How to Properly Maintain and Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows are a stunning feature of many old buildings. If they aren't regularly painted and properly maintained they may be damaged and stop functioning properly.

It is possible to fix damaged wood in wooden window frames. It is quite simple with the proper methods. There are many different rot treatments available, some being more efficient than others.

Verify the overall condition

The timber windows will degrade as time passes due to exposure to the elements, and also the damp in your home. If left unchecked this can result in rotting of the timber which is not a good thing.

If you find that your windows made of timber have become damaged it's important that you act quickly. In the absence of action, timber rot can result in it worsening in time, particularly when the winter weather arrives. Even if your timber windows are in poor condition it is still possible to repair them. You'll have to invest some extra time and effort.

It is crucial to think about different repair methods are suitable for different situations when assessing the overall condition of the window. For instance, splicing fresh timber is an effective way to repair rotten sections of your window frame made of timber. However, this method is only recommended if the rotten section of your window not too large. If the rotten part of your emergency Window Repair is very large it is possible to replace the entire sash.

It is first necessary to examine your windows made of wood. You must look for signs of rot and damp as well as damage to the frame and sills. If you're not sure what to look for, you can request a professional to carry out a full inspection of your timber windows.

Make sure you wear sturdy gloves for work as splintered and cracked windows can be hazardous. It is also recommended to have a ladder and someone who can help you steady the ladder.

One of the main reasons why timber windows start to deteriorate is that they're exposed to damp that penetrates your property. Permeating moisture can cause your windows to decay and cause more serious issues such as wet or dry decay. It is essential to have your timber windows repaired when you notice that they are impacted by the penetration of moisture. 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 sturdy and durable but they need to be maintained regularly. They may deteriorate and lose their function if you don't. This could lead to rotting, mould growth and the need for repairs.

A good place to start cleaning your timber window frames is to wipe them down with a damp cloth and a washing liquid. This will eliminate any dirt or dust that has built up on the frame. If there are any stubborn marks or stains that aren't going away then you can apply a soft bristle with a small amount of water and a washing up liquid to gently scrub them off.

Also, you should clean the glass panes and handles and hinges. Once the frames are cleaned, you can start any repairs or renovations. If the hinges are loosened or the silicone around them is beginning to pull away from the frame, it is best to fix this as soon as possible.

Once the repair or filler is dry, it's essential to give everything a light sand prior to painting. This will help to smooth the surface and create a uniform appearance. It is recommended to use a wood varnish or stain that is designed specifically for windows made of wood. They will give you the best protection and finish.

It's also recommended to apply a waterproof sealant to the edges of your windows made of timber after they've been sanded and painted. This will prevent moisture from getting in and causing damage to the wood in time.

When the window is fully cleaned, it's time to paint. It's a good idea paint on a clear day with no wind or rain in the forecast. It's also important to ensure that you're using a high-quality exterior-grade paint or stain that is suitable for timber. After the paint has dried it is recommended to lightly sand it using a fine sandpaper. Then, remove any dust to ensure that your windows look great.

Fill any cracks

Water penetration can cause rot to the wood of timber windows. This is why it's essential to maintain paint maintenance - cracked and blistered paint allows water to enter and accelerates the deterioration. This is particularly true in winter when the water freezes and forces wood fibres apart which can cause rot and warping. Modern timbers, such as Accoya do not expand or shrink as much, and coatings designed to cope with these conditions will ensure that your windows a long life.

It is also crucial to fill any cracks in your frames right away, as ignoring them will cause the development of rot. Use a filler designed for exterior use to fix any splinters, flakes, or small splits you may notice in your frames. Apply it generously to the affected area. This will not only help to seal in moisture, but also help to strengthen your frame.

In certain situations, it may be required to replace a piece of the frame due to rot or damage. This can be done by an experienced carpenter who will take out the damaged piece, treat it and then connect the new piece of seasoned timber in a similar way. It is a good idea to have the new splice treated with dry rot treatment prior to when it is put into the window to stop further rotting, and to add strength to the existing frame.

After the splice has been glued and left to be set, it is now possible to sand the repaired area down to its original form making sure it's flush with the surrounding frame. It is beneficial to have different grades of sandpaper available, ranging from coarse to smoother for the final finish.

It is important to remember that timber windows are much more costly to repair than their plastic or metal counterparts. It's important to check the overall condition prior to taking on any major work. If you notice a lot of rot in the frame, it's probably best to replace the entire frame instead of attempt to repair and re-glaze each component.

Paint

Timber windows give character, style and charm to older properties They can also bring an old-fashioned look to modern homes. They are thought to be more appealing than uPVC and aluminum windows. However they require more care as the wood is more prone to damage. If left unattended, timber casement or windows made of sash can degrade quickly and eventually have to be replaced. Regular painting and maintenance can help prolong the lifespan of your wooden windows.

Firstly, you'll need to strip the old paint. A power stripper is usually suggested, Emergency window Repair but you can employ a paint scraper or a wire brush as well. After the paint is removed, you will need to sand down the wood. This will give smoothness and will ensure that any dampness is not absorbed into the timber and leading to decay.

After the sanding has been completed, it's time to paint. It is best to paint on a sunny, dry day to allow the paint to dry quickly. Start by working your way through the entire frame of your window beginning with the most difficult to reach spots. Be careful not to touch the sash or sill area, as it can cause the peeling of the oil-based putty.

You'll need to leave the sill and sash area to dry for at least 2 weeks - the ideal is a month. If you hurry through this step, the putty won't set and your window will be less durable.

While you wait for the sill and sash to dry, it's worth checking all the hardware. Pay special attention to the hinges and lock levers and the pulls for lifting. To ensure they function properly, you'll require realignment and oiling. It's also an excellent idea to repair any joints that have come loose, and then use a strong external-grade adhesive on new joints.

Replacing windows made of wood is a major task and costly, so it's important to take into consideration the condition of your existing timber frames prior to investing in replacements. Renovation might be the best option if you see signs of wear and tear or decaying timber. While it is costly, the cost is far less than replacing all your windows.