How to Properly Maintain and Repair Timber Windows
Many old buildings have gorgeous windows made of timber. If they are not regularly painted and maintained they may be damaged and stop functioning properly.
The right methods can help you repair damaged timber in window sash repairs frames. There are a number of different treatments for rotting available with some of them being more efficient than others.
Examine the overall condition
Timber windows will deteriorate over time because of exposure to the elements, and damp in your home. If left unchecked, this could lead directly to timber rot.
If you discover that your windows made of wood have begun to deteriorate, it’s imperative to act fast. The delay in addressing rotted timber will make it worse over time especially when winter arrives. Even if your timber windows are in bad shape, you can still repair them. You’ll need a little more time and effort.
It’s important to consider that different repair methods are suitable for different situations when assessing the overall condition of the window. For instance, splicing fresh timber is a great method of door repairing rotten sections of your window frame. However, this is only recommended if the rotten part of your window is not too large. If the area that is rotten in your window is very large it may be necessary to replace the entire sash.
It is first necessary to examine your windows made of timber. You should look for signs of rot and damp and damage to the sills and frame. If you’re not sure of what to look for, ask a professional to conduct a thorough inspection of your window frames.
Wear gloves that are thick when doing this. Broken or splintered windows glass can be dangerous. It’s recommended to keep a ladder in your bag and someone to help steady it.
One of the main reasons why timber windows start to deteriorate is because they’re exposed to penetrating damp inside your home. Permeating damp could cause your timber windows to decay, which can cause serious problems such as dry or wet rot. If you suspect that your windows made of timber are being affected by damp penetrating them it is essential to repair them as soon as possible. This will not only help to keep from further damage to your timber windows, but it will also protect the rest of your home from damp and rot.
Cleaning the Frames
Timber windows are strong and durable but they need to be maintained regularly. They are susceptible to deterioration and loss of their function if you don’t. This could cause rotting, mould growth and the need for repair upvc door work.
To begin cleaning your timber window frames, apply a damp cloth with some washing liquid. This will help to get rid of any dust and dirt that have accumulated on the frame. If there are marks or stains that aren’t going away then use a soft brush with a little water and washing liquid to gently scrub the area.
Also, you should clean the glass panes and handles and hinges. Once the frames are cleaned, you can start any repairs or renovations. For instance, if your hinges are loose or the silicone surrounding them is beginning to separate the silicone around them, it should be fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
After the splice or filler has dried, it’s essential to lightly sand the surface before painting. This will help smooth the surface and give it an even appearance. It’s recommended that you make use of a wood stain or varnish that has been specifically designed for timber double glazing windows repair as they provide the highest quality finish and provide protection.
It’s also an excellent idea to apply a waterproof sealant on the edges of your windows made of timber once they have been sanded and painted. This will prevent moisture from getting in and damaging the wood over time.
It’s time to paint the window glass repairs after it’s been completely sanded. This is best done on a day when there is no wind or rain forecast. It’s also important to ensure that you’re using a high-quality exterior-grade stain or paint that’s suitable for wood. After the paint has dried you can lightly sand the paint with fine sandpaper, and then clean off any dust.
Fill any cracks
The wood in timber windows naturally expands and contracts according to the temperature, however this can be made worse by elements like water penetration, which leads to decay. This is why it is essential to maintain paint maintenance – cracked and blistered paint allows water in which accelerates the process of deterioration. This is particularly true in the winter months when water freezes and causes the breakdown of wood fibres, which can cause warping and decay. Modern timbers like Accoya (which doesn’t expand and contract as much) and coatings designed to handle this, will provide you with longevity from your windows.
Filling any cracks or splinters in your frames is vital, as rotting can occur if you ignore them. If you find any splinters, flakes, or small splits in your frames, it is best to apply a filler that has been designed for exterior use, and apply it liberally on the affected area. This will not only seal out water, but also strengthen your frame.
In certain situations it might be required to replace a piece of the frame due to rot or damage. A skilled carpenter can replace the piece of damaged timber with a brand new well-seasoned, fully-seasoned piece. It is recommended to allow the new splice be treated by a dry-rot treatment prior being inserted into the frame. This will prevent further rotting and 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. Make sure that it is in line with the surrounding frame. This is why it can be helpful to keep various grades of sandpaper on hand starting with an extremely coarse grade to more smoother to finish the job.
It is important to remember that wooden windows are quite costly to repair than their plastic and metal counterparts, so it’s essential to assess the overall condition before making any major changes. If you find a significant amount of rot, it’s best to consider replacing the entire frame, rather than trying to repair or re-glue individual components.
Paint
Timber windows provide style, character and appeal to older buildings They can also bring a cottage-style feel to newer homes. They are generally thought to be more attractive than uPVC or aluminium windows however, they require more care as the natural wood is susceptible to damage and also react with different weather conditions in an unpredictable manner. If left unattended, timber sash and casement windows are susceptible to deterioration and will eventually need replacing. Regular painting and maintenance can prolong the life of your windows made of timber.
In the beginning, you’ll have to strip the old paint. A power stripper is usually recommended, but you can make use of an old-fashioned paint scraper or wire brush as well. Once all the paint has been removed, you’ll need to sand the wood down. This will allow for smooth finish and also help prevent any dampness getting into the timber and leading to the wood to rot.
After the sanding process, it’s time to begin painting. Ideally, you’ll want to paint during a sunny and dry day, so that the paint will dry quickly. Start with the areas that are difficult to reach and then work your way through the entire frame of your window. Be careful not to get your hands on the sash or sill area, as it can cause the oil based putty peel off.
The sill and sash areas should be allowed to dry for a minimum of 2 weeks, but it is best to leave it for at least a whole month. If you rush through this step the putty won’t be able to dry and your window will become less durable.
While you wait for the sill and sash to dry, you should be inspecting all the hardware. Be sure to pay attention to the hinges and lock levers and the lift pulls. To ensure that they function properly, you’ll require realignment and lubrication. Re-glue any joints that are loose and use a strong exterior grade adhesive on new joinery.
Replacing timber windows is a major project and costly It is therefore important to take into consideration the condition of your current timber frames prior to investing in replacements. Renovation is a good option if you see significant wear and repairing Doors tear or decaying timber. It’s still expensive, but it is much less than the full cost of replacing your current windows.
