How to Properly Maintain and Repair Timber Windows
Timber windows are a stunning characteristic of many older buildings. If they are not regularly painted and maintained they could be damaged and stop functioning properly.
It is possible to repair rotting wood in timber window frames. It is easy to do so with the right methods. There are many different methods of rot treatment available, some more effective than others.
Examine the overall condition
The timber windows will degrade as time passes because of exposure to the elements, and damp in your home. If not taken care of, this could lead to timber rot which is not a good thing.
It is important to act quickly if you notice that your wooden windows are damaged. Ignoring rotted timber will only cause it to get worse over time especially when winter arrives. It's not that difficult to fix timber windows, even if they're in poor condition. You'll need a little more time and effort.
It's important to consider that different repair methods are suitable for different situations when assessing the overall condition of a window. Repairing rotten timber sections in the frame of your window is possible by splicing fresh timber into the frame. This is only suggested when the rotten portion of your window is not larger than an amount of. If the area that is rotten in your window is very large, you may need to replace the entire sash.
The first thing that you'll have to do is to thoroughly inspect the condition of your wood windows. Look for signs of rot, damp and damage to the sills or frame. Get a professional to look over your windows made of timber if you aren't sure what to look for.
Wear protective gloves while working in this. Broken and splintered window glass can be hazardous. It is also recommended to have a ladder and someone to steady the ladder.
Penetrating damp is among the main reasons timber windows degrade. The penetration of damp can cause your windows to rot, and this can lead to serious problems such as dry or wet rot. If you believe that your windows made of timber are being affected by damp penetrating them it is essential to repair them as quickly as possible. This will help avoid further damage to your windows made of timber and protect your home against damp and mold.
Cleaning the Frames
Timber windows are sturdy and durable, however they need to be maintained regularly. If you don't do this, they could begin to degrade in appearance and function. This could lead to rotting, mould growth, and the need for repair work.
To begin cleaning your wooden window frames, apply a damp cloth soaked in washing liquid. This will remove any dirt or dust that has accumulated on the frame. If you notice any stains or marks that won't shift then you can apply a soft bristle with a small amount of water and a washing up liquid to gently scrub them away.
It is also recommended to clean the glass panes and handles and hinges. Once the frames are cleaned, you can start any repairs or renovations. For example, if your hinges are loose or the silicone surrounding them has begun to separate, this needs to be fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Once the repair or filler is dry, it's important to give the area a light sand before painting. This will help to smooth the surface and give it a uniform appearance. It is recommended to use a wood varnish or stain that is designed specifically for windows made of timber. They will give you the most durable protection and finish.
It's also a good idea to apply a waterproof sealant to the edges of your timber windows after they've been painted and sanded. This will stop moisture from getting in and causing damage to the wood over time.
It's time to paint the window after it has been completely sanded. It's a good idea to do this on a clear day with no wind or rain in the forecast. It is also recommended to use a quality pvc window repairs exterior-grade stain or paint that's suitable for wood. Once the paint is dry it is recommended to lightly sand it again with a fine sandpaper. Then, remove any dust to ensure your windows look great.
Fill any cracks that may appear
Water penetration can cause rot in the wood of timber windows. This is why it is crucial to be on top of maintenance of the paint - cracked or blistered paint lets water in and accelerates the degradation. This is especially true in winter when the water freezes and pulls wood fibres apart which can cause warping and rot. Utilizing modern timbers such as Accoya (which does not expand and contract so much) and coatings designed to cope with this, will give you a long service life from your windows.
Filling any cracks or splinters that are present in your frames is essential since rotting could occur in the event that you don't take care. Utilize a filler specifically designed for use on exteriors to repair any flakes, splinters, or small splits you may find in your frames. Apply it generously to the affected area. This will not only help to seal in moisture but will also help to strengthen your frame.
In certain situations, it could be necessary for a section of timber frame to be replaced because of rot. This can be accomplished by a professional carpenter who will cut out the damaged section and treat it before splice in an entirely new piece of well-seasoned timber in a similar way. It's a good idea to treat the new splice with a dry rot treatment before it is placed in the window, in order to avoid further rotting and add strength to the frame.
After the splice is glued and left to be set, you can remove the repaired area to its original form, making sure it is aligned with the frame. This is why it can be beneficial to have a range of types of sandpaper available beginning with the coarsest grade to an easier one for the final finish.
Remember that wood windows are more expensive to repair than windows made in plastic or metal. It is important to look for any damage prior to beginning major work. If you discover a large amount of decay, it is probably better to consider replacing the entire frame instead of trying to repair or re-glue individual parts.
Paint
Timber windows can give charm, character and style to older houses, or they can provide a rustic feel to contemporary windows. They are thought to be more attractive than uPVC and aluminium windows. However they require more maintenance because the wood is more susceptible to damage. If left unattended, timber casement or sash windows can deteriorate quickly and eventually require to be replaced. Regular painting and a careful repair can prolong the life of your wooden windows.
First, you will need to take off the old paint. You can also make use of a paint brush or wire scraper. Once all the paint has been removed, you'll need to sand the wood down. This will create a smooth finish and ensure that any dampness is not absorbed into the wood and cause the wood to rot.
Once the sanding is done it's time to begin painting. Ideally, you'll want do this on a dry and sunny day, so that the paint will dry quickly. Start by working your way through the entire window frame beginning with the most difficult-to-access areas. Be careful not to touch the sash area or sill, because it could cause peeling of the oil-based putty.
It is important to allow the sash and sill area to dry for a minimum of 2 weeks - the ideal is at least a month. If you rush through this process the putty will not dry and your window will be less durable.
While you wait for the sill and sash to dry, you should be inspecting all the hardware. Pay special attention to hinges, the lock levers, and the lift pulls. To ensure that they function correctly, you'll need to adjust them and oiling. Re-glue joints that are loose and use an adhesive of high strength for exterior use on the new joinery.
It is costly to replace wooden frames, so it is important to be aware of their condition prior to purchasing new ones. If you see signs of wear and tear or the wood is rotting, then renovation may be an option. Although it can be expensive but the expense is much lower than replacing all your windows.