14 Misconceptions Commonly Held About Repair Timber Windows

How to Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows can be an attractive feature of a home. They are susceptible to decay over time, particularly when they are exposed to extreme weather conditions.

Repairs are more cost-effective than replacing window frames. This will help you save money, and the property will retain its original character.

repairing upvc windows rotten wood

Window frames made of wood are constantly exposed to the elements and are among of the first components of a home to be damaged and damp. Luckily, the majority of cases of rotten timber are fixable and can be addressed relatively quickly. It is important to identify the problem and act as soon as possible. In the absence of action, the problem could worsen.

It is important to first evaluate the extent of the rot and determine if it can be repaired. A thorough inspection of the exterior is usually a good place to begin, looking for damaged roof tiles or slates or gutters that are blocked, as well as deficient damp proof course (DPC). You should also check the interior of the property including basements and cellars and also the joists' ends on a non-cavity wall.

As soon as you have identified the area that is affected by rot it is important to remove the rotten wood as soon as you can. This will lessen the amount of damage and allow you to finish the rest of the repair work. Next, make use of a clawed hammer, or pry bar to remove the most rotten wood possible. This can be a bit difficult however, if you insert the clawed end of the pry bar into the corner and Window frame repair pushing it against the healthy board you should be able to create enough force to rip the old timber.

Be sure to leave a clear space between the timbers when you remove the decayed wood. This will stop moisture from entering and causing further damage to the wood around the gap. It's also worth removing any nails and other debris from the affected area to minimise the risk of further leaks and damage.

After getting rid of as much rotten timber as you can be able to, the remaining timber can be fixed with epoxy or wood filler. This is a reasonably cost-effective and simple way to repair wood rot on timber windows. It can be sanded, then painted to match the existing frame.

If the degree of decay is serious, however, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire frame by a new one, especially if you're looking for an ongoing solution that will protect against further moisture penetration. It is also possible to contact a professional wood window repair service to determine the options available to you.

Splicing or scarfing in

Timber windows are a great choice for older homes and listed buildings, but can also be used in new construction. They are more expensive than uPVC, but they provide long-term benefits and add value to your home.

They are extremely durable and can be manufactured to any size. They are also easy to retrofit with insulated glass units (IGUs) and provide excellent thermal performance. However, they require regular maintenance - particularly painting.

Softwoods and hardwoods are the two main categories of wood. Hardwoods are broad-leafed deciduous species with a complex cellular structure. This provides them with good stability in terms of dimension. Softwoods are made from coniferous trees or needle-leaf trees, and their cellular structure is much simpler.

Traditional structural joints in timber frames were formed by mortice and Tenons, also known as comb joints. These joints are nailed or pinched into place, but are not bonded using adhesive. Over time, water freely passes between sections of timber, which can cause rot or staining. Poor workmanship can cause this. For instance fixings that are exposed or inadequately punched in can allow moisture to penetrate the frame. If this is allowed to happen, it can result in water deposits and rust staining on window boards.

It is not recommended to replace existing timber sash window repairs london windows with uPVC, especially in historic or listed buildings. This compromises the structural integrity of the building. Additionally, uPVC windows have a short lifespan and are disposed of as garbage.

Modern timbers, such as Accoya or Red Grandis, are treated with a special treatment that makes them resistant to weather conditions and pests. These windows can last a lifetime when they are painted and maintained properly. They can be equipped with burglar proof glass which increases the force needed 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 an option for Window Frame Repair period or listed buildings, as it can damage the integrity of the property and could be in violation of planning permission. uPVC is also noisy, and it has a short life before it needs to be replaced.

Filling cracks and splinters

If you take care of your wood windows, they will last for a long time. They can improve the aesthetics of a building, provide decorative elements, and serve their primary purpose, which is to keep a property warm and dry. Like all things, they are susceptible to wear and tear. It is essential to treat them and repaired when they are damaged.

Wood decay is the most frequent problem that can be found in windows made of wood and it's more than an issue of replacing rotten parts. If a frame is damaged by rot, it could be a challenge to repair upvc windows. It is for this reason that it is essential to conduct regular checks on your timber windows, particularly prior to winter. The relentless cold temperatures and rain can be particularly harsh on windows, increasing the likelihood of water penetration.

When a window frame repair is dismantled it's important to make an inventory of the frame's condition and noting any areas that are severely damaged. This will save you time and money as the restoration process is 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 an entirely new piece of wood that is seasoned rather than attempting to fix the damaged one. This can be done by cutting the damage to a minimum of 5cm above the point of rot, or by removing the entire window sash before splicing in a new piece of wood.

The final step is to treat the wood with a preservative. This will stop moisture from getting into the wood which can cause it rot and weaken its structure. If you do not plan to treat your windows, it's vital that you paint them on a regular basis to ensure they are in good condition.

In the majority of cases, timber windows that are in need of repairs can be fixed by the handy DIYer. However when the sashes or internal linings are damaged, it could be necessary to dismantle the window and re-build them. A broken counterbalance cable on a double-hung windows is among the more difficult problems to fix since it can only be fixed by taking the sashes out of the frame and disassembling it.

Painting

A good paint job can make a big difference on timber windows. It can make windows look new and fresh. But it can also keep them healthy, by covering any issues with rot or any other. Before you begin painting however, ensure that the wood is dry. This is crucial, since moisture can cause wet rot. If you are not sure, use a wood moisture meter for testing the moisture content of the timber. Even when the wood feels and looks dry, moisture can still be present. It is essential to know how to tell if your window frames have wet rot.

Before you begin painting, it is recommended to clean the entire frame with a soft damp cloth and remove any grease or oil marks. This will prevent you from spreading dirt and will make cleaning much easier. It's also worth taking off the handles on your windows If you have them and putting them on one side. This will allow you to work with the frames without worrying about breaking the glass.

Apply a thin layer of primer using a dry, clean brush once you are ready. This will give your surface more depth and prepare it for the final coat of paint. Let it dry and then sand it gently with fine sandpaper to give it a smooth surface.

The first coat of paint has been applied. Paint in a thin, even layer. Once the paint has dried, sand the surface once more gently prior to applying the second coat.

Repeat this process until your window is the color and finish you want. Be aware that you could have to paint your timber windows approximately every 6-10 years, according to their location and the amount of sun they get. Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure that your windows made of timber look and function to their best as long as you are able to.