Don't Be Enticed By These "Trends" About Repair Timber Windows
How to Properly Maintain and Repair Timber Windows
Timber windows are a stunning feature of many old buildings. However, if they're not taken care of properly and regularly painted, they could become damaged and stop functioning correctly.
It is possible to fix rotting wood in timber window frames and it is quite simple with the right methods. There are several different methods of treating rot available with some of them more effective than others.
Verify the overall condition
Over time, timber windows will begin to deteriorate due to exposure to the elements and humidity in your home. If glass window repair , this can result in rotting of the timber and that's not a good thing.
If you find that your windows made of wood have begun to deteriorate, it's imperative to act swiftly. In the absence of action, rotten timber will make it worse over time, particularly when winter comes around. It's not that difficult to repair your timber windows even if they're in pretty poor condition. You'll need to put in a bit more time and effort.
It is crucial to think about different repair methods are suitable for different situations when assessing the general condition of windows. For instance, splicing fresh timber is a viable way to repair rotten sections of your window frame. This method is recommended only if the rotten part of your window is not larger than the size of a certain amount. If the rotten section of your window is too large it might be necessary to replace the entire sash.
The first thing that you'll need to take care of is to thoroughly inspect the condition of your wood windows. Look for signs of rot, damp and damage to the sills or frame. If you're not sure of what to look for, you can ask a professional to carry out a full examination of your windows made of timber.
Make sure you wear sturdy work gloves while doing this, as cracked and splintered window glass could be hazardous. You should also have a ladder and someone to hold the ladder steady.
Penetrating damp is among the primary reasons why timber windows degrade. Permeating moisture can cause windows to rot and cause more serious issues such as dry or wet decay. It is essential to have your windows fixed whenever you suspect they are impacted by penetrating moisture. This will not only aid in prevent further damage to your windows made of timber, but it also helps safeguard your home from damp and rot.
Clean the Frames
Timber windows are durable and durable, however they need to be cleaned and maintained on a regular basis. If you don't do this, they could begin to degrade, impacting their look and performance. This could lead to rot, mould growth, and the need for repairs.
To begin cleaning your wooden window frames, you can use a damp cloth with some washing liquid. This will help to remove any dirt or dust that has built up on the frame. If there are stubborn marks or stains that won't go away make use of a soft toothbrush with a bit of water and washing liquid to gently scrub the area.
You should also wipe down any glass panes, as well as the handles and hinges. Once the frames are clean then you can begin any repairs or renovations that you may need to make. For instance, if you notice that hinges have become loose or the silicone surrounding them has begun to separate it is important to get this repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage.
After any filler or splice repair is dry, it's essential to give it an even sanding before painting. This will help to smooth the surface and create an even appearance. It is recommended that you use a wood varnish or stain that is designed specifically for windows made of wood. They will give you the most durable protection and finish.
It's also an excellent idea to apply a waterproof sealant around the edges of your timber windows after they've been painted and sanded. This will stop moisture from getting inside and causing damage to the wood over time.
When the window is fully sanded, it's now time to paint. This should be done on a day that has no wind or rain forecast. It is also recommended to use a quality exterior-grade stain or paint that is suitable for wood. Once the paint is dry you can lightly sand it again with some fine sandpaper, and then clean away any dust to ensure that your windows are in good condition.
Fill any cracks that may appear
The timber used in windows naturally expands and contracts in accordance with the temperature, however this can be made worse by factors such as water penetration, which causes rot. This is why it's important to keep up with painting maintenance. Cracked and blistered paint allows water in which accelerates the process of degradation. This is particularly true in the winter months, when water freezes and breaks down wood fibres, causing the wood to warp and decay. Modern timbers such as Accoya, which does not expand or shrink as significantly, and the coatings created to cope with these conditions will give your windows a long life.
It is also essential to fill any cracks that appear in your frames right away, as neglecting them can result in the development of rot. If you find any splinters, flakes or tiny splits in your frames, it's best to fill them with a product specifically designed for outdoor use and apply it generously on the affected area. This will not only stop moisture, but will also strengthen your frame.
In some instances, it might be necessary for a portion of timber frame to be replaced due to rot. A professional carpenter can replace the section of damaged wood with a new, fully-seasoned piece. It's a good idea to have the new splice treated with dry rot treatment prior to when it is inserted into the window, in order to avoid further rotting and add strength to the existing frame.
Once the splice has been placed and be set, it is now possible to remove the repaired area to its original size, making sure it is flush with the surrounding frame. It is beneficial to have different grades of sandpaper available, from coarse to smoother for the final finish.
Remember that wood windows are more costly to fix than their counterparts in metal or plastic. It is important to look for any damage prior to beginning major work. If you discover a large amount of rot, it's probably best to think about replacing the entire frame rather than attempting to repair and re-glue the individual parts.
Paint
Timber windows add character, style and appeal to older buildings, or they can bring a cottage-style feel to newer homes. They are thought to be more appealing than uPVC and aluminum windows. However they require more care since the wood is more prone to damage. If left unattended timber windows like sash and casement are susceptible to deterioration and may eventually require replacement. Careful repair and regular painting can extend the life of your timber windows.
The first step is to take off the old paint. You can also make use of a paint brush or wire scraper. After the paint is removed, you will need to sand the wood. This will give smooth finish and also aid in preventing dampness from getting into the timber and cause rot.
Once the sanding process is completed, it's time to paint. Ideally, you'll want paint on a sunny and dry day so that the paint will dry quickly. Work your way around the entire frame of the window beginning with the most difficult-to-access areas. When you are at the sill and sash area be sure not to touch it, as this could cause the oil-based putty to peel away.
You'll need to allow the sash and sill area to dry for a minimum of two weeks, but the best is a month. If you hurry through this step the putty will not set and your window will be less durable.
While you wait for the sill and sash to dry, you should consider checking all the hardware. Pay special attention to hinges and lock levers and the lift pulls. To ensure that they function properly, you'll require realignment and oiling. It's also recommended to repair any joints that have come loose, and use a durable exterior-grade adhesive on any new joinery.
Replacing timber windows is a huge project and costly It is therefore important to take into consideration the condition of your existing frames before investing in replacements. Renovation may be the better option if you see signs of wear and tear or decaying timber. Although it can be expensive but the expense is much less than replacing all your windows.