How to Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows can be an attractive feature of a house. However, over time and exposure to extreme conditions, they may begin to fade.

Repairs are much more cost-effective than replacing window frames. This will save you money and also help the property keep its charm.

Repairing rotten wood

Wooden window frames are exposed to the elements all year round and are usually one of the first places of a home to be affected by damp and damage. Fortunately, rotten wood can be repaired and dealt with quickly. The key is to identify the issue and act before it gets worse or even more damage can be caused.

Initially, it's essential to determine the extent of the rot and determine whether or not it's salvable. A thorough external survey is usually a good way to begin, examining for slates or tiles that are damaged on the roof or gutters that are blocked, as well as deficient damp proof course (DPC). It is also recommended to inspect the inside of the home including basements and cellars and joists that end in non-cavity walls.

Once you've identified the area that is affected by rot, it's important to eliminate as much rotten timber as possible. This will lessen 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 in order to remove as much of the rotted timber as you can. This can be a challenge, but by inserting the clawed end of the pry bar into the corner and rubbing it against the healthy wood it should be able to generate enough force to break the old timber.

Ensure that you leave a clear gap between the timbers when you remove the rotten wood. This will stop moisture from leaking into the wood and causing damage to the timbers around the gap. It's also worth removing any nails or other debris from the affected area to limit the chance of leaks in the future and damage.

After taking out as much of the rotten timber as you can, the remaining boards can be repaired with epoxy or wood filler. This is a fairly cost-effective and simple way to fix wood rot on timber windows. It can be sanded and painted to match your current frame.

If the extent of the decay is extensive However, it could be more economical to replace the entire frame with a new one, especially if you're seeking an option that can stop further water penetration. It's also a good idea to call a professional timber window repair service to determine what alternatives are available to you.

Splicing or scarfing

Timber windows are an excellent choice for older homes and listed structures, but they can be utilized in new construction. They are more expensive than uPVC, but they provide long term benefits and add value to your home.

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

Softwoods and hardwoods are the two main categories of wood. Hardwoods are deciduous broad-leafed trees with a complex cellular structure. This provides them with excellent stability in terms of size. Softwoods are, on the other hand, come from coniferous or needle-leafed trees. They have a less complex cellular structure.

Traditional structural joints in timber frames were formed by mortice and Tenons, or comb joints. These joints are nailed or pinned into place, but are not bonded with adhesive. As time passes, water freely passes between sections of timber, which can cause rot or staining. Poor workmanship can be a contributing factor. Fixtures that are not properly inserted or are not covered can allow moisture to get into the frame. This could lead to water stains and rust on the window boards when it is allowed to occur.

It is not recommended to replace the existing timber sash windows with uPVC especially in listed or historic buildings. This compromises the structural integrity. uPVC is also a low-quality material with a short lifespan. It ends up in landfill.

Modern timbers, such as Accoya or Red Grandis are impregnated with a specific treatment that makes them resistant to pests and weather conditions. They can last a lifetime if they're painted and maintained properly. They can even be fitted with burglar-proof glass, which increases the force required to open the window repair company and makes it more difficult to break.

While replacing timber sash windows using uPVC may be cheaper initially, this is not an option for period or listed buildings as it could damage the property's integrity and could be in violation of planning permission. uPVC is also draughty and has a short lifespan before it is required to be replaced.

Filling cracks or splinters

If you take care of your timber windows, units they'll last for a long time. They can improve a building's aesthetics, offer decorative features and serve their primary purpose of keeping a property warm, dry and secure. But, like all things, they can be prone to wear and tear and when this happens, it is vital to treat them and get repaired.

Wood decay is the most frequent problem that can affect windows made of wood, and it's not just the case of replacing damaged parts. When the frame is damaged by rot, it can be a difficult repair. This is why it's crucial to perform regular checks on your timber windows, especially before winter arrives. The pounding cold and rain can be particularly harsh on windows, increasing the risk of water penetration.

When a window is taken down it is important to take an inventory of the condition of the frames and identifying any areas that are badly damaged. This will save you time and money, as the process of restoration is much more straightforward. You'll save money by not needing to replace the entire window.

If you're looking to replace a damaged piece of a wooden window It is always recommended to splice in a brand new piece of well-seasoned wood instead of trying to repair the damaged one. This can be accomplished by cutting out the damage to at least 5cm beyond the point of rot, or by removing the whole sash window repairs and splicing in an entirely new piece of wood.

The final step is to treat the wood with a preservative. This will stop moisture from getting into the wood, which could cause it to rot and weaken the frame's structure. It is crucial to paint your windows repairs on a regular basis even if you don't plan to treat them.

The majority of windows made of timber can be repaired by a handy DIYer. However in the event that the sashes or internal linings are broken it may be necessary to remove the window and re-build them. A broken counterbalance cable on a double-hung windows is among the most difficult issues to fix, since it can only be fixed by taking the sashes out of the frame and disassembling it.

Painting

A good paint job can make a big difference on windows made of timber. It can give them the appearance of new and fresh However, it can also help keep them in good condition by covering any rot or other problems. Before you paint however, ensure that the wood is dry. Moisture can cause wet decay. If you're not sure, you can use a wood moisture meter to test the moisture content of the timber. Even if the wood feels and looks dry, moisture could be present. It is crucial to learn how to detect if your window frames have wet decay.

It is a good practice to clean the entire frame with a moist, soft cloth prior to painting. This will eliminate any grease or oils marks. This will stop you from spreading dirt and make cleaning easier. It is also worth removing the handles on your windows in the event that you have them and placing them on one side. This will make it easier to work with the frames without having to worry about breaking the glass.

If you are ready to start painting, take a clean brush and apply a thin coat of primer. This will give your surface more depth and prepare it for the final coat of paint. Dry it and then lightly sand it using fine sandpaper for an even finish.

It is now time to apply the first coat of paint. Again, make sure you paint in thin layers and evenly cover all areas. Once the paint has dried then sand it lightly and then apply a 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 your windows made of timber approximately every 6-10 years depending on their location and the amount of sunlight they receive. Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure that your windows made of timber look and perform at their best for as long as you are able to.