How to Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows are a gorgeous feature that can really make a house stand out. They are susceptible to deterioration over time, particularly 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 retain its original character.

repairing double glazing windows rotten wood

Wooden window frames are constantly exposed to the elements and are among of the first components of a home that show signs of damage and damp. Fortunately, decayed wood can often be repaired and addressed quickly. It is important to identify the problem and act immediately. Otherwise, it could worsen.

Initially, it's essential to assess the extent of the rot and determine whether or not it is repairable. Begin by conducting an extensive inspection of the exterior, looking for damaged roof slates, tiles and blocked rain gutters and a faulty damp-proof course (DPC). It's also a good idea to check the inside of the property, including cellars and basements, and joist ends in non-cavity walls.

Once you have identified the area that is affected by the rot, it is essential to eliminate the decayed wood as much as possible. This will reduce the damage and make the rest of the repairs much easier. The next step is to make use of a pry bar, or a clawed hammer to prise away as much of the rotten timber as you can. This can be a bit difficult however, if you insert the clawed end of the pry bar into the corner and rubbing it against the healthy wood, you should be able to generate enough force to break the old timber.

Be sure to leave a clear gap between the timbers when removing the wood that is rotting. This will prevent moisture from leaking into the wood and causing damage to the timbers in the gap. To minimize the risk of leaks and further damage it is important to eliminate any debris and nails from the affected area.

The epoxy or wood filler can be used to repair the remaining boards after removing the decayed wood. This is an easy and relatively cheap solution for fixing wood rot in timber windows, and can be easily sanded and then painted to match the frame.

If the severity of the decay is serious However, it could be more economical to replace the entire frame with a new one particularly if you're looking for an ongoing solution that will protect against further moisture penetration. It's also a good idea to call an expert timber window repair service to determine what options are available to you.

Splicing or scarfing

Timber windows are a popular option for repairing double Glazing Windows older buildings and listed homes, however they can also be used to improve new properties. They are more expensive than upvc windows repair, but they provide long term advantages and increase the value of your home.

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

There are two main types of timber: hardwoods and softwoods. Hardwoods are broad-leafed deciduous trees with a complex cellular structure. This gives them good stability in terms of dimension. 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, or repairing double glazing windows comb joints. These joints are pinned or nailed into position and are not joined with adhesive. Over time, water ingress freely flows between sections of timber, which can cause staining or rot. Poor workmanship can contribute to this. Fixtures that are not properly installed or not properly covered can allow moisture enter the frame. This can lead to rust stains and water deposits on the window board if it is allowed to happen.

Replacing timber sash window repairs windows with uPVC is usually not an option, especially for historic and listed buildings, as they betray the integrity of the building. uPVC is also a low-quality material with a short lifespan. It ends up in landfill.

Modern timbers like Accoya and Red Grandis are treated and impregnated to ensure that they are resistant to the effects of weather conditions and pests. Properly maintained and painted, these windows will provide a lifetime of service. They can be fitted with burglar proof glass which increases the force required to open the windows and makes them more difficult to smash.

While replacing timber sash with uPVC is at first cheaper but it isn't an ideal choice for listed or period homes as it can damage the integrity of the structure and could breach planning permission. uPVC is also draughty and has a short lifespan before it is required to be replaced.

Filling cracks and splinters

With the proper care and attention timber windows can last for many years. They can improve the aesthetics of a structure, add decorations, and perform their primary purpose that is to keep a property warm and dry. As with all things, they are susceptible to damage and wear. It is crucial that they be treated and repaired when this happens.

Wood rot can be an issue for timber windows. It's not enough to repair the rotten pieces. If frames are damaged by rot, it could be a challenge to repair. It is important to inspect your timber windows frequently, particularly before winter. The constant cold temperatures and rain can be particularly rough on the windows, thereby increasing the chance of water penetration.

If a window is removed, it's worth making notes of the frame's condition and noting any areas that are badly damaged. This will help you save time and money since the process of restoration is much more straightforward. It can also reduce the cost of replacing a complete window.

If you want to replace a damaged part of a wooden window, it is always best to splice or scarf in a new piece seasoned wood rather than attempting to fix the damaged one. This can be done by either cutting the damaged area at least 5cm beyond the point of rot, or by taking the entire sash off and splicing a new piece.

The final step is to treat the wood with an appropriate preservative. This will prevent moisture from entering the wood which can cause it to rot and weaken its structure. If you are not going to treat your windows, it's vital to paint them regularly to keep them in good condition.

In the majority of cases, windows made of wood that are in need of repairs can be repaired by the handy DIYer. However in the event that the sashes or internal linings are broken window repair near me it may be necessary to remove the window and re-build them. One of the more tricky issues to fix is a broken counterbalance rope for double glazing windows repair-hung windows because they are only replaced by taking the sashes off and disassembling the frame.

Painting

A fresh coat of paint will do wonders for your timber windows. It can make windows appear new and fresh. But it can also keep them in good health by covering any rot or other issues. Make sure that the wood is completely dry before you begin painting. Moisture can cause wet decay. Use a wood moisture meter to determine if you're not sure. Moisture can still be present even if the wood appears and appears dry to the touch, which is why it is essential to know how to spot if your window frames are susceptible to wet rot.

Before you begin painting, it is a good idea to wipe over the whole frame with a soft, damp cloth and then remove any grease or oil marks. This will stop you from spreading dirt and will make cleaning easier. If you have window handles, it is worth removing them and putting them aside. This will make it much easier to work on the frames without fear of breaking the glass.

Apply a thin layer of primer using a dry, clean brush once you are ready. This will give the surface a bit more depth and prepare it for the final coat of paint. Dry it and then sand it gently with sandpaper that is fine to give it a smooth surface.

The first coat of paint is now applied. Be sure to paint in thin layers and evenly cover all areas. Once the paint is dry, sand the surface once more before applying the second coat.

Repeat this process until you're happy with the colour and appearance of your window. It's possible that you need to re-paint your windows made of wood every 6 to 10 years, based on the location and how much sun they receive. Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure your windows made of timber look and function at their best for as long as you can.