How to Repair Timber Windows
Timber windows can be an attractive feature of a home. They are susceptible to decay over time, especially when exposed to harsh weather conditions.
Instead of replacing wooden window frames, it's better to carry out repairs. This will help you save money, and your home will keep its original look.
Repairing rotten wood
Wooden window frames are constantly exposed to the elements and are often one of the first parts of a house to be damaged and damp. Fortunately, a lot of instances of decayed timber can be repaired and dealt with quickly. It is essential to determine the issue and take action as soon as possible. In the absence of action, the problem could worsen.
It is crucial to first determine the extent of the rot and then determine if it can be repaired. Start by conducting a thorough inspection of the exterior and examining the roof for damaged slates, tiles as well as blocked rain gutters and defective damp-proof course (DPC). Also, you should check the interior of the home including the basements and cellars and the joist ends on non-cavity wall.
Once you've identified the area that is affected by rot, it's crucial to eliminate as much rotten timber as you can. This will lessen the amount of damage and make it easier to complete the repairs. The next step is to make use of a pry bar, or a clawed hammer to prise away as much of the rotten timber as you can. It isn't easy to do however by pushing the clawed end of the hammer against the healthy wood and then inserting the pry bar in the corner it will generate enough leverage to lift the old wood.
Be sure to leave a gap of space between the woods when you are removing the decayed wood. 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 area to reduce the risk of future leaks and damage.
The epoxy or wood filler can be used to fix the remaining boards after removing the decayed wood. This is a reasonably inexpensive and easy way to fix wood rot on windows made of timber. It can be sanded, then painted to match your current frame.
If the rot is extensive, it might be cheaper to replace the entire window frame, particularly if you want a long-term fix that will stop further water infiltration. You may also want to consult a professional wood window repair service to find out what options are available to you.
Splicing or scarfing
Timber windows are a fantastic choice for older homes and listed buildings, but can be utilized in new construction. They are more expensive than uPVC however, they offer long term benefits and add value to your home.
They are extremely durable and can be manufactured to any size. They are also simple to retrofit and offer superior thermal performance. However, they do require regular maintenance - particularly painting.
Softwoods and hardwoods are the two main types of wood. Hardwoods come from broad-leafed, deciduous trees. They have a very complex cellular structure, which gives them good dimensions stability. Softwoods are made from coniferous trees or needle-leaf tree and their cellular structure is much simpler.
Traditionally, structural joints within timber frames were created by mortice and tenons, or the comb joint. These joints are secured by nailing or pinning into place, but are not joined using adhesive. Over time, water ingress freely passes between sections of timber, which can cause staining or rot. Poor workmanship can cause this. Fixtures that aren't properly inserted or are not covered can allow moisture to enter the frame. If this happens it can lead to rust staining and water deposits on window frames.
It is not recommended to replace the existing timber sash window with uPVC particularly in historic or listed buildings. This could compromise the integrity of the structure. Additionally, uPVC windows have a short lifespan and eventually end up in landfill.
Modern timbers, like Accoya or Red Grandis are impregnated with a special treatment that makes them resistant to pests and weather conditions. These windows can last a lifetime when they are painted and maintained properly. They can also be fitted with burglar-proof glass which increases the amount of force required to open the window and makes it more difficult to break.
While replacing timber sash using uPVC is initially less expensive however, it's not double glazed windows repair an ideal choice for period or listed properties because it will damage the integrity of the structure and could breach the planning permission. Furthermore, uPVC can be very noisy and has a limited life span before they begin to degrade and need replacement.
Filling in cracks or splinters
If they are treated with the proper treatment and attention to timber windows, they can be in service for a long time. They can enhance a building's aesthetics, offer decoration, and fulfill their primary function of keeping homes warm, dry and secure. As with everything, they are susceptible to wear and tear. It is important to take care of them and repaired when this happens.
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 has been damaged by rot, it could be very difficult to repair. That's why it's essential that you carry out regular inspections of your timber windows, particularly prior to winter. They can be especially damaged by the cold temperatures and the pounding rain.
It is important to observe the condition of frames as well as any areas that are badly damaged when a window is taken apart. This will help you save time and money in the long run since it will make the restoration process much simpler. You can save money by not needing to replace the entire window.
If you want to replace a damaged part of a timber windows, it is always best to splice or scarf in an entirely new piece of wood that is seasoned rather than attempting to fix the damaged one. This can be done either by cutting the damaged area to at least 5cm beyond the point of rot, or by removing the entire sash and splicing in the new piece of wood.
The final step is to treat the timber with an appropriate preservative. This is to prevent moisture from getting into the wood, which can cause it to decay and weaken the frame's structure. It is important to paint your windows regularly in the event that you don't intend to treat them.
The majority of windows made of timber can be repaired by a handy DIYer. However in the event that the sashes or internal linings are damaged, it could be necessary to dismantle the window to rebuild them. A broken counterbalance cable on a double-hung window is one of the more difficult problems to fix, as it can only be fixed by taking the sashes off the frame and disassembling it.
Painting
A well-painted finish can make a big difference on windows made of timber. It can make them appear fresh and new, but it can also help 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. If you are not sure, you can use a wood moisture meter for testing the moisture content of the timber. Moisture may still be present even if the wood looks and appears dry to the touch, therefore it is important to know if your window frames are susceptible to wet rot.
Before you begin painting, it is an excellent idea to clean the entire frame with a soft moist cloth and then remove any grease or oil marks. This will make sure that you don't smear the dirt around and will make cleaning simpler. If you have window handles, it is worth removing them and putting them away. This will allow you to work with the frames without worrying about breaking the glass.
When you are ready begin painting, grab an unclean brush and apply a thin layer of primer. This will give your surface more depth and prepare it for the final coat of paint. Let it dry and then lightly sand it with fine sandpaper for a smooth finish.
The first coat of paint has been applied. Again, make sure you apply the paint in thin layers and cover all areas equally. Once the paint has dried, sand the surface once more gently prior to applying the second coat.
Repeat this process until you're satisfied with the color and finish of your window. You may need to re-paint your windows made of wood every 6 to 10 years, depending on the location and the amount of sun they receive. Having a regular maintenance plan is a great way to ensure that they remain in good condition and performing as long as is possible.