How to Repair Timber Windows
Timber windows are a beautiful feature that can truly make a house stand out. However, with the passage of time and exposure to harsh weather conditions, they could begin to degrade.
Repairs are more cost-effective than replacing window frames. This will save you money, and your home retains its original style.
Repairing rotten wood
Window frames made of wood are exposed to the elements throughout the year and are usually one of the first areas of a home to be affected by damp and damage. Fortunately, rotten wood can be repaired and addressed quickly. The trick is to recognize the problem and take action before it gets worse or worse damage may be caused.
Initially, it's essential to assess the extent of the rot and determine whether or not it's salvageable. A thorough inspection of the exterior is a good place to begin, looking for slates or tiles that are damaged on the roof or gutters that are blocked, as well as damaged damp proof course (DPC). You should also inspect the interior of the home including basements and cellars and the joist ends on non-cavity wall.
Once you've identified the area which is affected by rot, you must to get rid of as much rotten timber as possible. This will reduce the extent of damage and make it easier to complete the rest of the repair work. The next step is to make use of a pry bar, or a clawed hammer to try and remove as much of the rotten timber as you can. This can be a challenge however, by putting the clawed end of the pry bar into the corner and rubbing it against the healthy wood you should be able to generate enough force to rip the old timber free.
When removing upvc window repair , ensure that you leave a gap between the two. This will stop moisture from entering the gap and causing damage to the surrounding timbers. It's also worth removing any nails and other debris from the affected area to minimise the risk of leaks in the future and damage.
Epoxy or wood filler can be used to repair the remaining boards after removing the decayed wood. This is an easy and affordable method of repair of wood rot on windows made of wood, and they can be easily sanded and painted to match the existing frame.
If the degree of decay is serious, however, it may be more economical to replace the entire frame with a new one especially if you're looking for an ongoing solution that will protect against further moisture penetration. You may also want to consult a professional wood window repair service to determine what options are available to you.
Splicing or scarfing
Timber windows are a classic option for older buildings and listed homes, but they can also be used to upgrade new properties. They are more expensive than uPVC however they offer long term benefits and add value to your home.
They are very durable and can be made to any size. They are also easy to retrofit and provide excellent thermal performance. They require regular maintenance, especially painting.
Softwoods and hardwoods are the two main types of wood. Hardwoods are broad-leafed deciduous trees and have an extremely complex cellular structure that gives them dimensional stability. Softwoods are composed of coniferous trees or needle-leaf trees and their cellular structure is much simpler.
Traditional timber frame structural joints were made by mortices and Tenons or comb joints. These joints are pinned or nailed to the frame and are not joined with adhesive. Over time, water ingress easily flows through the sections of timber, resulting in rot or staining. Poor workmanship can cause this. For instance, fixings that are exposed or not properly punched in could allow moisture to penetrate the frame. If this is allowed to happen it can lead to water deposits and rust staining on the window frames.
It is not recommended to replace the existing timber sash windows with uPVC, especially in historic or listed buildings. This can compromise the structural integrity of the building. uPVC is also a low-quality product with a limited lifespan. It ends up in the landfill.
Modern timbers, such as Accoya or Red Grandis are impregnated with a specific treatment to make them resistant to the elements and pests. They can last a lifetime if they're maintained and painted properly. They can be equipped with burglar-proof glass that increases the force needed to open the windows and makes them harder to smash.
While replacing timber sash with uPVC is initially cheaper but it isn't a good option for listed or period properties, as this will ruin the integrity of the structure and could violate planning permission. Additionally, uPVC can be very noisy and has a limited lifespan before they start to degrade and need replacement.
Filling in cracks or splinters
If you take care of your wood windows, they'll last for a long time. They can enhance a building's aesthetic, provide decorative features and serve their primary purpose of keeping a property warm, dry and secure. But, like all things, they can be susceptible to wear and tear and, when this occurs, it is vital to treat them and get restored.
Wood decay is the most frequent problem that can affect windows made of timber and doors, and it's not just the case of replacing damaged parts. Once a frame is damaged by rot, it can be difficult to repair. It is important to inspect your timber windows regularly, particularly prior to winter months. The pounding cold temperatures and rain can be particularly rough on them, increasing the risk of moisture penetration.
When a window is dismantled it is important to take an inventory of the condition of the frames and identifying any areas that are severely damaged. This will save you time and money as the process of restoration is much more straightforward. It could also help you avoid the expense of replacing a whole window.
If you are looking to replace a damaged part of a wooden window it is recommended to splice in or scarf in a new piece well-seasoned wood instead of trying to repair the existing one. This can be done by cutting the damaged area to a minimum of 5cm above the point of rot or by removing the whole window sash before splicing in the new piece of wood.
The final step is to treat the wood with a suitable preservative. This will stop moisture from entering the wood which can cause it to rot and weaken its structure. If you are not going to treat your windows, it is essential that you paint them regularly to keep them in good condition.
In most instances, windows made of timber that require repairs can be repaired by the handy DIYer. However in the event that the internal linings or sashes are broken it may be necessary to dismantle the window and re-build them. A broken counterbalance cable on a double-hung window is one of the trickier problems to fix since it can only be repaired by removing the sashes from the frame and disassembling it.
Painting
A well-painted finish can make a huge difference to your windows made of timber. It can make windows appear fresh and new. However, it can also keep them healthy by covering any rot or other issues. Before you paint however, ensure that the wood is completely dry. This is important, as moisture can trigger wet rot. If you're not sure, use a wood moisture meter to test the moisture content of the timber. Moisture can still be present even if the timber appears and feels dry to the touch, which is why it is important to be aware of the signs that your window frames are still susceptible to wet rot.
It is a good practice to wipe the entire frame with a damp soft cloth prior to painting. This will get rid of any grease or oils marks. This will stop you from spreading dirt and makes cleaning easier. It's also worth taking off the handles on your windows in the event that you have them and putting them on one side. This will make it easier to work on the frames without having to worry about breaking the glass.
When you are ready to begin painting, use an unclean 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. After drying, lightly sand it with fine sandpaper for a smooth finish.
It is now time to apply the first coat of paint. Paint in a thin, even layer. After the paint is dry, sand it again gently and then apply the second coat.
Repeat this procedure until your window has the desired colour and finish. It is possible to paint your windows made of timber every 6-10 year, depending on the location and the amount of sun they get. Maintaining them on a regular basis is a great way to keep them looking and working their best for as long as possible.