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7 Things About Repair Timber Windows You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
How to Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows can be an attractive feature of a home. They are susceptible to deterioration over time, especially if they are exposed to extreme weather conditions.

Instead of replacing the window frames, it's better to make repairs. This will save you money and the home retains its original style.

Repairing rotten wood

Wooden window frames are exposed to the elements all year round and are frequently one of the first places of a home to show signs of damp and damage. Luckily, the majority of instances of decayed timber can be repaired and treated quickly. It is important to identify the problem and act immediately. Otherwise, it can worsen.

It is crucial to determine the extent of the rot, and then determine whether or not it's repairable. A thorough inspection of the exterior is usually a good place to begin, examining for slates or tiles that are damaged on the roof as well as blocked guttering and damaged damp proof course (DPC). It's also a good idea to check the inside of the house including basements and cellars and joist ends that are non-cavity walls.


Once you've identified the area that is affected by rot, it's important to eliminate as much of the rotten timber as possible. This will minimize the extent of damage and allow you to finish the rest of the repair work. The next step is to employ a pry bar or clawed hammer to prise away as much of the rotten timber as you can. This can be quite difficult, but by inserting the clawed end of the pry bar into the corner and pushing it against the healthy board it will be able to create enough leverage to break the old timber.

When you remove the rotten wood Make sure you leave an open space between the two. This will help prevent moisture from entering the gap and cause further damage to the timbers around it. It's also worth removing any nails or other debris from the area to minimise the risk of future leaks and damage.

After getting rid of as much decayed timber as you are able to be able to, the remaining timber can be repaired with wood filler or epoxy. This is a simple and relatively cheap solution for repairing wood rot in windows made of timber, and can be easily sanded and painted to match the frame.

If the rot is serious, it might be cheaper to replace the whole window frame, particularly if you want an ongoing fix that will prevent further water penetration. upvc window repair near me 's also worth contacting a professional timber window repair service to find out what alternatives are available to you.

Splicing or scarfing

Timber windows are a popular choice for period buildings and listed homes, however they can also be used to upgrade new properties. They are more expensive than uPVC however they offer long term benefits and add value to your home.

They can be made in any size and are very robust. They are also simple to retrofit and offer excellent thermal performance. They do require regular maintenance, particularly painting.

Hardwoods and softwoods are the two major categories of wood. Hardwoods are broad-leafed deciduous species with a complex cellular structure. This provides them with excellent stability in terms of size. Softwoods are derived from needle-leaf or coniferous trees and their cellular structure is much simpler.

Traditional timber frame structural joints were created by mortice and Tenons or comb joints. These joints are secured by nailing or pinning into place, but are not bonded using adhesive. Water can easily pass between timber sections and cause rot or staining. Poor workmanship can contribute to this. Fixtures that aren't properly inserted or are not covered can allow moisture to get into the frame. This can lead to water deposits and rust stains on the window boards when it is allowed to occur.

Replacing timber sash windows with uPVC is generally not an option, especially for listed and historic buildings, as they undermine the integrity of the building. Additionally, uPVC windows have a short life expectancy and end up as landfill.

Modern timbers such as Accoya and Red Grandis are treated and impregnated, so that they are resistant to the effects of weather conditions and insects. If properly maintained and painted, these windows can give years of service. They can be equipped with burglar-proof glass that increases the force required to open the windows and makes them more difficult to break.

While replacing timber sash with uPVC is initially less expensive however, it's not an ideal option for listed or period homes because it will damage the integrity and breach the planning permission. uPVC is also draughty and has a short lifespan before it needs to be replaced.

Filling in cracks or splinters

Providing the right treatment and care, timber windows can last for a long time. They can enhance the look of a building, add decorations, and perform their primary purpose in keeping the building warm and dry. As with all things they are subject to wear and tear. It is essential that they be treated and repaired if they are damaged.

Wood rot is an issue for timber windows. It's not enough to fix the rotten pieces. When frames are damaged by rot it can be a challenge to repair. It's important to check your timber windows regularly, especially before the winter months. The pounding cold and rain can be particularly rough on windows, increasing the chance of moisture penetration.

It's crucial to know the condition of frames and any areas that are badly damaged when windows are taken down. This will help you save time and money as the process of restoration is much more straightforward. It can also save you the cost of replacing the entire window.

If you are looking to replace damaged parts of a timber windows it is always advisable to scarf in or splice a new piece seasoned wood instead of trying to fix the damaged one. This can be done either by cutting the damaged area to a minimum of 5cm above the point of rot, or by removing the entire window sash before splicing in an entirely new piece of wood.

The final step is to treat the wood with an anti-microbial. This will stop moisture from entering the wood which can cause it rot and weaken its structure. If you do not plan to treat your windows, it's important that you paint them regularly to ensure they are in good condition.

In most instances, windows made of timber that are in need of repairs can be fixed by the handy DIYer. However in the event that the sashes or internal linings are damaged, it might be necessary to dismantle the window and re-build them. One of the more tricky issues to fix is a broken counterbalance rope on double-hung windows since they are only replaced by removing the sashes and disassembling the frame.

Painting

A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for timber windows. It can make windows appear new and fresh. But it can also keep them healthy by covering any rot or other issues. Make sure that the wood is dry before you begin painting. Moisture can cause decay that is wet. If you are not sure, try a wood moisture meter to test the moisture content of the timber. Even when the wood appears dry and feels dry, moisture could be present. It is crucial to know how to tell the presence of wet rot.

Before painting, it is recommended to clean the entire frame with a soft damp cloth and remove any grease or oil marks. This will prevent the spread of dirt and will make cleaning easier. If you have window handles, it is important to take them off and set them away. This will make it easier to work on the frames without having to worry about breaking the glass.

Apply a thin layer of primer with a dry, clean brush when you are ready. This will give your surface a little more depth, and also prepare it for the final coat of paint. After drying, lightly sand it with fine sandpaper to create smoothness.

The first coat of paint has been applied. Paint in an even, thin layer. After the paint is dry, 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. Be aware that you may have to paint your timber windows approximately every 6-10 years dependent on their location and the amount of sun they get. Maintaining them on a regular basis is a good way to ensure they are performing as long as possible.

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