How to Properly Maintain and Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows are a stunning feature of many old buildings. However, if they are not maintained properly and regularly painted, they could be damaged and stop functioning correctly.

The correct methods will make it easier to repair double glazing windows rotting timber in window frames. There are many different methods of rot treatment available with some of them more effective than others.

Check the Overall Condition

Over time, the timber windows will begin to decay because they are exposed to the elements and damp in your property. If not taken care of, this could cause rot in the timber - and that's not good.

If you notice that your timber windows have begun to deteriorate, it's imperative that you act quickly. Ignoring timber rot will only result in it worsening in time, particularly during winter when it's cold and snowy. Fortunately, it's not difficult to fix timber windows, even if they're in bad condition. It's just a matter of investing some time and effort.

When assessing a window's overall condition it's important to take into account the fact that various repair to double glazed windows methods are suitable for different situations. Repairing damaged timber sections of the frame of your window can be done by splicing fresh timber into the frame. This technique is only recommended if the rotten part of your window isn't larger than the size of a certain amount. If the part that is rotten of your window is very large, you may need to replace the entire sash.

You'll first need to inspect your timber windows. Look for indications of damp, rot and damage to the sills or frame. Ask a professional to inspect your timber windows if you aren't sure what to look for.

Remember to wear heavy work gloves while doing this, repair double glazing windows as cracked and splintered windows can be hazardous. It is also recommended to have a ladder and someone who can help you steady the ladder.

Penetrating damp is one the main reasons timber windows degrade. The penetration of moisture can cause your windows to decay and result in more serious issues such as dry or wet decay. If you think that your timber windows are suffering from penetrating damp, it's important that you get them repaired as soon as you can. This will help avoid further damage to timber windows and protect your home against damp and rot.

Cleaning the Frames

Timber windows are strong and durable, but they must be maintained and cleaned on a regular basis. If you don't do this, they can start to deteriorate, impacting their look and function. This can lead to rot to grow, mould, and the need for repairs.

To begin cleaning your timber window frames, apply a damp cloth with some washing liquid. This will get rid of any dirt or dust that has built up on the frame. If there are any stains or marks that aren't going away then you can apply a soft bristle with the use of a small amount of water and washing liquid to gently scrub them away.

Also, you should clean any glass panes as well as the hinges and handles. Once the frames are cleaned, you can start any door repairs or renovations. If the hinges are loosened or the silicone around them is starting to pull away from the frame, you should fix this as soon as you can.

After any filler or splice repair is done, it's crucial to give it a light sand before painting. This will help to smooth the surface and give it a uniform appearance. It is recommended that you make use of a stain or varnish made of wood that is specifically designed for windows made of timber. They will give you the highest level of protection and finish.

It's also recommended to apply a waterproof sealant to the edges of your windows made of timber once they have been sanded and painted. This will prevent moisture from entering and causing damage to the wood over time.

It's time for you to begin painting the window after it's been completely sanded. This should be done on a day when there is no wind or rain forecast. You should also choose a quality exterior-grade stain or paint suitable for wood. After the paint has dried you can lightly sand it using a fine sandpaper. Then, remove any dust to ensure that your windows are in good condition.

Fill any cracks

Water penetration can cause rot to the wood of timber windows. This is why it is important to keep up with paint maintenance - cracked and blistered paint allows water in, which speeds up degrading. This is particularly true in the winter months when water freezes and causes the breakdown of wood fibres, causing warping and rot. Modern timbers like Accoya are not able to expand or shrink as significantly, and the coatings created to cope with these conditions will ensure that your windows a long lifespan.

Filling any cracks or splinters within your frames is vital, as rotting can occur when you do not take care of them. If you discover any flakes, splinters or small splits in your frames, it is best to apply a filler that has been designed for exterior use and apply it generously to the affected area. This will not only stop water, but also strengthen your frame.

In certain situations, it could be necessary for a piece of the frame to be replaced because of decay. This can be accomplished by an experienced carpenter who will cut out the damaged section, treat it and then splice in a new piece of well-seasoned timber on a similar basis. It is a good idea to allow the new splice be treated with a dry-rot treatment before being placed into the frame. This will prevent further rotting, and will add strength to the existing frame.

After the splice is glued and dried, you can sand down the repaired area back to its original shape. Make sure it is flush with surrounding frame. It is helpful to have a variety of sandpaper grades available, from coarse to smoother for the final finish.

Be aware that wooden windows are more expensive to fix than their counterparts in metal or plastic. It is important to look for any damage prior to beginning major work. If you find a significant amount of rot, it is probably better to consider replacing the entire frame rather than attempting to repair a window and re-glue individual parts.

Paint

Timber windows give character, style and charm to older properties and can also give the charm of a cottage to newer homes. They are generally considered to be more appealing than uPVC or aluminium windows however they require more care as the natural wood is prone to damage and can also react to weather conditions in an unpredictable way. If left unattended, timber casement or Sash windows can become damaged quickly and eventually need to be replaced. Careful repair and regular painting can extend the life of your windows made of timber.

The first step is to remove the old paint. You can also use an electric brush or repair double glazing windows a paint scraper. After the paint has been removed, you will need to sand down the wood. This will give the wood a smoother finish and prevent dampness from getting into the wood and causing it to rot.

After the sanding, it's time for painting. Paint on a dry, sunny day so that the paint can dry quickly. Start with the areas that are difficult to reach and then work your way through the whole window frame. When you are at the sill and sash areas be sure not to contact it, as this can cause the oil-based putty to peel off.

You'll need to leave the sill and sash to dry for at least two weeks, but the best is a month. If you rush this step then the putty won't dry and your window won't be as durable.

While you're waiting for the sash and sill to dry, it's worth taking a look at the hardware in general, especially the hinges, lock levers, and lift pulls. To ensure they function properly, you'll need realignment and lubrication. It's also a good idea to repair any joints that have come loose, and then use a strong external-grade adhesive on new joints.

Replacing windows made of wood is a huge project and costly and therefore it is important to take into consideration the condition of your existing timber frames before you invest in replacements. If you notice a lot of wear and tear, or the wood is rotting or rotting, then renovating it could be an alternative. Although it can be expensive, the cost is far less than replacing all your windows.