Notes

So You've Bought Repair Timber Windows ... Now What?
How to Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows can be a stunning feature of a home. However, with the passage of time and exposure to harsh weather conditions, they can start to deteriorate.

Repairs are much more cost-effective than replacing window frames. This will save you money and also help the property keep its original look.

Repairing rotten wood

Window frames made of wood are exposed to the elements all year round and are frequently one of the first places of a house to be affected by damp and damage. Luckily, the majority of cases of rotten timber are fixable and can be treated quickly. It is crucial to recognize the problem and address it immediately. In the absence of action, the problem could worsen.

Initially, it's essential to assess the extent of the rot, and then determine whether it's salvageable. A thorough exterior inspection is usually a good place to begin, looking for damaged slates or tiles on the roof, blocked guttering, and deficient damp proof course (DPC). It is also an excellent idea to look at the inside of the home including basements and cellars, and joist ends in non-cavity walls.

When you've identified the area affected by decay, it is crucial to get rid of the wood that has rotted as soon as you can. This will minimize the damage and make the repairs much easier. Then, use a clawed hammer or pry bar to remove as much rotted wood as possible. It can be difficult to do, but by pushing the clawed end of the hammer against the healthy board and inserting the pry bar in the corner, you will be able create enough leverage to free the old wood.

Ensure that you leave a clear space between the woods when you are removing the wood that is rotting. This will stop moisture from entering and causing damage to the wood around the gap. To minimize the risk of further damage and leaks it is important to eliminate any debris and nails from the affected area.

Epoxy or wood filler can be used to fix the remaining boards after removing the decayed wood. This is a simple and inexpensive method of repair of wood rot on windows made of wood, and they can be easily sanded and painted to match the existing frame.

If the rot is serious, it may be cheaper to replace the entire window frame, especially if you want a long-term fix that will stop further water infiltration. You might also want to consult a professional wood window repair service to learn what options are available to you.

Splicing or scarfing in

Timber windows are a fantastic choice for older homes and listed structures, but they can be utilized in new construction. upvc window repairs near me are more expensive than uPVC however they offer long term advantages and increase the value of your home.

They are extremely durable and can be manufactured to any size. They are also simple to retrofit and offer excellent 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 possess a very complex cellular structure that provides them excellent dimension stability. Softwoods are composed of needle-leaf or coniferous trees, and their cellular structure is much simpler.


Traditionally, structural joints in timber frames were made using mortice and tenons or the comb joint. These joints are secured by nailing or pinning into place and are not joined using adhesive. As time passes, water freely passes between sections of timber, resulting in staining or rot. Poor workmanship can cause this. Fixtures that aren't correctly installed or not properly covered can allow moisture to be introduced into the frame. This can cause water stains and rust on the window boards in the event that it is allowed to occur.

Replacing existing timber sash windows with uPVC is not a common choice, especially for historic and listed structures, since they compromise the integrity of the building. Furthermore, uPVC windows have a short lifespan and eventually end up in landfill.

Modern timbers like Accoya and Red Grandis are impregnated and treated, so that they are resistant to the effects of weather conditions and insects. If properly maintained and painted these windows can provide the longest service. They can also be outfitted with burglar-proof glazing, which increases the force required to open the window and makes it more difficult to break.

Although replacing timber sash with uPVC is initially cheaper but it isn't an ideal choice for listed or period properties as it can damage the integrity and breach the planning permission. uPVC is also draughty and will last a limited time before it has to be replaced.

Filling cracks or splinters

If you take care of your wooden windows, they'll last for many years. They can enhance the look of a structure, add decoration, and fulfill their primary function that is to keep the property dry and warm. As with everything, they are susceptible to damage and wear. It is important to take care of them and repaired when this happens.

Wood rot is the most prevalent issue that can affect windows made of timber and it's more than an issue of replacing rotten parts. If a frame is damaged by rot, it can be extremely difficult to repair. It is for this reason that it is essential to conduct regular inspections of your wood windows, especially before winter. The constant cold temperatures and rain can be particularly harsh on windows, increasing the chance of water penetration.

When a window is dismantled it's important to make notes of the condition of the frames and noting any areas that are badly damaged. This can help save time and money in the long run as it'll make the restoration process much simpler. You can save money by not having to replace the entire window.

If you're planning to replace a damaged piece of a window made of timber, it's always best to splice in or scarf in a new piece matured wood instead of trying to repair the damaged one. This can be done by cutting out the damage to at least 5cm over the point of rot, or by removing the entire sash and splicing in a new piece of wood.

The final step is to treat the wood with a preservative. This is to prevent moisture from getting into the wood, which could cause it to decay and weaken the structure of the frame. If you are not going to treat your windows, it's important to paint them regularly to keep them in good condition.

The majority of timber windows can be repaired by a handy DIYer. However in the event that the sashes or internal linings are damaged, it could be necessary to take down the window and re-build them. One of the more difficult problems to fix is a damaged counterbalance rope for double-hung windows since they can only be repaired by removing the sashes and disassembling the frame.

Painting

A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for windows made of timber. It can make them appear new and fresh however, it can also help keep them in good condition by covering any signs of rot and other issues. Before you paint but, ensure that the wood is dry. Moisture can cause decay that is wet. If you're not sure, use a wood moisture meter to test the moisture content of the timber. Even when the wood appears dry and feels dry, moisture may be present. It is essential to understand how to determine if your window frames have wet rot.

Before you begin painting, it's an excellent idea to wipe over the whole frame with a soft moist cloth and remove any oil or grease marks. This will prevent the spread of dirt and make cleaning easier. If you have window handles, it's important to take them off and set them away. This will make it much easier to work on the frames without fear of breaking the glass.

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

It is then time to apply the first coat of paint. Be sure to paint in a thin layer and cover all areas equally. After the paint is dry, sand the surface once more before applying the second coat.

Repeat this process until you are happy with the colour and finish of your window. Be aware that you may need to repaint your windows made of timber approximately every 6-10 years depending on their location and the amount of sun they receive. Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure your timber windows appear and function to their best for as long as you can.

Website: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/basildon-windowrepair/