How to Properly Maintain and Repair Timber Windows
Timber windows are a beautiful characteristic of many older buildings. If they are not regularly painted and properly maintained they may be damaged and stop working correctly.
It is possible to fix rotting wood in timber window frames. It is easy to do so with the right techniques. There are several different methods for treating rot with some of them more effective than others.
Verify the overall condition
The condition of windows in timber will change as time passes because of exposure to the elements, and damp in your home. If unchecked, this can result in rotting of the timber and that's not a good thing.
If you find that your timber windows have been damaged, it is imperative to act fast. The delay in addressing rotted timber will make it worse over time, particularly when winter weather arrives. Even if your windows made of wood are in bad shape, you can still repair them. You'll need to put in some extra time and effort.
It is important to take into consideration that different repair techniques are appropriate for different situations when assessing the overall condition of a window. For example, splicing in fresh timber is a viable method of repairing rotten sections of your window frame. This is only suggested if the rotten part of your window is not larger than the size of a certain amount. If the area that is rotten in your window is huge, you may need to replace the entire sash.
You'll first need to inspect your windows made of wood. Look for signs of rot, damp and damage to the frame or sills. Ask a professional to inspect your timber windows if you are unsure of what to look for.
Remember to wear heavy work gloves while doing this as splintered and cracked window glass could be hazardous. It's important to keep a ladder in your bag and someone to help steady it.
One of the main reasons that timber windows begin to decay is because they're exposed to damp that penetrates your property. Penetrating damp could cause your timber windows to rot, which could lead to serious issues like dry or wet rot. If you think that your windows made of timber are being affected by damp penetrating them it is crucial to repair them as soon as possible. This will help avoid further damage to your windows made of timber and also protect your home from damp and mold.
Cleaning the Frames
Timber windows are durable and durable, however they need to be maintained regularly. They are susceptible to deterioration and loss of their effectiveness if you do not. This can lead to rot to grow, mould, and the need for repairs.
The best way to begin cleaning your timber window frames is to clean them with a damp cloth and a washing up liquid. This will eliminate any dust or dirt that has accumulated on the frame. If you notice any marks or stains that aren't going away then you can apply a soft bristle with only a little bit of water and washing up liquid to gently scrub them off.
Also, you should clean any glass panes as well as the hinges and handles. When the frames are clean then you can begin making any repairs or improvements you may require. For instance, if you notice that your hinges have become loose or the silicone surrounding them has started to sag it is important to get this repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage.
Once the repair or filler is done, it's crucial to give it a light sand before painting. This will smooth the surface, and create a consistent look. It is recommended to use a wood stain or varnish that has been specifically designed for timber windows as these will provide the most durable finish and protect.
After your timber windows have been painted and sanded, it's recommended to seal the edges using an oil-based sealant that is waterproof. This will stop moisture from entering and causing damage to the wood in time.
It's time to start painting the window after it has been completely sanded. It's a good idea paint the window on a sunny day with no rain or wind in the forecast. It's also important to make sure that you're using a high-quality exterior-grade stain or paint that's suitable for wood. Once the paint is dry, you can lightly sand the paint with fine sandpaper, then clean off any dust.
Fill Any Cracks
Water intrusion can cause rot in the timber of windows made of timber. It is therefore essential to maintain the paint. Cracked and blistered paint allows water to penetrate, which can accelerate the deterioration process. This is particularly true in winter when the water freezes and pulls wood fibres apart which can cause rot and warping. Modern timbers, such as Accoya, which does not expand or shrink as much, and coatings that are designed to cope with these conditions will give your windows a long lifespan.
It is also essential to repair any cracks in your frames right away, as not doing so can lead to the formation of rot. Make use of a filler made for use on the outside to fix any splinters, flakes or tiny splits you might discover in your frames. Apply it evenly on the affected area. This will not only help seal out moisture, but also strengthen your frame.
In some cases, it may be necessary to replace a portion of the timber frame due to damage or rot. A professional carpenter could replace the section of damaged timber with a brand new well-seasoned, properly seasoned piece. It is recommended to have the new splice treated with dry rot treatment prior to when it is put into the window to stop further rotting and add strength to the existing frame.
Once the splice has been glued and left to set, you can then smooth the repaired area to its original size making sure it's aligned with the frame. This is why it can be helpful to keep several types of sandpaper available, progressing from an extremely coarse grade to an easier one to finish the job.
Be aware that wooden windows are more expensive to repair than windows made in metal or plastic. It is important to look for any damage prior to beginning major work. If you notice a lot of rot in the frame, it's better to replace the entire frame rather than attempt to repair and re-glaze each part.
Paint
Timber windows can give the look, character, and charm to older houses, or they can give a cottage feel to modern windows. They are considered more appealing than uPVC and aluminum windows. However they require more maintenance because the wood is more vulnerable to damage. If left unattended, timber windows like sash and casement are susceptible to deterioration and eventually require replacement. Regular painting and a careful repair can extend the life of your wooden windows.
In the beginning, you'll have to strip the old paint. You can also employ an electric brush or a paint scraper. Once all the paint is removed you'll need to sand the wood. This will give the wood smoother surface and will stop dampness from entering the wood and leading to it rotting.
After the sanding, it's now time to start painting. Ideally, you'll want paint on a dry and sunny day, so that the paint will dry quickly. Start with the hard-to-reach areas and then work your way through the entire frame of your window. Be careful not to touch the double glazing windows repairs sash area or sill because it could cause oil based putty peel off.
The sill and sash regions must be left to dry for a minimum of two weeks, but best an entire month. If you hurry through this step the putty will not dry and your window will be less durable.
While you're waiting for the sill and sash to dry, it's worth looking at all the hardware, especially the hinges, lock levers, and lift pulls. You'll have to adjust and lubricate these in order to make sure they work properly. It's also a good idea to repair any joints that are loose, and then use a strong exterior-grade adhesive on any new joinery.
It's costly to replace timber frames, so it is important to consider their condition before purchasing new ones. Renovation might be the best alternative if you are seeing significant wear and tear or decaying timber. It's not cheap however, it's far cheaper than the total cost of replacing your old windows.