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Repair Timber Windows Explained In Less Than 140 Characters
How to Properly Maintain and Repair Timber Windows

Many older buildings have beautiful windows made of wood. If they are not regularly maintained and painted they may be damaged and cease to function correctly.

The right methods can help you repair rotting timber in window frames. There are several different methods of treating rot available that are more effective than others.

Check the general condition

Over time, timber windows will begin to deteriorate due to exposure to the elements and damp in your home. If left unchecked this can lead to timber rot which is not a good thing.

If you notice that your windows made of wood have been damaged, it is imperative that you act quickly. The delay in addressing rotted timber will make it worse especially when winter comes around. Even if your timber windows are in a bad state it is still possible to repair them. You'll need to put in some time and effort.

It is important to take into consideration that different repair techniques are suitable for different situations when assessing the general condition of a window. For example, splicing in fresh timber is an effective way to repair rotten sections of your window frame. This method is recommended only if the rotten part of your window does not exceed the size of a certain amount. If the rotten portion of your window is too large, it may 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. You must look for signs of rot, damp and damage to the sills or frame. Consult a professional to examine your timber windows if you aren't sure what to look for.

Remember to wear heavy work gloves when doing this, as cracked and splintered window glass can be hazardous. It's also a good idea to keep a ladder in your bag and someone to help steady it.

One of the most common reasons why timber windows begin to degrade is that they're exposed to damp that penetrates your home. Penetrating moisture can cause windows to decay and cause more serious issues such as wet or dry decay. It is crucial to have your windows fixed as soon you suspect that they are affected by penetrating moisture. This will help prevent further damage to the windows and protect your home against damp and mold.

Cleaning the Frames

Timber windows are robust and durable, however they need to be cleaned and maintained on a regular basis. They can deteriorate and lose their effectiveness if you do not. This can lead to rot, mould growth, and the need for repairs.

A good starting point for cleaning your window frames made of timber is to wipe them clean with a damp cloth and a cleaning liquid. This will remove any dust or dirt that has built up on the frame. If you notice any marks or stains that won't shift or disappear, you can make use of a soft brush and the use of a small amount of water and washing up liquid to gently scrub them away.


You should also wipe down any glass panes as well as the hinges and handles. When the frames are clean then you can begin to do any repairs or modifications you may require. If your hinges are loose or the silicone that covers them is pulling away from the frame, you should repair the issue as soon as you can.

Once any repair or filler is dry, it's important to give it a light sand prior to painting. This will smooth the surface and create a uniform look. It is recommended that you apply 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 a good idea to apply a waterproof sealant around the edges of your timber windows once they have been painted and sanded. This will prevent moisture from getting in and damaging the wood over time.

It's time to start painting the window after it's been completely sanded. It's a good idea to do this on a clear day with no rain or wind in the forecast. It is also recommended to use an exterior grade stain or paint suitable for wood. After the paint has dried, you can lightly sand the paint with fine sandpaper and then wash off any dust.

Fill any cracks that may appear

Water intrusion can cause rot in the wood of timber windows. It is therefore essential to keep the paint. Cracked and blistered paint can allow water to enter, which accelerates deterioration. This is especially true in the winter when water freezes and breaks down wood fibres, leading to the wood to warp and rot. Modern timbers such as Accoya are not able to expand or contract as significantly, and the coatings created to withstand these conditions will ensure your windows a long-lasting life.

It is also crucial to repair any cracks in your frames immediately, as ignoring them will lead to the formation of rot. Use a filler designed for exterior use to fix any splinters, flakes, or tiny splits you might find in your frames. Apply it liberally on the affected area. This will not only help seal out moisture, but also strengthen your frame.

In some cases it may be necessary for a section of timber frame to be replaced because of rot. This can be done by an experienced carpenter who will remove the damaged piece and treat it, then connect an entirely new piece of well-seasoned timber on a similar basis. It is recommended to allow the new splice be treated with a dry-rot treatment prior to being inserted into the frame. This will prevent further rotting, and will add strength to the frame.

After the splice has been put in place and allowed to be set, it is now possible to smooth the repaired area to its original size and ensure it is aligned with the frame. This is where it can be helpful to have a range of types of sandpaper available beginning with an extremely coarse grade to a smoother one to finish the job.

It is important to keep in mind that timber windows are a lot more expensive to repair than their metal and plastic counterparts, so it's essential to assess the overall condition prior to making any major changes. If you see a lot of rot in the frame, it's better to replace the entire frame instead of try to repair or replace each component.

Paint

Timber windows give character, style and appeal to older homes, or they can bring an old-fashioned look to modern homes. They are generally thought to be more appealing than uPVC or aluminium windows, however, they require more care because the natural wood is susceptible to deterioration and may react with different weather conditions in a sporadic manner. If left unattended timber windows, including sash windows, are susceptible to deterioration and may eventually require replacement. Regular painting and maintenance can prolong the life of your wooden windows.

First, you'll need to take off the old paint. You can also make use of a paint brush or wire scraper. After the paint is removed, it is time to sand the wood. door repair near me will give a smooth finish and help prevent any dampness getting into the wood and leading to decay.

After sanding, it's time for painting. Ideally, you'll want to do this on a dry and sunny day, so the paint will dry quickly. Start with the areas that are difficult to reach and then work your way through the entire window frame. Be careful not to touch the sash area or sill since it could cause oil based putty peel off.

The sash and sill areas should be allowed to dry for a minimum of 2 weeks, but it is best to leave it for at least a whole month. If you hurry this step then the putty will not be able to set and your window will not be as long-lasting.

While you wait for the sash and sill to dry it is worth looking at all the hardware, particularly the hinges, lock levers, and lift pulls. To ensure they function correctly, you'll need to adjust them and lubrication. It's also recommended to re-glue any joints that are loose and use a strong external-grade adhesive on new joints.

It's costly to replace timber frames, so be aware of their condition prior to making the decision to buy new frames. Renovation might be the best option if you notice signs of wear and tear or decaying timber. It can still be costly however, it's far less than the full cost of replacing your old windows.

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