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How to Repair Timber Windows Timber windows are a beautiful feature that will truly make a house stand out. They are susceptible to decay over time, particularly if they are exposed to harsh weather conditions. Repairs are more cost-effective than replacing window frames. This will save you money, and the property will keep its original look. Repairing rotten wood Window frames made of wood are exposed to the elements all year round and are usually one of the first areas of a home to exhibit signs of damp and damage. Fortunately, a lot of instances of rotten wood are fixable and can be dealt with quickly. It is important to identify the problem and act as soon as you can. Otherwise, it could worsen. Initially, it's essential to assess the extent of the rot and decide whether or not it's salvable. A thorough inspection of the exterior is usually a good place to start, checking for damaged roof tiles or slates or gutters that are blocked, as well as defective damp proof course (DPC). It is also a good idea to check the inside of the home, including cellars and basements and joists that end in non-cavity walls. Once you've identified the area that has been affected by rot, it's crucial to eliminate as much rotten timber as you can. This will reduce the extent of damage and allow you to finish the repairs. The next step is to use a pry bar or clawed hammer to try and prise away as much of the rotted timber as you can. This can be a bit difficult however, if you insert the clawed end of the pry bar into the corner and pressing it against the healthy board it should be able to create enough leverage to break the old timber. When you remove the rotten wood, ensure that you leave a gap between the two. This will prevent moisture from getting into the gap and cause further damage to the surrounding timbers. It's also recommended to remove any nails or other debris from the affected area to limit the chance of further leaks and damage. Epoxy or wood filler can be used to fix the remaining boards after removing the decayed wood. This is a simple and relatively cheap solution for fixing wood rot in windows made of wood, and they can be easily sanded, then painted to match the frame. If the extent of the decay is serious However, it might be more cost-effective to replace the entire window frame with a new one, especially if you're looking for an option that can protect against further moisture penetration. You may also want to speak with a professional wood window repair service to find out the options available to you. Splicing or scarfing Timber windows are a traditional choice for period homes and listed homes, however they can also be used to enhance new properties. Although they cost more but they provide long-term benefits and increase value. They are very durable and can be made to any size. They are also easy to retrofit and offer excellent thermal performance. They require periodic maintenance, particularly painting. Softwoods and hardwoods are the two main categories of wood. Hardwoods come from broad-leafed, deciduous trees. They have a very complex cellular structure that provides them good dimensions stability. Softwoods are derived from coniferous trees or needle-leaf trees, and their cellular structure is much simpler. Traditional structural joints in timber frames were made by mortices and Tenons, also known as comb joints. These joints are pinched or nailed in place and are not bonded with adhesive. Over time, water freely passes between sections of wood, causing rot or staining. Poor workmanship can be an important factor. Fixtures that aren't correctly placed or covered can allow moisture to be introduced into the frame. This can lead to water deposits and rust stains on the window board if it is allowed to happen. 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. Additionally, uPVC windows have a short lifespan and end up as landfill. Modern timbers, such as Accoya or Red Grandis, are treated with a special treatment that makes them resistant to weather conditions and pests. These windows can last for a lifetime if they're maintained and painted properly. They can also be fitted with burglar proof glass which increases the force required to open the windows and makes them harder to smash. Although replacing timber sash with uPVC is at first cheaper but it isn't a good option for period or listed properties as it can damage the integrity of the building and also infringe on planning permission. uPVC is also draughty and has a short lifespan before it is required to be replaced. Filling cracks or splinters If they are treated with the proper treatment and care, timber windows can be in service for a long time. They can enhance a home's appearance, add decoration and fulfil their most important function of keeping a home warm, dry and secure. But, like all things, they could be prone to wear and tear and, when this occurs it is crucial that they are treated and repaired. Wood rot is the most common problem that can be found in timber windows and it's more than an issue of replacing rotten parts. Once a frame is damaged by rot, it could be a challenge to repair. It's important to check your windows made of timber frequently, particularly before winter months. They can be especially damaged by frigid temperatures and heavy rain. When a window is taken down it is important to take an inventory of the frame's condition and noting any areas that are severely damaged. This will save you time and money as the process of restoration is much more straightforward. It can also reduce the cost of replacing the entire window. If you want to replace damaged parts of a window made of timber, it is always best to splice or scarf in a new piece seasoned wood instead of trying to repair the existing one. This can be accomplished by cutting the damage to a minimum of 5cm above the point of rot or by removing the whole sash and then splicing it into an entirely new piece of wood. The final step is to treat the wood with an appropriate preservative. This is to prevent moisture from entering the wood, which could cause it to rot and weaken the structure of the frame. If you are not going to treat your windows, it's vital that you paint them regularly to keep them in good condition. Most windows made of wood can be repaired with a handy DIYer. If the sashes are broken or the internal linings have been damaged, it may be required that the window be dismantled and rebuilt. A broken counterbalance cord on double-hung windows is among the more difficult problems to fix, since it can only be repaired by taking the sashes out of the frame and disassembling it. Painting A fresh coat of paint will improve the appearance of your windows made of wood. It can make windows look new and fresh. But it also helps keep them healthy by covering any issues with rot or any other. Before upvc window repairs near me paint however, ensure that the wood is completely dry. Moisture can cause decay that is wet. Utilize a wood moisture meter if you are unsure. There is a possibility of moisture even if the wood appears and appears dry to the touch, which is why it is crucial to know how to spot the signs that your window frames are still susceptible to wet rot. It is a good practice to clean the entire frame with a moist, soft cloth before you begin painting. This will get rid of any grease or oils marks. This will ensure that you don't just scratch the dirt and can make cleaning much simpler. 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 worrying about breaking the glass. Apply a thin layer of primer using a dry, clean brush once you are ready. This will give your surface a little more depth and help prepare it for the final coat of paint. Let it dry and then sand lightly using fine sandpaper to give it a smooth surface. The first coat of paint is applied. Paint in a thin, even layer. When the paint is dry and you have sanded it, do it again and then apply the second coat. Repeat this procedure until your window has the color and finish you want. Be aware that you could need to repaint your windows made of timber approximately every 6-10 years dependent on their location and the amount of sunlight they get. Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure your timber windows appear and perform at their best for as long as you can.