Engineered timber windows aren't just for conservation areas or listed buildings — they add value and panache to houses of all ages and have long-term environmental benefits, too.
SoGlos speaks to Alex Lane, general manager at Timber Windows Cotswolds, to find out why homeowners should consider wood over other materials.
What are engineered timber windows?
Multi-layered or engineered timber is created through a very old technique of layering wood sections with the grain of one section in the opposing direction to the grain of its neighbour.
Wood has a natural tendency to expand and contract and, when wet, warp in the direction of the grain. Multi-layering evens out any movement in the wood from moisture. This means that there is no warping or twisting and the wood remains rigid.
This property of engineered or multi-layered timber is why it has been used to build wide span structures such as churches and bridges; and the use of it in very moist areas, for example, next to rivers, pools or any other water, is perfectly reliable due to its very predictable strength.
Multi-layered timber was introduced into windows and doors and ensures that the perfect fit with casement, or sash and frame, remains just as accurate as the day they are fitted. There is no warping or twisting to cause sticking or rubbing, which is the reason we use it throughout our range of doors and windows. Engineered timber is stronger, longer lasting and resistant to the issues that affect traditional wood.
What are the benefits of using a firm such as Timber Windows Cotswolds over a local joiner?
The local joiner will produce some beautiful windows and doors and be able to fit them for you, however, they rarely glaze windows, nor finish them with paint or wood stain.
This is a very important part of protecting the wood and goes towards guaranteeing the performance of the windows and doors.
Additionally, they will not have access to many of our design and manufacture processes that really do raise the quality of our products, surpassing those of rival companies.
We have a network of local showrooms that extend nationwide; allowing you to inspect the quality and range of designs local to you. They have comprehensive displays of many door and window designs, architectural hardware and accessories, all beautifully presented with the high standard of manufacture and finish clearly visible.
It is our one-stop service and superb attention to detail that puts us above the local joiner. With no other tradesmen required, we arrange and implement everything for you. Our service is a complete package that makes choosing and installing new windows and doors convenient and easy for you.
What type of wood is used in your products?
We have three types of wood available: redwood, meranti and oak. All three are excellent quality and are from sustainable sources.
These are available on all products and it purely comes down to choice. Redwood is a smoother wood and will naturally give a very smooth painted finish. While meranti and oak have a distinct grain which is visible after being painted.
How does Timber Windows Cotswolds address sustainability?
Sustainability is at the very heart of what we do. We offer certified European redwood for our windows and doors. Redwood is a strong, knot-free, stable timber with proven longevity in the United Kingdom.
European redwood is also the timber used by British joiners of yesteryear — most 100-year-old British joinery was originally made using this timber.
All of our redwood derives from sustainably managed plantations in northern Europe, which means that when trees are felled, new ones are always planted to replace those harvested. We are also able to offer options of meranti hardwood and European oak from sustainable sources.
European forest areas are expanding by around 5,000 sq km each year — these forests are also healthier for the environment, removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in their trunks.
Why is timber better for the environment over other materials used for windows and doors?
Timber is, of course, a natural material and when products reach the end of their life, they can be broken down, recycled and disposed of sustainably.
Engineered timber also has a lifespan of around 60 years, meaning less replacement costs for customers and a lower impact on the environment from manufacturing methods.
And when it comes to the glazing methods used, our range of timber windows and doors incorporates enhanced thermally insulating glass, which is far superior to a standard double-glazed window, as less heats leaks from the home.
This results in a 45 per cent saving in energy costs, helping to reduce both a homeowner’s energy bills and contribute to reducing the UK’s energy consumption.
Do timber windows require lots of maintenance?
In short, no. The microporous paint should require repainting after a minimum of eight years and the wood stain in around five years, subject to suitable care and conditions.
A very minimal preparation is then required — a simple clean followed by a coat of paint. The redecoration should take between 15 and 30 minutes per window. Many of our local installers offer a maintenance package that ensures that your windows are kept their best, hassle free.
What guarantees do you offer on timber windows?
Wooden windows have been used in Britain for centuries, many of which are still in great condition and full working order. There is little doubt that real wood, when taken care of, can offer a long-lasting life.
With minimal maintenance, our wooden windows and doors come with the following guarantees: 30 years on insect and fungal infection; 10 years on sealed units; 10 years on hardware; 10 years on workmanship; 12 years on paint finishes; and up to six years on stain finishes. And in addition to all of these, most showrooms will offer a 10-year warranty on workmanship.
