10 Misconceptions Your Boss Shares Regarding Repair Timber Windows
How to Repair Timber Windows
Timber windows can be an attractive feature of a home. They can deteriorate over time, particularly when exposed to harsh weather conditions.
Instead of replacing wooden window frames, it's better to make repairs. This will save you money, and the property will keep its original look.
Repairing rotten wood
Window frames made of wood are exposed to the elements all year round and are frequently one of the first places of a house to exhibit signs of damp and damage. Fortunately, decayed wood can often 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 decide whether it's salvable. A thorough exterior inspection is a good place to begin, examining for damaged roof tiles or slates or gutters that are blocked, as well as deficient damp proof course (DPC). You should also inspect the interior of the home including the cellars and basements as well as the joist's ends on a non-cavity walls.
When you've located the area which is affected by rot, it's important to remove as much rotten timber as you can. This will lessen the damage and make the rest of the repairs simpler. The next step is to employ a pry bar or clawed hammer in order to prise away as much of the rotten timber as you can. It's not easy to do, but by pushing the clawed edge against the healthy board and putting the pry bar in the corner it will create enough leverage to remove the old wood.
Make sure you leave a gap of space between the timbers when you remove the decayed wood. This will stop moisture from entering the gap and cause further damage to the surrounding timbers. To minimize the risk of leaks and damage, it's worth removing all nails and debris from the affected area.
Wood filler or epoxy can be used to fix the remaining boards after removing the decayed wood. This is an easy and affordable method of repairing wood rot in timber windows, and can be easily sanded and painted to match the existing frame.
If the severity of the decay is extensive However, it might be more economical to replace the entire window frame with a new one particularly if you're looking for a long-term solution that will ensure that moisture isn't able to penetrate further. It is also advisable to contact an expert timber window repair service to find out what options are available for you.
Splicing or scarfing
Timber windows are an excellent option for homes built in the past and listed buildings, but can also be used in new construction. While they're more expensive, they offer long-term benefits and add value.
They can be manufactured in any size and are robust. They are also extremely easy to retrofit with IGUs (IGUs) and they offer excellent thermal performance. They require regular maintenance, including painting.
Softwoods and hardwoods are the two main types of wood. Hardwoods come from broad-leafed, deciduous trees. They possess a very complex cellular structure that gives them excellent dimension stability. Softwoods are made from needle-leaf or coniferous trees, and their cellular structure is simpler.
Traditionally, structural joints within timber frames were formed by mortice and tenons, or the comb joint. These joints are nailed or pinned into place, but are not joined using adhesive. As time passes, water easily flows through the sections of timber, resulting in staining or rot. Poor workmanship can contribute to this. Fixtures that aren't correctly inserted or are not covered can allow moisture enter the frame. This could lead to rust stains and water deposits on the window frames if it is allowed to develop.
It is not recommended to replace existing timber sash windows with uPVC especially in listed or historic buildings. This compromises the structural integrity. Additionally, uPVC windows have a short lifespan and eventually end up in landfill.
Modern timbers, such as Accoya or Red Grandis, are impregnated with a specific treatment to make them resistant to weather conditions and pests. They can last a lifetime when 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 harder to break.
While replacing timber sash windows with uPVC might be less expensive initially, this is not a viable option for older or listed buildings as it could damage the integrity of the building and could be in violation of planning permission. Additionally, uPVC can be very noisy and has a limited time before they begin to degrade and require replacement.
Filling in upvc window repairs and splinters
If you take care of your wooden windows, they will last for many years. They can improve the aesthetics of a structure, add decoration, and fulfill their most important function in keeping the building warm and dry. As with all things, they could be prone to wear and tear and, when this occurs it is essential to treat them and get repaired.
Wood decay is the most frequent problem that can be found in windows made of timber and doors, and it's not just the case of replacing damaged parts. Once a frame has been damaged by rot, it can be very difficult to fix. It is essential to inspect your windows made of timber frequently, particularly before winter months. The pounding rain and freezing temperatures can be particularly harsh on the windows, thereby increasing the chance of moisture penetration.
When a window is dismantled it's important to make an inventory of the condition of the frames and noting any areas that are severely damaged. This will save time and money in the long term as it'll make the restoration process much more straightforward. You'll save money by not needing to replace the entire window.
If you're looking to replace a damaged piece of a window made of timber it is always advisable to splice or scarf in the new piece of seasoned wood rather than attempting to repair the old one. This can be done by either cutting the damaged section to at least 5 centimeters past the point of rot or by removing the entire sash and splicing in a new one.
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 the structure of the frame. If you do not plan to treat your windows, it's vital that you paint them regularly to keep them in good condition.
In the majority of cases, timber windows that are in need of repairs can be repaired by the handy DIYer. If the sashes are broken or the internal linings are damaged, it could be required that the window be dismantled and rebuilt. One of the most difficult problems to fix is a broken counterbalance rope on double-hung windows, as these are only replaced by taking off the sashes and disassembling the frame.
Painting
A fresh coat of paint will make a huge difference to your windows made of wood. It can make them look new and fresh, but it can also keep them healthy by covering up any signs of rot and other issues. Make sure that the wood is dry before you begin painting. Moisture can cause wet decay. Utilize a wood moisture meter in case you are not sure. There is a possibility of moisture even if the wood appears and is dry to the touch, therefore it is essential to know the signs that your window frames are still susceptible to wet rot.
It is a good idea to clean the entire frame with a damp, soft cloth prior to beginning painting. This will get rid of any oil or grease marks. This will stop the spread of dirt and will make cleaning easier. It is also worth removing the handles from windows If you have them and placing them on one side. This will make it much easier to work on the frames without having to worry about breaking the glass.
Apply a thin layer of primer using a clean, dry brush once you are ready. This will give the surface a bit more depth and will prepare it for the final coat of paint. Allow it to dry and then sand it gently with fine sandpaper to give it a smooth finish.
The first coat of paint has been applied. Again, make sure you paint in a thin layer and evenly cover all areas. When the paint is dry, sand it again gently and then apply the second coat.
Repeat this process until you're satisfied with the color and finish of your window. Be aware that you could need to repaint your windows made of timber about every 6-10 years, depending on their location and the amount of sun they are exposed to. Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure that your windows made of timber look and function at their best for as long as you are able to.