14 Questions You Shouldn't Be Insecure To Ask About Repair Timber Windows
How to Repair Timber Windows
Timber windows are a gorgeous feature that can really make a home stand out. However, over time and exposure to extreme conditions, they may begin to fade.
Repairs are cheaper than replacing window frames. This will save you money, and your home will keep its original look.
Repairing rotten wood
Wooden window frames are exposed to the elements throughout the year and are usually one of the first places of a house to show signs of damp and damage. Luckily, many instances of decayed timber are repairable and can be treated quickly. The key is to spot the problem and address it before it gets worse, or even more damage can occur.
It is crucial to determine the extent of the rot and decide whether it's repairable. Start by conducting a thorough inspection of the exterior, looking for damaged roof tiles, slates, blocked rain gutters, and a faulty damp-proof course (DPC). Also, you should check the inside of the house including basements and cellars as well as the joists' ends on a non-cavity wall.
When you've located the area that is affected by rot, it's important to get rid of as much rotten timber as possible. This will lessen the damage and make the repairs easier. The next step is to use a pry bar or clawed hammer to remove as much of the rotten timber as you can. It can be difficult to do, but by pushing the clawed edge against the healthy board and putting the pry bar in the corner, you will be able create enough leverage to free the old wood.
When you remove the rotten wood Make sure you leave a gap between the two. This will stop moisture from leaking into the wood and causing damage to the timbers around the gap. To minimize the risk of leaks and damage it is important to eliminate any nails or debris from the affected area.
Wood filler or epoxy can be used to fix the remaining boards after removing the rotten wood. This is an easy and affordable method of repair of wood rot on timber windows, and can be easily sanded and painted to match the existing frame.
If the rot is serious, it may be cheaper to replace the entire window frame, particularly in the case of a long-term fix that will prevent further moisture penetration. It's also a good idea to call an expert wood window repair service to see what options are available for you.
Splicing or scarfing in
Timber windows are a great choice for older homes and listed buildings, but can also be used in new construction. While they're more expensive, they offer long-term benefits and add value.
They are very robust and can be cut to any size. They are also simple to retrofit and provide excellent thermal performance. They require periodic maintenance, including painting.
There are two main types of timber: hardwoods and softwoods. Hardwoods are broad-leafed deciduous trees with complex cellular structures. This provides them with good stability in terms of size. Softwoods however, come from coniferous or needle-leafed trees. They have a simpler cellular structure.
Traditional structural joints in timber frames were created by mortice and Tenons, also known as comb joints. These joints are secured by nailing or pinning into place and are not joined using adhesive. Water can easily pass between the sections of timber and cause rot or staining. Poor workmanship can contribute to this. For example fixings that are exposed or not properly punched in could allow moisture to penetrate the frame. This could lead to water deposits and rust stains on the window board in the event that it is allowed to happen.
Replacing timber sash windows with uPVC is not a common option, particularly for listed and historic buildings, as they betray the integrity of the building. Furthermore, uPVC windows have a short lifespan and end up as landfill.
Modern timbers such as Accoya and Red Grandis are treated and impregnated to ensure that they are resistant to the effects of weather conditions and insects. These windows can last a lifetime if they're painted and maintained properly. They can also be fitted with burglar-proof glass which increases the force required to open the window and makes it more difficult to smash.
While replacing timber sash windows using uPVC may be cheaper initially however, it is not a feasible option for historic or listed buildings, as it could damage the integrity of the building and violate planning permission. Furthermore, uPVC can be very drafty and have a short time before they begin to degrade and need replacement.
Filling in cracks or splinters
If they are treated with the proper care and attention timber windows can be in service for many years. They can enhance a building's aesthetics, offer decorative features and serve their primary function of keeping a property safe, dry and warm. As with everything they are prone to wear and damage. It is important to treat them and repaired when this happens.
Wood decay is the most frequent issue that can affect windows made of timber and it's more than the case of replacing damaged parts. When the frame is damaged by rot, it could be a difficult repair. It's important to check your windows made of timber regularly, especially before the winter months. They can be particularly damaged by the freezing temperatures and pounding rain.
It's crucial to know the condition of frames and any areas that are severely damaged when a window is removed. This will help you save time and money as the restoration process will be much easier. It can also reduce the expense of replacing a whole window.
If you're looking to replace a damaged piece of a wooden window it is always better to splice or scarf in an entirely new piece of wood that is seasoned than to try to repair the existing one. This can be done by cutting the damaged area to a minimum of 5cm above the point of rot, or by removing the entire window sash before splicing in a new piece of wood.
The final step is to treat the wood with an anti-microbial. This will stop moisture from entering the wood, which could cause it to decay and weaken the structure of the frame. It is essential to paint your windows regularly in the event that you don't intend to treat them.
In the majority of cases, windows made of wood that are in need of repairs can be repaired by the handy DIYer. However, if the internal linings or sashes are damaged, it could be necessary to dismantle the window and re-build them. A damaged counterbalance cord on double-hung windows is among the trickier problems to fix, since it can only be repaired by taking the sashes out of the frame and disassembling it.
Painting
A good paint job can do wonders for windows made of timber. It can make the windows appear fresh and new. However, it can also keep them in good health by covering any issues with rot or any other. Before you paint but, ensure that the wood is completely dry. This is crucial, since moisture can cause wet rot. If you are not sure, try a wood moisture meter to test the moisture content of the timber. Even it feels and looks dry, moisture can still be present. It is crucial to know how to tell whether your window frames are suffering from wet rot.
Before painting, upvc windows repairs near me 's an excellent idea to wipe over the whole frame with a soft, damp cloth and then remove any oil or grease marks. This will ensure that you don't just scratch the dirt and will make cleaning easier. If you have window handles, it is important to take them off and set them away. This will make it easier to work with the frames, without worrying about breaking the glass.
Apply a thin layer of primer with a dry, clean brush when you are ready. This will give your surface more depth and prepare it for the final coat of paint. Allow it to dry, and then sand gently using fine sandpaper to give it an even finish.
It is then time to apply the first coat of paint. Again, make sure you paint in a thin layer and evenly over all areas. Once the paint is dry, sand the surface again gently before applying the second coat.
Repeat this procedure until your window has the colour and finish you desire. Be aware that you could need to repaint timber windows approximately every 6-10 years depending on their location and the amount of sunlight they receive. A regular maintenance schedule is a great way to ensure that they remain in good condition and performing as long as possible.