Repair Timber Windows Explained In Fewer Than 140 Characters
How to Properly Maintain and Repair Timber Windows
Many old buildings have gorgeous windows made of timber. But, if not taken care of properly and painted regularly, they may be damaged and stop functioning correctly.
It is possible to repair damaged wood in wooden window frames and it is easy to do so using the correct techniques. There are a variety of methods for treating rot, some more effective than others.
Check the Overall Condition
As time passes, windows made of timber will begin to deteriorate due to exposure to the elements and damp in your home. If left unchecked this can cause rot in the timber - and that's not good.
If you discover that your timber windows have begun to deteriorate, it's imperative that you act quickly. The delay in addressing rotted timber will make it worse, particularly when winter arrives. Fortunately, it's not impossible to repair timber windows even if they're in bad condition. You'll need some time and effort.
It's important to consider that different repair techniques are suitable for different scenarios when assessing the general condition of windows. Repairing rotten timber sections in your window frame can be done by splicing fresh timber into the frame. However, this is only recommended if the damaged part of your window is not too large. If the area that is rotten in your window is huge it may be necessary to replace the entire sash.
The first thing you'll have to do is to examine the condition of your wood windows. You should look for indications of damp, rot and damage to the sills or frame. If you're not sure of what to look for, you can ask a professional to conduct a thorough inspection of your timber windows.
Be sure to wear thick gloves for work because splintered and cracked windows can be hazardous. You should also have a ladder and someone to help you steady the ladder.
One of the primary reasons why timber windows begin to degrade is that they're exposed to damp that penetrates your home. Penetrating moisture can cause windows to rot and cause more serious issues like wet or dry decay. If you think that your timber windows are suffering from penetrating damp it is essential to get them repaired as soon as you can. This will not only help to prevent further damage to your timber windows but it also helps protect your home from damp and rot.
Clean the Frames
Timber windows are strong and durable, however they need to be cleaned and maintained regularly. They can deteriorate and lose their effectiveness if you do not. This can lead to rot to grow, mould, and the need for repairs.
The best way to begin cleaning your wooden window frames is to clean them with a damp cloth and a washing liquid. This will get rid of any dirt or dust that has accumulated on the frame. If there are stubborn marks or stains that will not go away then use a soft brush with a small amount of water and washing liquid to gently scrub the area.
Also, you should clean any glass panes and also the handles and hinges. When the frames are clean then you can begin to do any repairs or modifications you may need to make. If your hinges are loose or the silicone around them is pulling away from the frame, it is best to fix this as soon as you can.
Once any repair or filler is dry, it's essential to give it an even sanding before painting. This will smooth the surface, and give it a uniform appearance. It is recommended to use a stain or varnish made of wood specifically designed for windows made of wood. These will provide the best protection and finish.
After your windows made of timber have been sanded and painted, it's recommended to seal the edges with a waterproof sealant. This will stop moisture from getting inside and causing damage to the wood in time.
It's time to start painting the window after it's been completely sanded. It's a good idea do this on a clear day when there's no rain or wind in the forecast. You should also use a quality exterior-grade stain or paint that's suitable for wood. Once the paint is dry, you should lightly sand it using some fine sandpaper and then clean away any dust to ensure that your windows look great.
Fill Any Cracks
The wood used in the construction of timber windows naturally expands and contracts according to the temperature, however this can be made worse due to factors like water penetration, which can cause the wood to rot. It is therefore important to maintain the paint. Cracked or blistered paint allows water to enter, which accelerates deterioration. This is especially true in winter when the water gets frozen and pulls wood fibres apart which can cause warping and rot. Utilizing upvc door repairs as Accoya (which does not expand and contract as much) and coatings that are designed to handle this, will provide you with longevity from your windows.
Filling any cracks or splinters that are present in your frames is vital because rotting can happen when you do not take care of them. If you find any splinters, flakes, or small slits in your frames, it is recommended to use a filler specifically made for use on the outside, and apply it liberally on the affected area. This will not only stop moisture but will also help to strengthen your frame.
In some instances, it might be necessary for a section of the frame to be replaced because of rot. A skilled carpenter can replace the section of damaged timber with a new well-seasoned, fully-seasoned piece. It is a good idea that the new splice be treated with a dry-rot treatment prior to being put into the frame. This will prevent further rotting, and will add strength to the frame.
Once the splice is joined and left to dry after which you can sand the repaired area back to its original shape. Be sure it is flush with the surrounding frame. This is where it could be helpful to have a range of types of sandpaper available starting with a coarse grade to an easier one for the final finish.
Keep in mind that wood windows are more costly to fix than those in plastic or metal. It is important to look for damage before undertaking major work. If you find a significant amount of decay, it's probably best to consider replacing the entire frame rather than attempting to repair and re-glue the parts.
Paint
Timber windows can give character, charm and style to older properties, or can bring a rustic look to modern windows. They are generally thought to be more attractive than uPVC or aluminium windows however they require more care because the natural wood is susceptible to damage and also react with different weather conditions in a sporadic way. If left unattended timber windows, including sash windows, can deteriorate quite rapidly and may eventually require replacement. Regular painting and maintenance can prolong the life of your timber windows.
Firstly, you'll need to strip the old paint. You can also make use of an electric brush or a paint scraper. After the paint is removed, it is time to sand the wood. This will give the wood a smoother finish and prevent dampness from getting into the wood and cause it to rot.
After the sanding has been completed, it's time to begin painting. It is best to paint on a dry, sunny day so that the paint can dry quickly. Start with the hard-to-reach areas and work your way around the entire window frame. When you reach the sash and sill area make sure you don't contact it, because this could cause the oil-based glue to peel away.
The sash and sill areas should be left to dry for at least 2 weeks, but it is best to leave it for at least a whole month. If you rush this process then the putty won't set and your window won't be as durable.
While you wait for the sash and sill to dry it is worth having a look at all the hardware, particularly the hinges, lock levers and lift pulls. You'll have to adjust and lubricate these in order to make sure they work properly. Re-glue any joints that are loose and use an adhesive of high strength for exterior use on the new joinery.
Replacing windows made of wood is a big undertaking and expensive, so it's important to consider the condition of your existing frames before investing in replacements. If you see the signs of wear and tear, or the timber is beginning to rot, then renovation may be the best option. It can still be costly however, it's far cheaper than the total cost of replacing your current windows.