The joys of modern joinery and minimal maintenance

Often thought of as something that needs constant maintenance, timber windows and doors are often overlooked when it comes to choosing new joinery.

But modern timber joinery has truly evolved, now allowing you to achieve the same classic effect of timeless designs while blending them with practical, low-maintenance benefits.

Having a beautiful home shouldn’t mean you need to trade your time for constant caretaking. Built with a foundation of modern craftsmanship, today’s timber joinery is created with easy care in mind.

Why timber joinery got a bad rap for maintenance (and why that’s outdated)

Originally, timber joinery was known for being prone to weathering and instability, as it lacked the properties which engineered timber has today. Previously, it was more vulnerable to rot, which meant that windows would swell, twist or warp more frequently, resulting in costly repairs or replacements, and regular upkeep to prevent this from happening.

These misconceptions are still a common belief today when people begin the process of a renovation on their windows and doors, overlooking timber joinery in favour of uPVC options. However, with breakthroughs in modern joinery design and updated manufacturing techniques, Accoya timber joinery can be a desirable choice that offers improved durability, longevity, more natural character and a timeless appeal compared to other materials.

Modern materials & finishes that create durable joinery

At Westbury Windows and Joinery, we use a micro-porous paint system, as it allows the wood to breathe. Opting for a micro-porous paint finish for timber joinery is beneficial as it prevents moisture damage, is flexible and durable, and acts as a protective barrier to the joinery; it is also a long-lasting option.

Micro-porous paint is a much better option than oil-based paint, as it requires far less maintenance — it simply needs to be washed down 3-4 times a year and can be touched up easily if needed, rather than having to fully sand down and recoat each time.

The timber we use is Accoya®, which is a dimensionally stable, modified timber that has gone through an acetylation process, improving its resistance to the elements. This means it has an improved resistance to water and rot, preventing the timber from warping. This is the best choice for durable timber joinery, as it means you can trust that it will last, and you won’t have to replace it until years down the line.

Years ago, timber windows were supplied unpainted and unglazed, and built using cheaper materials, which is why they did not last as long and therefore had lower guarantees. This gave timber joinery a bad reputation going forward and often put people off choosing them when building or renovating. However, the factory finished timber joinery that we supply is spray painted in three coats (which is the equivalent to 10 brush coats!) and outperforms on-site painted pieces.

All these innovations make for long-lasting, low-maintenance timber joinery that is easier to care for than ever before.

Smart design features that simplify maintenance

Small features that you can find in modern designs make a vast difference to the life expectancy of modern timber joinery. Drip beads are an innovative feature that add style to windows and doors, whilst also preventing water from being able to ingress. They can be found at the bottom of glazing on windows or doors. On a Westbury product, a small detail we have added is a deeper drip bead than standard, meaning water run-off is much quicker and more efficient. 

The addition of seals and concealed joints have thoroughly improved timber windows and doors stability and longevity, as they also help prevent water ingress, which would otherwise cause warping.

At Westbury Windows and Joinery, we have integrated a vented and drained glazing gasket system into our joinery, as this reduces stress on the windows and doors. This system allows for better ventilation and prevents water from travelling into the joints and timber, extending the life of your joinery.

The real joy: Living with long lasting timber joinery

Choosing timber joinery that you can trust will last, gives you a sense of relief that we all want when thinking about our home.

We take an approach that means you only need to give your timber windows and doors a visual check and clean every 3-4 months. This can give you peace of mind, as you get to appreciate timeless style and modern convenience for years to come. Not only do they add character to your home, but they can increase property value. Their aesthetics enhances curb appeal, making your home more desirable to future buyers.

With the right materials, designs and craftsmanship, you can get everything you are looking for in your timber windows and doors: great performance, longevity, and beauty.

If you are thinking of incorporating timber joinery into your home, request one of our brochures to explore our designs, or reach out to our expert Westbury Windows and Joinery sales team who will be happy to help.