How to Repair Timber Windows
Timber windows are a beautiful feature that can really make a home stand out. However, with the passage of time and exposure to harsh weather conditions, they can begin to fade.
Rather than replacing timber window frames, it's much better to carry out repairs. This will save money and help the home keep its original look.
Repairing rotten wood
Wooden window frames are constantly exposed to the elements and are one of the first parts of a home that show signs of damage and damp. Luckily, many cases of rotten timber can be repaired and treated quickly. It is important to identify the problem and address it as soon as you can. Otherwise, it can worsen.
It is crucial to first determine the extent of rot, and then determine if it can be salvaged. A thorough external survey is usually a good place to begin, examining for damaged roof tiles or slates, blocked guttering, and damaged damp proof course (DPC). It is also recommended to inspect the inside of the home including basements and cellars, and joist ends in non-cavity walls.
As soon as you have identified the area that is affected by decay, it is crucial to remove the rotten wood as quickly as you can. This will lessen the damage and make the repairs simpler. Next, make use of a clawed hammer, or pry bar to get rid of as much wood that is rotting as feasible. It can be difficult to do however, by pressing the clawed end against the healthy wood and then inserting the pry bar in the corner, you will be able generate enough leverage to lift the old wood.
Be sure to leave a clear gap between the woods when you are removing the decayed wood. This will stop moisture from entering and causing further damage to the timbers in the gap. It's also worth removing any nails or other debris from the affected area to minimise the risk of further leaks and damage.
Epoxy or wood filler can be used to repair the remaining boards after removing the rotten wood. This is a relatively affordable and simple method to repair rotted wood on timber windows. It can be sanded and painted to match the existing frame.
If the severity of the decay is extensive However, it could be more cost-effective to replace the entire window frame with a new one, particularly if you're looking for an ongoing solution that will protect against further moisture penetration. You might also want to contact a professional wood window repair service to find out what options you have.
Splicing or scarfing in
Timber windows are a great choice for period 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 extremely durable. They are also simple to retrofit and offer superior thermal performance. However, they do require regular maintenance, particularly painting.
There are two main types of timber: softwoods and hardwoods. Hardwoods originate from broad-leafed deciduous trees. They possess a very complex cellular structure that provides them good dimension stability. Softwoods however are coniferous or needle-leafed trees and have a simpler cell structure.
Traditional structural joints in timber frames were created by mortice and Tenons, or comb joints. These joints are nailed or pinched into place and are not joined using adhesive. Water can easily pass between the timber sections and cause rot, or staining. Poor craftsmanship can be a contributing factor. For instance fixings that are exposed or punched incorrectly can cause moisture to penetrate the frame. If this is allowed to happen, it can result in water deposits and rust staining on window frames.
It is not recommended to replace the existing timber sash window with uPVC, especially in historic or listed buildings. This can compromise the integrity of the structure. uPVC is also a low-quality product with a short lifespan. It ends up in the landfill.
Modern timbers, like Accoya or Red Grandis are impregnated with a specific treatment that makes them resistant to pests and weather conditions. If properly maintained and painted, these windows will provide the longest service. They can be equipped with burglar proof glass which increases the force needed to open the windows and makes them harder to smash.
While replacing timber sash with uPVC is initially cheaper but it isn't a good option for listed or period properties, as this will ruin the integrity of the structure and could infringe on planning permission. uPVC is also draughty, and it has a short life before it is required to be replaced.
Filling cracks or splinters
If you take care of your timber windows, they'll last for a long time. They can enhance the look of a building, provide decorations, and perform their primary function, which is to keep the property dry and warm. However, as with everything else, they can be prone to wear and tear, when this occurs, it is vital to treat them and get restored.
Wood rot can be an issue for timber windows. It's not enough to repair the damaged pieces. If a frame is damaged by rot, it can be very difficult to fix. That's why it's essential to perform regular inspections of your timber windows, especially before winter. They can be especially damaged by freezing temperatures and pounding rain.
It is important to observe the condition of frames as well as any areas that are severely damaged when windows are taken apart. This will help you save time and money since the process of restoration is much more straightforward. You can save money by not having to replace the entire window.
If you're looking to replace a damaged part of a window made of timber it is always better to splice or scarf in a new piece seasoned wood instead of trying to fix the damaged one. This can be achieved by either cutting away the damaged section to at least 5cm past the point of rot or by removing the entire sash and splicing it into a new piece.
The final step is to treat the wood with a preservative. This will stop moisture from getting into the wood, which could cause it rot and weaken its structure. If you don't plan to treat your windows, it's vital that you paint them on a regular basis to keep them in good shape.
In the majority of instances, windows made of timber that are in need of repairs can be repaired by the handy DIYer. However when the sashes or internal linings are broken it may be necessary to remove the window to rebuild them. A broken counterbalance cable on a double-hung windows is one of the trickier problems to fix, since it can only be fixed by taking the sashes out of the frame and disassembling it.
Painting
A well-painted finish can make a huge difference to your windows made of wood. It can give them the appearance of new and fresh, but it can also help keep them healthy by covering up any signs of rot or other issues. Before you begin painting however, ensure that the wood is completely dry. Moisture can cause wet decay. If you are not sure, try a wood moisture meter for testing the moisture content of the timber. Moisture may still be present even if the wood appears and appears dry to the touch, therefore it is crucial to know how to spot the signs that your window frames are still susceptible to wet rot.
Before you start painting, it's recommended to wipe over the whole frame with a soft moist cloth and then remove any oil or grease marks. This will ensure that you don't scratch the dirt and makes cleaning simpler. If you have window handles, it is worthwhile to remove them and put them aside. This will make it easier to work with the frames, without having to worry about breaking the glass.
Apply a thin layer of primer with a dry, clean brush once you are ready. This will give your surface more depth, and also prepare it for the final coat of paint. Let it dry and then lightly sand it using fine sandpaper for smoothness.
The first coat of paint is now applied. Paint in a thin, even layer. When the paint is dry, sand it again gently and then apply the second coat.
Repeat this process until you're happy with the colour and finish of your window. upvc window repairs near me may need to re-paint your windows made of timber every 6 to 10 years, depending on the location and how much sun they receive. Having a regular maintenance plan is a good way to ensure that they remain in good condition and functioning as long as possible.