How to Repair Timber Windows
Timber windows are a beautiful feature that can truly make a home stand out. However, over the passage of time and exposure to extreme weather conditions, they could begin to fade.
Rather than replacing timber window frames, it's much better to make repairs. This will help save money and help the home keep its charm.
Repairing rotten wood
Window frames made of wood are exposed to the elements throughout the year and are frequently one of the first places of a house to exhibit signs of damp and damage. Fortunately, decayed wood can often be repaired and dealt with quickly. The trick is to recognize the problem and take action before it gets worse, or worse damage may be caused.
It is crucial to assess the extent of the rot and decide whether it's repairable. A thorough inspection of the exterior is usually a good way to begin, examining for damaged roof tiles or slates as well as blocked guttering and defective damp proof course (DPC). Also, you should check the interior of the home including the cellars and basements as well as the joist ends on non-cavity walls.
When you've identified the area affected by the rot, it is essential to remove the rotten wood as soon as you can. This will reduce the extent of damage and allow you to finish the remaining repair work. The next step is to make use of a clawed hammer, or pry bar to take out as much wood that is rotting as feasible. It's not easy to accomplish however, by pressing the clawed end of the hammer against the healthy board and putting the pry bar in the corner it will create enough leverage to remove the old wood.
When you remove the rotten wood Be sure to leave a gap between the two. This will stop moisture from entering the gap and cause further damage to the timbers around it. It's also worth removing any nails or other debris from the affected area to reduce the risk of leaks in the future and damage.
After taking out as much of the rotten timber as you can be able to, the remaining timber can be fixed with wood filler or epoxy. This is a simple and affordable method of repairing wood rot in windows made of timber, and can be easily sanded, then painted to match the frame.
If the rot is extensive, it could be more cost-effective to replace the entire window frame, particularly when you're looking for an ongoing fix that will prevent further water penetration. It's also worth contacting an expert wood window repair service to find out what options are available to you.
Splicing or scarfing
Timber windows are a traditional choice for period homes and listed houses, but they can also be used to upgrade new properties. They are more expensive than uPVC however, they offer long term benefits and add value to your home.
They can be made in any size and are extremely robust. They are also extremely easy to retrofit with IGUs (IGUs) and offer outstanding thermal performance. They require periodic maintenance, especially painting.
Softwoods and hardwoods are the two main types of wood. Hardwoods are broad-leafed deciduous species with a complex cellular structure. This provides them with good stability in terms of dimension. Softwoods are, on the other hand, come from needle-leafed or coniferous trees and have a much simpler cell structure.
Traditionally, structural joints in timber frames were made by mortice and tenons, or the comb joint. These joints are pinched or nailed to the frame and are not bonded using adhesive. As time passes, water easily flows through the sections of timber, which can cause staining or rot. 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. This can lead to water deposits and rust stains on the window board when it is allowed to occur.
It is not recommended to replace existing timber sash windows using uPVC especially in listed or historic buildings. This compromises the structural integrity of the building. uPVC is also a cheap material with a short life. It ends up in the landfill.
Modern timbers like Accoya and Red Grandis are treated and impregnated to ensure that they are able to withstand the effects of weather conditions and pests. These windows can last a lifetime if they are painted and maintained properly. They can be equipped with burglar proof glass which increases the force needed to open the windows and makes them harder to break.
While replacing timber sash using uPVC is at first cheaper, it is not an ideal option for period or listed properties, as this will ruin the integrity of the building and also violate the planning permission. uPVC is also draughty, and has a short lifespan before it is required to be replaced.
Filling cracks or splinters
With the proper care and attention timber windows can last for a long time. They can enhance the look of a structure, add decorative elements, and serve their most important function that is to keep the building warm and dry. Like all things they are subject to damage and wear. It is essential to take care of them and repaired if they are damaged.
Wood rot can be a major problem for timber windows. It's not enough to fix the damaged pieces. Once a frame has been damaged due to rot, it may be very difficult to repair. That's why it's essential to conduct regular checks on your timber windows, especially before winter. The constant rain and freezing temperatures can be particularly harsh on windows, increasing the risk of water penetration.
When a window is taken down it's important to make an inventory of the condition of the frames and identifying any areas that are severely damaged. This will save time and money in the end as it'll make the restoration process much more straightforward. It can also save you the cost of replacing a complete window.
If you're looking to replace a damaged piece of a wooden window it is recommended to splice or wrap in a new piece of matured wood instead of trying to repair the old one. This can be achieved by either cutting away the damaged area at least 5 centimeters past the point of rot or by removing the entire sash and splicing in a new one.
The final step is to treat the wood with a suitable preservative. This is to prevent moisture from getting into the wood, which can cause it to rot and weaken the frame's structure. If you are not going to treat your windows, it is essential that you paint them on a regular basis to keep them in good condition.
Most windows made of wood can be repaired by a skilled DIYer. However in the event that the sashes or internal linings are broken it may be necessary to take down the window to rebuild them. A damaged counterbalance cord on double-hung windows is one of the trickier problems to fix, since it can only be repaired by removing the sashes from the frame and disassembling it.
Painting
A well-painted finish can do wonders for your windows made of wood. It can make the windows appear new and fresh. But it also helps keep them healthy, by covering any signs of rot or other issues. Before you start painting but, ensure that the wood is completely dry. This is vital, as moisture can trigger wet rot. Utilize a wood moisture meter if you are unsure. There is a possibility of moisture even if the timber appears and feels dry to the touch, therefore it is crucial to know whether your window frames are susceptible to wet rot.
Before painting, upvc windows repairs near me is recommended to clean the entire frame with a soft damp cloth to remove any oil or grease marks. This will stop the spread of dirt and makes cleaning easier. If you have window handles, it's important to take them off and set them aside. This will make it easier to work on the frames without fear of breaking the glass.
When you are ready to begin painting, grab your clean brush and apply a thin coat of primer. This will give the surface a bit more depth and prepare it for the final coat of paint. Allow it to dry and then sand lightly using fine sandpaper to give it a smooth finish.
The first coat of paint is applied. Paint in an even, thin layer. Once the paint has dried, sand down the surface once more gently prior to applying the second coat.
Repeat this process until your window is the color and finish you want. Be aware that you might need to repaint your windows made of timber about every 6-10 years, depending on their location and the amount of sunlight they get. A regular maintenance schedule is a good idea to ensure that they remain in good condition and performing as long as is possible.