How to Properly Maintain and Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows are a stunning characteristic of many older buildings. But, if not maintained properly and painted regularly, they may be damaged and stop working properly.

The right methods can help you repair double glazed windows the rotting wood in window frames. There are a number of different treatments for rotting available with some of them being more effective than others.

Examine the general condition

Over time, the timber windows will begin to decay due to being exposed to the elements and humidity in your property. If left unchecked this can result in rotting of the timber - and that's not good.

If you find that your windows made of timber have begun to deteriorate, it's imperative that you act quickly. The delay in addressing rotted timber will make it worse, particularly when winter comes around. Even if your timber windows are in bad shape you can still fix them. You'll need to put in a little more time and effort.

It's important to consider that different repair upvc windows techniques are suitable for different situations when assessing the general condition of the window. For instance, splicing fresh timber is an effective method to fix rotten parts of your window frame made of timber. However, this is only recommended if the rotten section of your window is not too large. If the rotten part of your window is large it may be necessary to replace the entire sash.

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

Wear protective gloves when doing this. Broken or splintered windows glass can be hazardous. Also, you should have an appropriate ladder and someone to help you steady the ladder.

One of the most common reasons why timber windows start to deteriorate is because they're exposed to damp that penetrates your home. The penetration of damp could cause your timber windows to rot, and this can cause serious problems such as dry or wet rot. If you suspect that your windows made of timber are suffering from penetrating damp it is crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can. This will help prevent further damage to the windows and safeguard your home from damp and mold.

Cleaning the Frames

Timber windows are sturdy and durable, however they need to be maintained regularly. If you don't, they could begin to degrade, impacting their look and performance. This can lead rot to grow, mould, and the need for repairs to upvc doors.

To begin cleaning your timber window frames, apply a damp cloth and some washing liquid. This will help remove any dirt and dust that has accumulated on the frame. If there are any stubborn marks or Door repairman Near Me stains that aren't going away or disappear, you can apply a soft bristle with a small amount of water and a washing up liquid to gently scrub them off.

Also, you should clean the glass panes, as well as handles and hinges. Once the frames are clean then you can begin making any repairs or renovations that you may require. If your hinges aren't working properly or the silicone around them is pulling away from the frame, you must make the necessary repairs as soon as you can.

After the filler or splice has dried, it's important to lightly sand everything prior to painting. This will smooth the surface and give it an even appearance. It is recommended to use a wood varnish or stain that is designed specifically for windows made of timber. They will give you the best protection and finish.

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

It's time to start painting the window after it has been completely sanded. It's a good idea to do this on a clear day when there's no wind or rain in the forecast. You should also choose a quality exterior-grade stain or paint suitable for wood. Once the paint has dried you can lightly sand it using some fine sandpaper, and then take off any dust to ensure that your double glazing windows repairs look great.

Fill any Cracks

The wood in timber windows naturally expands and contracts according to the temperature, however this can be exacerbated due to factors like water penetration, which leads to decay. This is why it's important to keep up with painting maintenance. Cracked and blistered paint lets water in which accelerates the process of degradation. This is especially true in winter, when water freezes and forces wood fibres apart in a process that causes warping and rot. Utilizing modern timbers such as Accoya (which does not expand and contract as much) and coatings that are designed to handle this, will ensure an extended life span from your windows.

Filling any cracks or splinters in your frames is crucial, as rotting can occur when you do not take care of them. Make use of a filler made for use on exteriors to repair any splinters, flakes or small splits that you find in your frames. Apply it generously to the affected area. This will not only stop moisture, but will also strengthen your frame.

In some cases it is required to replace a piece of the frame made of timber due to damage or rot. This can be done by a professional carpenter who will take out the damaged area and treat it, then splice in the new piece of seasoned timber on a similar basis. It is a good idea to allow the new splice be treated by a dry-rot treatment prior being placed into the frame. This will prevent further rotting, and add strength to the existing frame.

After the splice is glued and left to dry then you can sand the repaired area to its original shape. Make sure it is in line with the surrounding frame. It is beneficial to have a variety of sandpaper grades available, ranging from coarse to smoother for the final finish.

Remember that wood windows are more costly to fix than those in metal or plastic. It is essential to test for damage prior to undertaking any major work. If you notice an abundance of rot within the frame, it's best to replace the entire frame rather than attempt to repair and re-glaze every component.

Paint

Timber windows can provide character, charm and style to older properties, or can bring a rustic look to modern windows. They are generally considered to be more appealing than uPVC or aluminium windows, however, they require more attention as natural wood is susceptible to deterioration and may react with different weather conditions in an unpredictable way. If left unattended timber windows, including sash windows, will begin to deteriorate quickly and eventually require replacement. Regular painting and a careful repair can prolong the life of your wooden windows.

First, you'll need strip the old paint. You can also employ a paint brush or wire scraper. Once all the paint has been removed you'll need to sand the wood down. This will give the wood a a smoother finish and door repairman near me prevent dampness from getting into the wood and causing it to rot.

Once the sanding process is completed, it's time to start painting. It is best to paint on a dry, sunny day so that the paint will dry quickly. Start with the hard-to-reach areas and work your way up the entire frame of your window. When you are at the sill and sash area make sure you don't be touching it as this could cause the oil-based putty to peel away.

The sill and sash regions must be left to dry for at least 2 weeks, but it is best to leave it for an entire month. If you hurry this step then the putty will not be able to set and your window will not be as durable.

While you wait for the sill and sash to dry, it's worth checking all the hardware. Pay special attention to the hinges as well as the lock levers and the lift pulls. To ensure they function properly, you'll require realignment and oiling. Re-glue joints that are loose and apply an exterior grade adhesive that is strong on new joints.

It's costly to replace timber frames, so it is important to consider their condition before making the decision to buy new frames. If you notice signs of wear and door repairman Near me tear, or the wood is rotting and needs to be replaced, then a renovation could be a better alternative. While it may be costly but the expense is much less than replacing all your windows.