insulation options available for historic homes such as heavy lined curtains, shutters, secondary glazing and sealed blinds. However, each historic building is considered individually so check with your local council to see what options are available to you.

Conservation areas

These areas are of special architectural or historic interest, meaning that any work you carry out on your home must preserve or enhance the character of the area. This does not necessarily mean you cannot replace your windows, but might mean you will need to get windows that complement the character of the building and area. Double glazing can be made to look like your building’s original windows, but for any changes you do need to contact your local council’s conservation officer for guidance.

Listed buildings

Listed buildings have tight controls on what you can change on the outside and sometimes the inside as well depending on their grading. Old sash windows in historic properties can be protected not only for their appearance but also the materials and methods used to make them. But secondary glazing can be a non-intrusive way of insulated historic windows from the inside, and may be granted permission.
There are other ways to make historic buildings more energy efficient but you will need to consult and apply for permission from your local planning authority.
See the English Heritage website for ways to make a historic home more energy efficient.

Sash windows

Sash window units are common features of period properties and can be a design feature. They consist of two vertically sliding frames, but are often badly fitting and made of single pane glass so have poor insulating qualities.
If you want to insulate your sash windows there are a number of alternatives to conventional double glazing. If you want to keep the design and look of the sash windows, there are units available that are in keeping with the original design; these are fitted and sealed to prevent draughts and incorporate double glazing to reduce heat loss. The frames don’t need to be plastic, but can be metal or wood with an insulated core.
An increasing number of double glazing companies offer double glazing in period properties. Replacing sash windows can be expensive, though, so good-quality secondary glazing may be worth considering.

Classic and Vintage Car Event 09/09/2012

What a fantastic day! The sun was shining the smell of beautifully cooked food was in the air and the drinks where flowing. If you weren't there you missed out on a great family day out. Timber windows where situated in the marquee next to the vintage coffee house and other stalls with some unique and beautifully crafted pieces.
All money raised from the event went to st Nicholas Hospice, with over 300 cars in the event and more then 4,000 people turning up the money raised was an outstanding £21,948.00.
Billy Wyman and local mp David Ruffley where also in attendance to this special day.
I for one cannot wait until next years show for which registration forms will be available in February 2013 for more information about this and next years show visit http://www.classicsportscarsbythelake.co.uk/

Here are some of our pictures.

Samuel Heath External Door Fittings

Samuel Heath have a wide selection of external door fittings, from door knockers to letter boxes that will complement any property inside and out. To discuss the needs of your property please pop into our showroom. Or visit our website www.timberwindows.com to request a brochure.

Changing Windows in a Conservation Area...

The definition of a conservation area is an area of special architectural or historic interest, the character or the appearance of which its desirable to preserve or enhance.

Conservation areas usually have a high volume of historic buildings many of which are listed.

To find out more information about conservation areas and to find out if your property is in a conservation area CLICK HERE to be taken to the English heritage site.

Conservation area consent is required for the total or substantial demolition of any building within a conservation area. This consent comes from your local authority or government. To find out more information about this area consent please CLICK HERE.

We have worked on a vast majority of homes in conservation areas and we will help you every step if the way and guide you through requesting planning permission and knowing your legal rights. We have many happy customers that have had installations done in these conservation areas. Please do not hesitate to pop into our showroom to see how we can help.

CLICK HERE for an article from the Guardian newspaper explaining some of the ins and outs of replacing sash windows in a conservation area.