Many of our customers are interested to know more about the process that goes into producing their bespoke windows and doors. They care that the timber is ethically sourced. They like the fact that we hand craft the timber using traditional joinery skills. They value the fact that we take pride in our work.
This article aims to tell you a little more about the stages involved. From protecting wildlife in the forest to protecting your home, it is a fascinating journey.
Back to the Forest
The starting point for all of our made to measure windows and doors in an FSC or PEFC certified forest. These globally recognised sustainable forestry management schemes help to protect valuable ecosystems for the present and future.
To avoid the tree losses associated with deforestation, each tree removed is replaced by saplings. You can read more about this in our recent article ‘Sourcing Sustainable Forest Management Timbers’.
There are established partnerships between forestry managers and sawmills. The next step in the journey is for felled trees to be transported to the sawmill for processing.
The Sawmill
Hinson Custom Made purchases all timbers from UK sawmills. The job of the sawmill is to transform a rough log into smooth pieces of accurately measured wood. These can then be used to craft wood products including furniture, wooden windows and doors, timber staircases, garden sheds, fencing and more.
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The Sawmill Process
Debarking and Scanning the Logs
The Sawmill process begins with debarking the logs. They are then scanned by lasers. This profiling assesses how best to cut the log to achieve the maximum number of usable pieces.
Advanced scanning to optimise the cuts is a great way to minimises waste. Having said this, all offcuts are collected and chipped. They can then be used for fuel or as an effective natural garden mulch.
Cutting the Log Profiles
Following the laser scanning profile, the tree trunks are cut into sections known as cants. These are then cut again into smaller planks. Each piece of wood is then edged and trimmed to exact dimensions.
Air or Kiln Drying the Timber
Timber is prone to contracting and expanding depending on the moisture content. Nobody wants wooden windows and doors that crack, buckle or twist. For this reason, the next stage in the saw mill process is essential.
The planks of wood are graded and then air or kiln dried. Both processes greatly reduce moisture content. The removal of this excess water results in a slight shrinkage in the plank size.
Finishing the Timber
The final stage is to plane the timber, creating a smooth finish. It is in this format that we receive the timber supplies. The planks are ideal for creating our custom-made windows and hardwood front doors.
Our Joinery Workshop
When the timbers are delivered, we continue the process in our Milton Keynes joinery workshop. Combining modern machinery and traditional joinery skills, we craft timber planks into made-to-measure windows and doors.
Working to exact dimensions, we create the style, size and finish that suits the property and meets our clients’ requirements. This includes weighted sliding sash windows, wooden casement windows and non-standard window frame profiles. We also build front doors, internal doors and wooden-framed bi-folding doors.
Wooden Window Finishes and Installation
All our windows and doors come with our guarantee. They are built with adherence to UK Building Regulations covering security and energy efficiency. Hinson Custom Made is also a member of CERTASS, which simplifies the building certification process.
The final coating is determined by the customer. We can oil or varnish the timber for a natural wood finish that showcases the grain. Alternatively, we can paint the windows in any RAD match colour. Heritage colours work especially well on period properties, whilst some customers love something a little bolder.
When the hardware fixtures and fittings are added, the windows and doors are ready for installation. Our professional team ensures the perfect fit, helping to protect your home for many years to come.
Longevity and Timber Recycling
Wooden windows and doors can be sanded and recoated to keep them in keeping with modern tastes. With a little maintenance, they can last for decades. There are many examples of wooden doors dating back centuries.
At some point, the windows and doors may become redundant. They can however be recycled. The timber fibres can be broken down to be used for chipboard, garden mulch, corrugated cardboard and more.
Milton Keynes Window and Door Company
Hinson Custom Made produces windows and doors for new builds and heritage properties. Our bespoke solutions have been applied to country cottages, barn conversions and contemporary grand designs. If you would like further information or a quote, please contact us on 01908 516333 or info@hinsoncustommade.co.uk.
