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How to Repair Timber Windows Windows made of timber are a stunning feature that will truly make a house stand out. They can deteriorate over time, especially if they are exposed to harsh weather conditions. Repairs are cheaper than replacing window frames. This will help you save money, and your home retains its original style. Repairing rotten wood Wooden window frames are constantly exposed to the elements and are one of the first parts of a home to exhibit signs of damage and damp. Fortunately, decayed wood can often be repaired and addressed quickly. It is essential to determine the problem and address it immediately. Otherwise, it could worsen. It is crucial to determine the extent of the rot, and then determine whether or not it's salvageable. A thorough inspection of the exterior is usually a good place to begin, examining for damaged slates or tiles on the roof as well as blocked guttering and damaged damp proof course (DPC). You should also check the inside of the house including the cellars and basements and the joists' ends on a non-cavity wall. As soon as you have identified the affected area the rot, it is essential to remove the rotten wood as much as possible. This will reduce the amount of damage and make it easier to complete the repairs. The next step is to use a pry bar or clawed hammer to prise away as much of the rotted timber as you can. This can be quite difficult however, by putting the clawed end of the pry bar into the corner and rubbing it against the healthy board, you will be able to create enough leverage to break the old timber. Ensure that you leave a clear space between the timbers when you remove the decayed wood. This will prevent moisture from entering and causing further damage to the timbers around the gap. It's also recommended to remove any nails or other debris from the area to limit the chance of further leaks and damage. After getting rid of as much rotten timber as you can, the remaining boards can be fixed with wood filler or epoxy. This is an easy and relatively cheap solution for fixing wood rot in windows made of wood, and they can be easily sanded and then painted to match the frame. If the rot is extensive, it could be more cost-effective to replace the entire window frame, particularly when you're looking for an ongoing fix that will prevent further moisture penetration. You might also want to speak with a professional wood window repair service to find out what options 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 enhance new properties. They are more expensive than uPVC however they offer long term benefits and add value to your home. They can be manufactured in any size and are very durable. They are also easy to retrofit and provide excellent thermal performance. However, they do require regular maintenance, particularly painting. There are two main types of timber: hardwoods and softwoods. Hardwoods are broad-leafed deciduous trees with complex cellular structures. This gives them good stability in terms of dimension. Softwoods, on the other hand are coniferous or needle-leafed trees. They have a much simpler cell structure. Traditional timber frame structural joints were created by mortice and Tenons, also known as comb joints. These joints are nailed or pinned to the frame and are not joined using adhesive. Water can easily get between timber sections and cause rot, or staining. Poor workmanship can cause this. Fixtures that are not properly placed or covered may allow moisture to be introduced into the frame. This could lead to rust stains and water deposits on the window boards if it is allowed to develop. It is not recommended to replace a timber sash window with uPVC especially in historic or listed buildings. This can compromise the structural integrity of the building. Furthermore, uPVC windows have a short lifespan and end up as landfill. Modern timbers, such as Accoya or Red Grandis are impregnated with a special treatment to make them resistant to pests and weather conditions. They can last a lifetime when they are maintained and painted properly. They can also be fitted with burglar proof glazing which increases the force needed to open the windows and makes them harder to smash. Although replacing timber sash with uPVC is initially cheaper but it isn't an ideal option for listed or period homes because it will damage the integrity of the building and also violate the planning permission. uPVC is also draughty, and will last a limited time before it has to be replaced. Filling cracks and splinters If you take care of your wooden windows, they can last for a long time. They can enhance a building's aesthetic, provide decorative features and serve their primary function of keeping a property safe, dry and warm. As with everything else, they can be susceptible to wear and tear and when this happens, it is vital that they are taken care of and restored. Wood rot is the most common problem that can be found in timber windows and doors, and it's not just a case of replacing rotten parts. When a frame is damaged by rot, it can be very difficult to fix. This is why it's crucial that you carry out regular checks on your timber windows, especially prior to winter. The constant cold and rain can be particularly rough on windows, increasing the chance of water penetration. It's crucial to know the condition of frames as well as any areas that are severely damaged when a window is taken down. This will help you save time and money as the process of restoring it is much more straightforward. It can also save you the expense of replacing a whole window. If you are looking to replace a damaged part of a wooden window it is always better to splice or scarf in an entirely new piece of wood that is seasoned than to try to repair the existing one. This can be done by either cutting away the damaged area to at least 5cm past the point of rot or by cutting off the entire sash and splicing a new piece. The final step is to treat the wood with the help of a preservative. This will stop moisture from entering the wood, which could cause it to rot and weaken its structure. It is important to paint your windows on a regular basis even if you don't plan to treat them. The majority of windows made of wood can be repaired by a handy DIYer. However, if the internal linings or sashes are broken it may be necessary to remove the window to rebuild them. A broken counterbalance cable on a double-hung windows is one of the most difficult issues to fix since it can only be fixed by taking the sashes out of the frame and disassembling it. Painting A good paint job will make a huge difference to your timber windows. It can make them appear fresh and new, but it also helps keep them healthy by covering any signs of rot or other issues. Make upvc window repair near me that the wood is completely dry before you begin painting. This is crucial, since moisture can cause wet rot. Utilize a wood moisture meter in case you are not sure. Moisture can still be present even if the timber appears and feels dry to the touch, so it is important to know how to spot if your window frames are still susceptible to wet rot. It is a good idea to clean the entire frame with a moist, soft cloth before you begin painting. This will eliminate any grease or oils marks. This will ensure that you don't just smear the dirt around and can make cleaning much easier. If you have window handles, it is worth removing them and putting them aside. This will allow you to work with the frames without having to worry about breaking the glass. Apply a thin layer of primer with a clean, dry brush when you are ready. This will give the surface more depth and will prepare it for the final coat of paint. Allow it to dry, and then sand gently with sandpaper that is fine to give it a smooth surface. The next step is to apply the first coat of paint. Again, make sure you apply the paint in a thin layer and cover all areas equally. After the paint is dry, sand it again gently and then apply the next coat. Repeat this process until you are satisfied with the color and finish of your window. It is possible to paint your windows made of timber every 6 to 10 years, depending on where they are and how much sun they receive. Having a regular maintenance plan is a good way to keep them looking and working their best for as long as possible.