Care of exterior joinery
Timber windows and doors produced by A R Manley & Son Ltd are accurate components designed and
manufactured using the best available techniques to produce performance rated components. The way
they are handled and stored on site can affect their long-term performance. Good practice avoids damage,
maintains quality and saves money.
Windows are available as joinery items supplied; with a primer or stain base coat for site glazing and
finishing; as factory glazed components requiring site finishing or as factory glazed and fully finished
windows. Each type needs careful handling and protection although the actual requirements vary slightly.
Internal and external doors and door sets may be supplied 'in the white', with a primer or stain base coat
applied or as fully finished components. Each type needs careful handling and protection although the
actual requirements vary slightly.
Windows: Delivery and storage
Check windows at the time of delivery
Windows should be checked at the time of delivery to ensure that they are in accordance with the order
schedule, the delivery is complete and that each window, including any protective packaging, is not
damaged.
Timber used in the manufacturer of windows will be graded in accordance with BS EN 942:1996 Timber in
joinery - “General classification of timber quality†and the workmanship will meet the requirements of BS
1186 Part 2:1998 “Timber for and workmanship in joinery†- Specification for workmanship.
BS 644: Timber Windows recommends that the moisture content of timber windows should be between
13% and 19% although fully factory finished windows may be of lower moisture content.
For long term performance of the window and finish, it is important that this moisture content is
maintained during storage on site and during the construction process. Windows should not be kept on
site unfixed for longer than necessary.
The storage place should be prepared in advance and the windows unloaded straight into it.
Handle windows carefully
Windows should be lifted by the main frame (not by the opening casements or the glazing bars) and
carried in a vertical position to avoid any tendency to distort. When windows are protected by shrink
wrapping, or other protective packaging, this should be kept in place as long as possible.
Windows should be stored under cover
This is the case, even Buitenschrijnwerk if fully finished, preferably inside a building. If they have to be stored outside they
must be kept clear of the ground on level bearers and protected from dampness and sunlight with a
tarpaulin. Polythene sheeting should not be used as this can act like a greenhouse and encourage damp or
humid conditions.
There must be space for air circulation around and between the windows.
When stored inside a building, windows should be protected from dirt and damage but without restricting
air circulation.
Protect Windows During Site Operations
Ensure that the moisture content of the timber is kept close to the level at which it was when the window
was manufactured.
Whenever possible store windows in the sequence they will be needed with codes or identifying marks
visible to avoid double handling. Avoid dragging them across each other if stacked.
Windows which have projecting sills or have the hardware fitted must, if stacked, have spacers between
them to avoid damage.
Preglazed windows need a little extra care, to avoid damage and glass breakage. Make sure it is not
possible for water to lay in glazed rebates by storing vertically.
Preglazed and prefinished windows should ideally be fitted into preformed openings and not ‘built in’ to
masonry walls.
Jet-washing is a common way to damage joinery, glass units and weather seals. we advise not to adopt this
methodology for cleaning.