DOORS, WINDOWS & FITTINGS
RESTORING FAITH IN TIMBER WINDOWS
As a result of poor practices in the 1970s and 1980s, people lost faith in timber fenestration. Along came uPVC and aluminium – the“ maintenance-free solution” to forever windows!
Despite huge advances in timber window technology ensuring they last 60 years or more and the obvious environmental benefits many people, including architects still find themselves doubting Thomases!
But, benefits of modern paints and stains alongside good design can have a seismic impact on the longevity of timber windows and doors.
WHAT DOES DA VINCI’ S“ LAST SUPPER” HAVE TO DO WITH TIMBER WINDOWS TODAY?
Da Vinci was the master of experimentation who tried a new technique to paint the moment that Christ told his Apostles that one of them would betray him. The scene would typically have been painted on wet plaster, but this fresco technique was fast-drying and would have required him to work quickly. Da Vinci wanted to work slowly so he applied his pigments to a dry plaster wall. The result was a painting that didn’ t adhere to its surface due to the technique and Milan’ s humidity. The Last Supper was destined not to last without intervention.
WHAT CAN WE LEARN FROM THIS?
A lot when it comes to our own use of paints and coatings for timber fenestration. From surface preparation, to allowing for location and humidity, paint is only as good as its substrate.
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