How to Properly Maintain and Repair Timber Windows

Windows made of timber are a gorgeous feature of many old buildings. However, if they are not maintained properly and regularly painted they can be damaged and stop functioning properly.

It is possible to repair rotting wood in timber window frames and it is easy to do so using the correct methods. There are many different treatments for rotting available that are more efficient than others.

Verify the overall condition

The timber windows will degrade as time passes due to exposure to the elements and the dampness in your home. If not taken care of, this could lead directly to timber rot.

If you notice that your windows made of timber have begun to deteriorate, it's imperative to act swiftly. Ignoring rotted timber will only make it worse, particularly when winter arrives. Even if your windows made of wood are in poor condition it is still possible to repair them. You'll need to put in some extra time and effort.

When evaluating a window's overall condition, it is important to consider the fact that various repair methods work in different scenarios. repairing double glazed windows damaged timber sections of the frame of your window can be accomplished by splicing new timber into the frame. However, this technique is only recommended if the damaged section of your window not too big. If the part that is rotten of your window is very large it is possible to replace the entire sash.

You'll first need to inspect your windows made of wood. You must look for signs of rot, damp and damage to the frame or sills. Ask a professional to inspect your timber windows if you are unsure of what to look for.

Wear heavy work gloves while doing this. Splintered and cracked window glass can be dangerous. It's also a good idea to have a ladder on hand and someone to help steady it.

One of the most common reasons that timber windows begin to decay is because they're exposed to damp that penetrates your property. The penetration of damp can cause your windows to rot, which can cause serious problems such as dry or wet rot. It is essential to have your timber windows repaired whenever you suspect they are impacted by penetrating moisture. This will help avoid further damage to the windows and safeguard your home from damp and rot.

Cleaning the Frames

Timber windows are strong and durable, but they need to be maintained and cleaned regularly. They are susceptible to deterioration and loss of their function if you don't. This can cause rotting, mould growth, and the need to repair them.

A good place to start cleaning your wooden window frames is to clean them with a damp cloth and some washing up liquid. This will eliminate any dirt or dust that has accumulated on the frame. If there are stubborn stains or marks that won't go away then use a soft brush with a bit of water and washing liquid to gently scrub the area.

Also, you should clean the glass panes and handles and hinges. After the frames have been cleaned you can begin making any upvc door repairs near me or improvements you may require. For example, if your hinges are loose or the silicone surrounding them has started to pull away, this needs to be fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Once any repair or filler is dry, it's essential to give it a light sand prior to painting. This will smooth the surface, and create a uniform look. It is recommended to apply stain or varnish for wood that is designed specifically for timber windows. They will give you the most durable protection and finish.

After your windows made of timber have been painted and sanded, it's recommended to seal the edges with a waterproof sealant. This will stop moisture from getting inside and damaging the wood over time.

Once the window is completely cleaned, it's time to paint. This should be done on a day when there is no rain or wind forecast. You should also use an exterior grade stain or paint suitable for wood. Once the paint is dry, you can lightly sand it with fine sandpaper and then scrub off any dust.

Fill any cracks that may appear

Water penetration can cause rot to the timber of windows made of timber. This is why it is important to keep up with paint maintenance - cracked and blistered paint allows water in and accelerates the deterioration. This is especially true in winter when the water freezes and causes wood fibres to break which can cause rot and warping. Modern timbers such as Accoya are not able to expand or shrink as much, and coatings designed to cope with these conditions will give your windows a long-lasting life.

Filling any cracks or splinters that are present in your frames is crucial because rotting can happen in the event that you don't take care. Utilize a filler specifically designed for use on exteriors to repair any flakes, splinters, or small splits you may find in your frames. Apply it evenly on the affected area. This will not only seal out moisture, but will also strengthen your frame.

In some cases it might be required to replace a piece of the timber frame because of rot or damage. This can be accomplished by an experienced carpenter who will cut out the damaged area and treat it before splice in a new piece of well-seasoned timber on a like-for-like basis. It is recommended to allow the new splice be treated by a dry-rot treatment prior being put into the frame. This will stop further rotting, and will add strength to the existing frame.

After the splice is glued, and allowed to dry then you can sand the repaired area to its original shape. Be sure it is flush with surrounding frame. It is helpful to have a variety of sandpaper grades available, ranging from coarse to a smoother final finish.

It is important to remember that timber windows can be a lot more expensive to fix than their plastic and metal counterparts, so it's essential to assess the overall condition prior to making any major changes. If you see the presence of rot in the frame, it's better to replace the entire frame instead of try to repair and reglue each part.

Paint

Timber windows add character, style and appeal to older homes, or they can bring an old-fashioned look to modern homes. They are generally considered to be more appealing than upvc doors repair or aluminium windows, however, they require more care because the natural wood is prone to damage and can also react to different weather conditions in a sporadic way. Unattended, timber casement and sash windows can deteriorate quickly and eventually need to be replaced. Regular painting and a careful repair can prolong the life of your wooden windows.

First, you'll need to remove the old paint. A power stripper is often recommended, but you could use an old-fashioned paint scraper or wire brush as well. Once all the paint is removed, you'll need sand the wood. This will create smooth finish and also help prevent any dampness getting into the timber and causing decay.

After sanding, windows repaired it's time for painting. You'll want to paint on a dry, sunny day to allow the paint to dry quickly. Begin with the difficult-to-access areas and work your way up the entire window frame. When you get to the sash and sill area be sure not to touch it, because this could cause the oil-based glue to peel off.

You'll need to allow the sill and sash to dry for a minimum of two weeks, but the best is at least a month. If you rush this process then the putty won't be able to set and your window will not be as durable.

While you wait for the sill and sash to dry it is worth taking a look at all the hardware, especially the hinges, lock levers and lift pulls. To ensure that they function properly, you'll require realignment and oiling. It's also a good idea to re-glue any joints that have become loose, and then use a strong external-grade adhesive on new joinery.

Replacing upvc windows repairs made of wood is a huge undertaking and expensive, so it's important to consider the condition of your current frames before investing in replacements. Renovation may be the better option if you notice an excessive amount of wear and tear or rotting timber. While it is costly but the expense is much lower than replacing all your windows.