How to Properly Maintain and Repair Timber Windows
Many old buildings have beautiful windows made of timber. If they are not regularly painted and properly maintained they could be damaged and stop functioning correctly.
It is possible to fix damaged wood in wooden window frames, and it is quite simple using the correct methods. There are many different methods for treating rot, some more effective than others.
Examine the overall condition
The timber windows will degrade over time because of exposure to the elements and the dampness in your home. Unchecked, this can cause rot in the timber.
It is crucial to act swiftly if you discover that your wooden windows are damaged. Ignoring rotted timber will only make it worse especially when winter weather arrives. Even if your timber windows are in poor condition you can still fix them. You'll need some extra time and effort.
It is important to take into consideration that different repair techniques are appropriate for different scenarios when assessing the general condition of the window. Repairing rotten timber sections in your window frame can be done by splicing fresh timber into the frame. However, this is only recommended if the rotten part of your window is not too big. If the rotten portion of your window is too large it could be required to replace the entire sash.
It is first necessary to examine your timber windows. You should be looking for signs of rot and damp as well as damage to the frame and sills. If you're not sure what to look for, have a professional carry out a full examination of your windows made of timber.
Wear protective gloves while doing this. Broken and splintered window glass can be dangerous. Also, you should have a ladder and someone to hold the ladder steady.
Penetrating damp is among the primary reasons why timber windows deteriorate. The penetration of damp can cause your timber windows to rot, which can cause serious problems such as dry or wet rot. It is crucial to have your timber windows repaired whenever you suspect they are impacted by penetrating moisture. This will help prevent further damage to the windows and also protect your home from damp and decay.
Cleaning the Frames
Timber windows are robust and durable, however they need to be maintained and cleaned regularly. If you don't, they could begin to degrade, impacting their look and performance. This can lead to rot, mould growth, and the need for repairs.
A good place to start cleaning your window frames made of timber is to clean them with a damp cloth and a washing liquid. This will help to get rid of any dust and dirt that has built up on the frame. If there are stubborn stains or marks that won't go away, use a soft toothbrush with a bit of water and washing liquid to gently scrub the area.
You should also clean the glass panes as well as hinges and handles. Once the frames have been cleaned, you can begin any repairs or renovations. If your hinges aren't working properly or the silicone around them is pulling away from the frame, you should fix this as soon as possible.
After the splice or filler is dry, it's essential to lightly sand the surface before painting. This will smooth the surface and create a consistent look. It is recommended that you apply a wood varnish or stain specifically designed for timber windows. These will provide the most durable protection and finish.
After your windows made of timber have been sanded and painted it's a good idea for you to seal the edges with an oil-based sealant that is waterproof. This will stop moisture from entering and causing damage to the wood over time.
When the window is fully sanded, it's time to paint. This is best done on a day with no rain or wind forecast. You should also choose a quality exterior-grade stain or paint that's suitable for wood. Once the paint is dry, you can lightly sand the paint with fine sandpaper, then scrub off any dust.
Fill any cracks that may appear
Water penetration can cause rot in the wood of timber windows. It is therefore crucial to maintain the paint. Cracked or blistered paint allows water penetrate, which can accelerate the deterioration process. This is particularly true in the winter months when water freezes and breaks down wood fibres, which can cause warping and decay. Modern timbers like Accoya (which does not expand or contract as much) and coatings specifically designed to withstand this, will ensure longevity from your windows.
Filling any cracks or splinters that are present in your frames is essential, as rotting can occur in the event that you don't take care. Utilize a filler specifically designed for use on the outside to fix any flakes, splinters, or small splits you may discover in your frames. Apply it liberally on the affected area. This will not only seal in moisture, but also aid to strengthen your frame.
In certain situations it is necessary to replace a section of the timber frame because of rot or damage. A skilled carpenter can replace the piece of damaged timber with a new well-seasoned and fully-seasoned piece. It is a good idea to have the new splice treated with dry rot treatment prior to the time it is put into the window, to prevent further rotting and add strength to the frame.
After the splice is glued and left to set, you can then sand the repaired area down to its original shape making sure it's aligned with the frame. This is why it can be beneficial to have a range of types of sandpaper available beginning with an extremely coarse grade to more smoother 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 crucial to evaluate the overall condition before committing to major works. If you find a lot of rot in the frame, it's best to replace the entire frame rather than attempt to repair and re-glaze every component.
Paint
Timber windows can provide character, charm and style to older houses, or they can provide a rustic feel to modern ones. They are generally believed to be more attractive than uPVC or aluminium windows, however, they require more care because the natural wood is prone to deterioration and may react with different weather conditions in a unpredictable manner. If left unattended, timber windows like sash and casement will begin to deteriorate quickly and may eventually require replacement. Regular painting and careful repair can prolong the life of your wooden windows.
The first step is to take off the old paint. A power stripper is typically recommended, but you can use a paint scraper or wire brush as well. After the paint is removed, you'll need to sand down the wood. This will give the wood an even, smoother surface and stop dampness from getting into the wood and causing it to rot.
After the sanding has repair upvc windows been completed, it's time to paint. Ideally, you'll want to do this on a dry and sunny day, so the paint will dry quickly. Start by working your way through the entire window frame beginning with the most difficult-to-access places. Be careful not to touch the sash or sill, because it could cause oil based putty peel off.
It is important to allow the sill and sash to dry for a minimum of 2 weeks - the ideal is one month. If you rush through this step the putty will not be able to set and your window will become less durable.
While you're waiting for the sash and sill to dry it is worth having a look at all the hardware, particularly the hinges, lock levers, and lift pulls. To ensure they function properly, you'll require realignment and oiling. Re-glue any loose joints and use an exterior grade adhesive that is strong on new joints.
The replacement of windows made of timber is a major task and costly and therefore it is important to consider the condition of your current frames before investing in replacements. Renovation may be the better alternative if you are seeing an excessive amount of wear and tear or rotting timber. It's still expensive, but it is much less than the full cost of replacing your current windows.