How to Repair Timber Windows
Timber windows are a gorgeous feature that can really make a home stand out. They can deteriorate in time, particularly if they are exposed to extreme weather conditions.
Rather than replacing timber window frames, it's better to make repairs. This will save money and also help the property retain its character.
Repairing rotten wood
Window frames made of wood are constantly exposed to the elements and are often one of the first elements of a house to exhibit signs of damage and damp. Fortunately, wood that is rotten is often repaired and handled quickly. The key is to identify the problem and address it before it worsens, or even more damage can be caused.
It's important to first assess the extent of the rot and determine if it can be salvaged. A thorough inspection of the exterior is usually a good place to begin, looking for damaged roof tiles or slates or gutters that are blocked, as well as defective damp proof course (DPC). It is also recommended to inspect the inside of the house, including cellars and basements and joists that end in non-cavity walls.
After you've identified the part that is affected by rot, it's important to get rid of as much of the decayed timber as you can. upvc window repairs near me will reduce the damage and make the rest of the repairs easier. The next step is to make use of a pry bar, or a clawed hammer to prise away as much of the rotted timber as you can. This can be a bit difficult however, by putting the clawed end of the pry bar into the corner and pressing it against the healthy wood, you will be able to create enough leverage to break the old timber.
When you remove the rotten wood Be sure to leave an open space between the two. This will prevent moisture from getting into the gap and causing further damage to the timbers around it. To minimize the risk of further damage and leaks, it's worth removing all nails and debris from the affected area.
After taking out as much of the decayed timber as you are able to be able to, the remaining timber can be fixed with epoxy or wood filler. This is a fairly cost-effective and simple way to repair rotted wood on windows made of timber. It can be sanded, then painted to match your existing frame.
If the degree of decay is extensive However, it might be more economical to replace the entire window frame with a new one, especially if you're looking for an ongoing solution that will ensure that moisture isn't able to penetrate further. It's also a good idea to call an expert wood window repair service to determine what alternatives are available to you.
Splicing or scarfing
Timber windows are a great choice for older homes and listed buildings, but they can be utilized in new construction. While they're more expensive however, they can provide long-term benefits and add value.
They are very robust and can be cut to any size. They are also very easy to retrofit with insulated glass units (IGUs) and offer outstanding thermal performance. They require regular maintenance, especially painting.
Hardwoods and softwoods are the two main categories of wood. Hardwoods are broad-leafed deciduous species with an intricate cellular structure. This provides them with good stability in terms of dimension. Softwoods are, on the other hand are coniferous or needle-leafed trees. They have a much simpler cellular structure.
Traditionally, structural joints within timber frames were made using mortice and Tenons or the comb joint. These joints are nailed or pinned to the frame and are not bonded using adhesive. Water can easily pass between timber sections and cause rot or staining. Poor workmanship could be an important factor. For instance fixings that are exposed or not properly punched in could cause moisture to penetrate the frame. If this happens it can lead to the staining of rust and water deposits on window frames.
It is not recommended to replace existing timber sash window with uPVC, especially in historic or listed buildings. This could compromise the structural integrity of the building. Furthermore, uPVC windows have a short lifespan and eventually end up in landfill.
Modern timbers like Accoya and Red Grandis are treated and impregnated to ensure that they are immune to the effects of weather conditions and pests. If properly maintained and painted these windows can provide the longest service. They can be fitted with burglar proof glazing which increases the force required to open the windows and makes them more difficult to break.
Although replacing timber sash with uPVC is initially cheaper, it is not a good option for listed or period properties because it will damage the integrity and violate the planning permission. Furthermore, uPVC can be very noisy and has a limited lifespan before they start to degrade and need replacement.
Filling in cracks or splinters
If they are treated with the proper care and attention timber windows can last for a long time. They can improve a building's appearance, add decoration and fulfil their primary purpose of keeping a property warm, dry and secure. As with all things, they can be prone to wear and tear and when this happens, it is vital that they are treated and repaired.
Wood rot can be a major problem for timber windows. It's not enough to repair the rotten pieces. Once a frame has been damaged due to rot, it may be very difficult to repair. That's why it's essential to perform regular inspections of your timber windows, particularly prior to winter arrives. The pounding cold and rain can be particularly harsh on them, increasing the likelihood of moisture penetration.
If a window is removed it is important to take a note of the frame's condition and noting any areas that are seriously damaged. This can help save time and money in the long run since it will make the restoration process much simpler. It can also save you the expense of replacing a whole window.
If you're looking to replace a damaged part of a window made of timber it is recommended to splice in a new piece of well-seasoned wood instead of trying to repair the damaged one. This can be done by cutting out the damage to at least 5cm over the point of rot or by removing the whole sash and splicing in the new piece of wood.
The final step is treating the wood with a preservative. This will prevent moisture from entering the wood, which could cause it rot and weaken its structure. It is essential to paint your windows on a regular basis even if you don't plan to treat them.
In the majority of cases, windows made of wood that are in need of repairs can be fixed by the handy DIYer. However in the event that the internal linings or sashes are damaged, it might be necessary to dismantle the window and rebuild them. A broken counterbalance cord on double-hung window is one of the more difficult problems to fix since it can only be repaired by removing the sashes from the frame and disassembling it.
Painting
A fresh coat of paint will make a huge difference to your windows made of wood. It can make windows look new and fresh. But it also helps keep them healthy by covering any signs of rot or other issues. Make sure that the wood is completely dried before you begin painting. Moisture can cause wet decay. If you're not sure, try a wood moisture meter for testing the moisture content of the wood. There is a possibility of moisture even if the wood looks and appears dry to the touch, so it is important to know how to spot if your window frames are susceptible to wet rot.
It is a good idea to wipe the entire frame with a moist, soft cloth prior to beginning painting. This will get rid of any oil or grease marks. This will prevent the spread of dirt and make cleaning easier. It is also worth removing the handles on your windows if you have them, and putting them to one side. This will make it much easier to work on the frames without having to worry about breaking the glass.
Apply a thin layer of primer with a clean, dry brush when you are ready. This will give your surface more depth and prepare it for the final coat of paint. After drying, lightly sand it using fine sandpaper for smoothness.
It is now time to apply the first coat of paint. Again, make sure you apply the paint in a thin layer and evenly cover all areas. Once the paint has dried, sand it again gently and then apply the next coat.
Repeat this procedure until your window has the desired colour and finish. It is possible to paint your windows made of timber every 6 to 10 years, based on where they are and the amount of sun they get. Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure that your timber windows look and function to their best for as long as you can.