How to Properly Maintain and Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows are a beautiful feature of many old buildings. However, if they are not properly cared for and regularly painted they can be damaged and stop functioning properly.

It is possible to repair the rotting wood that is in window frames and it can be quite straightforward using the correct techniques. There are a variety of methods of treating rot available that are more effective than others.

Verify the overall condition

Timber windows will deteriorate over time due to exposure to elements, and also the damp in your home. Unchecked, this can result in the development of rot on timber.

It is essential to act swiftly when you notice that your windows made of wood are damaged. Ignoring timber rot will only cause it to worsen over time, especially during winter when it's cold and snowy. It's not that difficult to repair timber windows even if they're in pretty bad condition. You'll need to put in some time and effort.

It is crucial to think about different repair techniques are suitable for different situations when assessing the general condition of a window. For instance, splicing fresh timber is a great way to repair a door rotten sections of your window frame. This is only suggested if the rotten part of your window isn't larger than a certain size. If the part that is rotten of your window is large it is possible to replace the entire sash.

It is first necessary to examine your timber windows. You must look for indications of damp and rot and damage to the frame and sills. Get a professional to look over your windows repairing made of wood if are unsure of what to look for.

Wear protective gloves when doing this. Broken or splintered windows glass can pose a risk. It's recommended to have a ladder available and a person to hold it.

Penetrating damp is one of the primary reasons why timber windows become damaged. The penetration of damp could cause your timber windows to decay, which could lead to serious issues like dry or wet decay. It is essential to have your windows fixed whenever you suspect they are affected by the penetration of moisture. This will prevent further damage to timber windows and protect your home against damp and decay.

Clean the Frames

Timber windows are strong and durable, but they need to be maintained and cleaned on a regular basis. If you don't, they could begin to degrade, impacting their look and performance. This could cause rotting, mould development and the need for repair double glazing windows work.

To begin cleaning your wood window frames, use a damp cloth and some washing liquid. This will remove any dirt or dust that has accumulated on the frame. If there are marks or stains that won't go away make use of a soft toothbrush with a bit of water and washing liquid to gently scrub the area.

It is also recommended to clean the glass panes as well as handles and hinges. Once the frames are cleaned, you can begin any door repairs or renovations. For example, double glazed windows repairs if your hinges are loose or the silicone surrounding them has begun to separate it is important to get this repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage.

Once the filler or splice repair is dry, it's important to give everything a light sand prior to painting. This will smooth the surface, and create a uniform look. It is recommended that you make use of a wood varnish or stain that is designed specifically for timber windows. These will provide the best protection and double glazed windows repairs finish.

After your timber windows have been painted and sanded, it's a good idea for you to seal the edges using an oil-based sealant that is waterproof. This will stop moisture from getting in and damaging the timber over time.

When the window is fully sanded, it's now time to paint. This should be done on a day with no wind or rain forecast. It's also worth making sure that you're using high-quality exterior-grade stain or paint suitable for timber. After the paint has dried you can lightly sand the paint with fine sandpaper and then wash off any dust.

Fill Any Cracks

The timber used in windows naturally expands and contracts in accordance with the temperature, however this can be made worse by elements like water penetration, which leads to decay. This is why it is important to keep up with maintenance of the paint - cracked or blistered paint allows water to enter which accelerates the process of degradation. This is especially true in the winter months when water freezes and breaks down wood fibres, leading to the wood to warp and decay. Utilizing modern timbers such as Accoya (which does not expand or contract as much) and coatings that are designed to cope with this, will ensure a long service life from your windows.

It is also crucial to fill any cracks in your frames as soon as they appear, since neglecting them can lead to the formation of rot. Utilize a filler specifically designed for use on the outside to fix any splinters, flakes or tiny splits you might discover in your frames. Apply it liberally on the affected area. This will not only seal in moisture, but also aid to strengthen your frame.

In certain situations it is necessary to replace a section of the frame because of rot or damage. This can be accomplished by a professional carpenter who will remove the damaged area and treat it before join an entirely new piece of well-seasoned timber on a similar basis. It is recommended for the new splice to be treated with a dry-rot treatment prior to being put into the frame. This will prevent further rotting and add strength to the frame.

Once the splice is joined and dried, you can sand down the repaired area to its original shape. Make sure that it is flush with surrounding frame. This is where it could be helpful to have a range of types of sandpaper available, progressing from the coarsest grade to an easier one to finish the job.

Keep in mind that wood windows are more costly to repair than windows made in plastic or metal. It's important to check for any damage prior to beginning major work. If you notice the presence of rot in the frame, it's probably better to replace the entire frame rather than attempt to repair and re-glaze each part.

Paint

Timber windows can give charm, character and style to older houses, or they can give a cottage feel to modern ones. They are generally believed to be more attractive than uPVC or aluminium windows, however they require more care as the natural wood is prone to damage and can also react with different weather conditions in an unpredictable way. If left unattended, timber windows like sash and casement can deteriorate quite rapidly and will eventually need replacing. A careful repair and regular painting can extend the life of your wooden double glazed windows repairs.

First, you will need to get rid of the old paint. You can also employ a wire brush or paint scraper. After the paint has been removed, it is time to sand down the wood. This will create a smooth finish and ensure that any dampness is not absorbed into the wood and cause rot.

Once the sanding process is completed, it's time to paint. It is best to paint on a sunny and dry day, so that the paint can dry quickly. Start with the areas that are difficult to reach and work your way around the entire window frame. When you reach the sill and sash areas ensure that you do not be touching it as this can cause the oil-based putty to peel away.

It is important to allow the sill and sash area to dry for a minimum of 2 weeks - best is a month. If you rush this process then the putty will not set and your window won't be as long-lasting.

While you wait for the sash and sill to dry it is worth looking at the hardware in general, especially the hinges, lock levers and lift pulls. To ensure that they work properly, you'll require realignment and oiling. Re-glue joints that are loose and apply an exterior grade adhesive that is strong for new joints.

Replacing timber windows is a big task and costly and therefore it is important to take into consideration the condition of your current timber frames before you invest in replacements. If you see signs of wear and tear, or the timber is rotting, then renovation may be an alternative. It's not cheap however, it's far less than the full cost of replacing your old windows.