How to Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows are a beautiful feature that can really make a home stand out. They can deteriorate over time, especially if they are exposed to harsh weather conditions.

Repairs are much more cost-effective than replacing window frames. This will help you save money and the home will keep its original look.

repairing windows rotten wood

Wooden window frames are exposed to the elements all year round and are frequently one of the first parts of a home to be affected by damp and damage. Fortunately, rotten wood is often repaired and dealt with quickly. The key is to spot the issue and act before it gets worse, or worse damage may be caused.

Initially, it's essential to assess the extent of the rot and decide whether or not it's repairable. A thorough inspection of the exterior is usually a good place to begin, examining for damaged roof tiles or slates, blocked guttering, and defective damp proof course (DPC). Also, you should check the interior of the property including the cellars and basements and also the joists' ends on a non-cavity walls.

After you've identified the part that has been affected by rot, it's crucial to remove as much of the rotten timber as you can. This will reduce the extent of damage and allow you to finish the rest of the repair work. The next step is to make use of a clawed hammer, or pry bar to remove as much rotted wood as is. This can be quite difficult however, by putting the clawed end of the pry bar into the corner and pushing it against the healthy board, you should be able to generate enough force to rip the old timber free.

Ensure that you leave a clear gap between the timbers when removing the rotten wood. This will prevent moisture from getting into the gap and cause further damage to the timbers around it. To minimize the risk of further damage and leaks It is recommended to remove any nails or debris from the affected area.

The epoxy or wood filler can be used to fix the remaining boards after removing the decayed wood. This is an easy and affordable method of repair of wood rot on windows made of timber, and can be easily sanded, then painted to match the existing frame.

If the extent of the rot is severe However, it could be more cost-effective to replace the entire window frame with a new one especially if you're seeking an ongoing solution that will stop further water penetration. It is also possible to contact a professional wood window repair double glazed windows service to find out what options are available to you.

Splicing or scarfing in

Timber windows are a traditional option for older buildings and listed houses, but they can also be used to enhance new properties. They are more expensive than uPVC however they offer long-term benefits and add value to your home.

They can be manufactured in any size and are extremely durable. They are also very easy to retrofit with insulated glass units (IGUs) and they offer excellent thermal performance. They do require regular maintenance, especially painting.

Hardwoods and softwoods are the two main categories of wood. Hardwoods are broad-leafed deciduous trees with complex cellular structures. This provides them with excellent stability in terms of size. Softwoods are derived from coniferous trees or needle-leaf trees and their cellular structure is simpler.

Traditional timber frame structural joints were made by mortices and Tenons, also known as comb joints. These joints are pinched or nailed into position and are not bonded using adhesive. Over time, water easily flows through the sections of timber, which can cause staining or rot. Poor workmanship could be a contributing factor. For example, fixings that are exposed or punched incorrectly can cause moisture to penetrate the frame. If this is allowed to happen it could result in water deposits and rust staining on window boards.

It is not recommended to replace existing timber sash windows with uPVC particularly in listed or historic buildings. This compromises the integrity of the structure. Furthermore, uPVC windows have a shorter lifespan and eventually end up in landfill.

Modern timbers, like Accoya or Red Grandis are impregnated with a special treatment that makes them resistant to weather conditions and pests. They can last a lifetime when they are maintained and painted correctly. They can also be fitted with burglar-proof glazing, which increases the force required to open the repairing window and makes it more difficult to smash.

While replacing timber sash windows using uPVC may be cheaper initially but it's not an option for period or listed buildings, as it could damage the integrity of the property and Repair Timber Windows be in breach of planning permission. uPVC is also draughty, and will last a limited time before it is required to be replaced.

Filling in cracks or splinters

If they are treated with the proper treatment and attention to timber windows, they can be in service for a long time. They can enhance a home's appearance, add decoration, and fulfill their most important function of keeping a property warm, dry and secure. As with all things, they can be prone to wear and tear and when this happens, it is vital that they are treated and repaired.

Wood decay is the most frequent problem that can affect windows made of wood and doors, and it's not just the case of replacing damaged parts. When a frame is damaged by rot, it could be extremely difficult to repair. It's important to check your windows made of wood regularly, particularly prior to winter. They can be particularly damaged by the freezing temperatures and pounding rain.

If a window is removed it's important to make a note of the condition of the frames and identifying any areas that are seriously damaged. This will help you save time and money as the process of restoration will be much easier. You'll save money by not needing to replace the entire window.

If you're planning to replace a damaged piece of a wooden window It is always recommended to splice in a brand new piece of matured wood instead of trying to repair the old one. This can be done by cutting the damage to at least 5cm beyond the point of rot or by removing the whole window sash before splicing in a new piece of wood.

The final step is to treat the wood with a preservative. This is to prevent moisture from entering the wood, which can cause it to decay and weaken the structure of the frame. If you are not going to treat your windows, it's important to paint them regularly to ensure they are in good condition.

In most instances, windows made of timber that are in need of repairs can be fixed by the handy DIYer. However, if the sashes or internal linings are damaged, it might be necessary to dismantle the window to rebuild them. A broken counterbalance cable on a double-hung window is one of the trickier problems to fix, since it can only be repaired by removing the sashes from the frame and disassembling it.

Painting

A well-painted finish can make a huge difference to timber windows. It can make windows look new and fresh. But it can also keep them healthy, by covering any signs of rot or other issues. Make sure that the wood is completely dried before you begin painting. Moisture can cause decay that is wet. If you are not sure, you can use a wood moisture meter to determine the moisture content of the timber. Moisture can still be present even if the wood appears and appears dry to the touch, therefore it is important to know how to spot whether your window frames are susceptible to wet rot.

Before painting, it's recommended to wipe over the whole frame with a soft moist cloth and remove any grease or oil marks. This will ensure that you don't just scratch the dirt and makes cleaning easier. It is also advisable to remove the window handles if you have them, and putting them on one side. This will make it much easier to work on the frames without having to worry about breaking the glass.

When you are ready begin painting, use an unclean brush and apply a thin coat of primer. This will give the surface a bit more depth and prepare it for the final coat of paint. After drying, lightly sand it with fine sandpaper to create an even finish.

The first coat of paint is applied. Make sure to paint in a thin layer and evenly over all areas. Once the paint has dried, sand the surface once more gently prior to applying the second coat.

Repeat this process until you're satisfied with the colour and appearance of your window. Be aware that you might need to repaint timber windows approximately every 6-10 years, according to their location and the amount of sunlight they get. Regular maintenance is the best method to ensure that your timber windows look and perform at their best for as long as you can.