How to Repair Timber Windows
Timber windows can be a stunning feature of a home. They are susceptible to decay in time, particularly if they are exposed to harsh weather conditions.
Repairs are much more cost-effective than replacing window frames. This will help you save money, and the property retains its original style.
Repairing rotten wood
Window frames made of wood are constantly exposed to the elements and are among of the first parts of a home to be damaged and damp. Fortunately, a lot of instances of rotten wood are repairable and can be treated quickly. The key is to spot the issue and act before it worsens, or worse damage may occur.
Initially, it's essential to determine the extent of the rot and determine whether or not it is salvable. A thorough exterior inspection is usually a good place to begin, examining for damaged slates or tiles on the roof or gutters that are blocked, as well as damaged damp proof course (DPC). Also, you should check the interior of the home including the cellars and basements and the joists' ends on a non-cavity wall.
After you've identified the part that has been affected by rot, it's important to eliminate as much rotten timber as you can. This will lessen the amount of damage and help in completing the rest of the repair work. The next step is to employ a pry bar or clawed hammer to remove as much of the decayed timber as you can. It isn't easy to accomplish however by pushing the clawed end of the hammer against the healthy board and putting the pry bar in the corner it will create enough leverage to free the old wood.
When you are removing the decayed timber, ensure that you leave an open space between the two. This will stop moisture from entering the gap and causing further damage to the timbers around it. To minimise the risk of leaks and further damage It is recommended to remove any nails or debris from the affected area.
After removing as much of the rotten timber as you can, the remaining boards can be repaired with epoxy or wood filler. This is an easy and inexpensive method of repairing wood rot in windows made of wood, and they can be easily sanded and then painted to match the existing frame.
If the rot is severe it might be cheaper to replace the entire window frame, especially when you're looking for a long-term solution that will stop further moisture penetration. You might also want to contact a professional wood window repair service to find out what options are available to you.
Splicing or scarfing
Timber windows are a fantastic choice for period homes and listed structures, but they can be utilized in new construction. Although they are more expensive, they offer 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 excellent thermal performance. However, they require regular maintenance - particularly painting.
Softwoods and hardwoods are the two main categories of wood. Hardwoods are broad-leafed deciduous species with a complex cellular structure. This provides them with excellent stability in terms of dimensions. Softwoods are, on the other hand, come from coniferous or needle-leafed trees. They have a simpler cellular structure.
Traditionally, structural joints within timber frames were formed by mortice and tenons, or the comb joint. These joints are secured by nailing or pinning into place, but are not bonded with adhesive. Water can easily flow between timber sections, causing rot or staining. Poor workmanship can contribute to this. For example fixings that are exposed or inadequately punched in can cause moisture to penetrate the frame. If this is allowed to occur it can lead to water deposits and rust staining on window boards.
Replacing timber sash windows with uPVC is not a common choice, especially for listed and historic buildings, as they undermine the integrity of the building. uPVC is also a cheap material with a limited lifespan. It ends up in landfill.
Modern timbers like Accoya and Red Grandis are impregnated and treated, so 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 fitted with burglar proof glazing which increases the force required to open the windows and makes them more difficult to break.
While replacing timber sash using uPVC is at first cheaper however, it's not a good option for listed or period homes as it can damage the integrity of the building and also breach the planning permission. uPVC is also draughty and it has a short life before it has to be replaced.
Filling in cracks or splinters
If you take care of your wood windows, they'll last for many years. They can improve the aesthetics of a building, provide decorative elements, and serve their most important function in keeping the building warm and dry. As with everything they are subject to wear and tear. It is essential to take care of them and repaired when this happens.
Wood decay is the most frequent issue that can affect windows made of timber and doors, and it's not just a case of replacing rotten parts. Once the frame is damaged by rot it can be a challenge to repair. It's important to check your windows made of timber frequently, particularly before winter. They can be particularly damaged by the frigid temperatures and heavy rain.
It is important to observe the condition of frames as well as any areas that are badly damaged when a window is removed. This can help save time and money in the long term as it'll make the restoration process much easier. You can save money by not needing to replace the entire window.
If you want to replace a damaged part of a timber windows it is always advisable to splice or scarf in the new piece of seasoned wood instead of trying to repair the old one. This can be done either by cutting out the damage to at least 5cm over the point of rot, or by removing the entire window sash before splicing in a new piece of wood.
The final step is treating the wood with a preservative. This will stop moisture from getting into the wood which can cause it to rot and weaken its structure. It is essential to paint your windows regularly in the event that you don't intend to treat them.
In most 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 might be necessary to dismantle the window and rebuild them. One of the most difficult issues to fix is a broken counterbalance rope on double-hung windows because they can only be replaced by taking off the sashes and disassembling the frame.
Painting
A well-painted finish can do wonders for timber windows. It can make windows look new and fresh. But it can also keep them in good health by covering any signs of rot or other issues. Before you paint however, ensure that the wood is dry. This is vital, as moisture can cause wet rot. Use a wood moisture meter in case you are not sure. There is a possibility of moisture even if the timber appears and appears dry to the touch, therefore it is crucial to know whether your window frames are still susceptible to wet rot.
It is a good idea to clean the entire frame with a moist, soft cloth prior to beginning painting. This will get rid of any grease or oils marks. This will ensure that you don't smear the dirt around and can make cleaning much easier. If upvc window repairs have window handles, it's worthwhile to remove them and put them away. This will make it easier to work on the frames without worrying about breaking the glass.
When you are ready begin painting, use your clean brush and apply a thin layer of primer. This will give your surface a little more depth and help 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 applied. Be sure to paint in thin layers and cover all areas equally. Once the paint has dried, sand down the surface again gently before applying the second coat.
Repeat this process until you are satisfied with the colour and finish of your window. It is possible to paint your windows made of timber every 6 to 10 years, based on where they are located and the amount of sunlight they get. Regular maintenance is the best method to ensure that your windows made of timber look and function to their best for as long as you can.