Five Things Everyone Makes Up On The Subject Of Repair Timber Windows
How to Repair Timber Windows
Timber windows are a gorgeous feature that can really make a home stand out. They are susceptible to decay over time, especially when they are exposed to extreme weather conditions.
Repairs are much more cost-effective than replacing window frames. This will save you money and will also help the building keep its charm.
Repairing rotten wood
Window frames made of wood are constantly exposed to the elements and are often one of the first components of a home that exhibit signs of damage and damp. Fortunately, a lot of instances of rotten wood can be repaired and dealt with quickly. The key is to spot the issue and act before it gets worse or even more damage can occur.
It's important to first assess the extent of rot, and determine if it is able to be salvaged. Start by conducting a thorough inspection from the outside, looking for damaged roof tiles, slates, blocked rain gutters, and a deficient damp-proof course (DPC). It is also a good idea to check the inside of the property including basements and cellars and joists that end in non-cavity walls.
After you've identified the part that is affected by rot, it's important to remove as much rotten timber as you can. This will minimize the damage and make the rest of the repairs much easier. The next step is to make use of a pry bar, or a clawed hammer to try and prise away as much of the decayed timber as you can. This can be a bit difficult however, if you insert the clawed end of the pry bar into the corner and pressing it against the healthy board you should be able to create enough leverage to break the old timber.
Make sure you leave a clear space between the timbers when you remove the rotten wood. This will stop moisture from getting into the gap and cause further damage to the timbers around it. It is also important to remove any nails and other debris from the affected area to limit the chance of future leaks and damage.
After getting rid of as much rotten timber as you can be able to, the remaining timber can be repaired using wood filler or epoxy. This is a fairly inexpensive and easy way to repair wood rot on timber windows. It can be sanded and painted to match the existing frame.
If the rot is serious, it could be more cost-effective to replace the whole window frame, especially when you're looking for a long-term fix that will stop further water infiltration. It's also a good idea to call an expert timber window repair service to determine what options are available to you.
Splicing or scarfing in
Timber windows are a great choice for period homes and listed buildings, but they can be utilized in new construction. Although they cost more, they offer long-term benefits and increase value.
They are extremely durable and can be manufactured to any size. They are also easy to retrofit and offer superior thermal performance. However, they do require regular maintenance - especially painting.
There are two main categories of timber: hardwoods and softwoods. Hardwoods are deciduous broad-leafed trees with a complex cellular structure. This provides them with good stability in terms of size. Softwoods however are coniferous or needle-leafed trees. They have a less complex cellular structure.
Traditionally, structural joints within timber frames were created by mortice and tenons, or the comb joint. These joints are pinned or nailed in place and are not bonded with adhesive. Water can easily get between the sections of timber and cause rot, or staining. upvc windows repairs near me can be a contributing factor. For instance fixings that are not covered or not properly punched in could allow moisture to penetrate the frame. This can cause rust stains and water deposits on the window boards in the event that it is allowed to develop.
It is not recommended to replace the existing timber sash windows with uPVC especially in historic or listed buildings. This could compromise the integrity of the structure. uPVC is also a low-quality product with a short lifespan. It is disposed of in landfill.
Modern timbers, such as Accoya or Red Grandis are treated with a special treatment that makes them resistant to the elements and pests. They can last a lifetime if they are maintained and painted properly. They can be fitted with burglar proof glass which increases the force required to open the windows and makes them more difficult to break.
While replacing timber sash using uPVC is initially cheaper but it isn't an ideal option for listed or period homes because it will damage the integrity of the building and also violate the planning permission. uPVC is also draughty and it has a short life before it is required to be replaced.
Filling in cracks and splinters
If you take care of your wood windows, they'll last for many years. They can improve a building's aesthetic, provide decoration, and fulfill their most important function of keeping a home safe, dry and warm. As with all things, they could be susceptible to wear and tear and when this happens it is essential to treat them and get restored.
Wood rot can be a major problem for timber windows. It's not enough to fix the damaged pieces. If frames are damaged by rot, it could be difficult to repair. It is essential to inspect your timber windows regularly, especially before the winter months. The pounding cold and rain can be particularly harsh on windows, increasing the risk of moisture penetration.
It's crucial to know the condition of frames and any areas that are severely damaged when windows are taken apart. This will help you save time and money in the long run because it makes the repair process much more straightforward. You can save money by not needing to replace the entire window.
If you are looking to replace damaged parts of a timber windows, it is always advisable to scarf in or splice a new piece seasoned wood rather than attempting to repair the existing one. This can be done by cutting the damage to a minimum of 5cm above the point of rot or by removing the entire sash and splicing in an entirely new piece of wood.
The final step is to treat the wood with a preservative. This will prevent moisture from entering the wood, which could cause it rot and weaken its structure. It is crucial to paint your windows regularly in the event that you don't intend to treat them.
The majority of timber windows can be repaired with a handy DIYer. However, if the internal linings or sashes are damaged, it could be necessary to remove the window to rebuild them. One of the more difficult problems to fix is a damaged counterbalance rope on double-hung windows since they can only be replaced by taking off the sashes and disassembling the frame.
Painting
A well-painted finish can improve the appearance of your windows made of timber. It can make windows appear new and fresh. However, it can also keep them in good health by covering any signs of rot or other issues. Before you begin painting, though, make sure the wood is completely dry. This is crucial, since moisture can trigger wet rot. If you are not sure, use a wood moisture meter to determine the moisture content of the timber. Moisture may still be present even if the wood appears and appears dry to the touch, so it is important to know how to spot if your window frames are still susceptible to wet rot.
Before painting, it is an excellent idea to clean the entire frame with a soft, damp cloth and remove any oil or grease marks. This will prevent the spread of dirt and make cleaning much easier. If you have window handles, it's worth removing them and putting them aside. This will make it much easier to work on the frames without fear of breaking the glass.
If you are ready to begin painting, use your clean brush and apply a thin layer 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 gently with sandpaper that is fine to give it an even finish.
The first coat of paint is now applied. Again, make sure you apply the paint in a thin layer and evenly cover all areas. Once the paint has dried then sand it lightly and then apply the second coat.
Repeat this process until you're happy with the colour and appearance of your window. It's possible that you need to re-paint your timber windows every 6-10 year, depending on where they are located and the amount of sunlight they receive. Having a regular maintenance plan is a great way to keep them looking and performing as long as is possible.