How to Use Wood Fillers to Repair Timber Windows
Many timber windows are affected by rot which can cause a number of problems including peeling paint, windows that stick and rattling. Repairing your historic windows will increase their energy efficiency and keep them in good condition.
The first step is to determine the extent of the rot. This can be done by rubbing the wood with a sharp instrument and by examining the windows for sunken, damp corners and splintered areas of timber.
Wood Fillers
Wood fillers are a fantastic solution to seal cracks and crevices that are present in old wooden windows. They are usually made from sawdust or other wood shavings that are suspended in a petroleum or water base, and can be used to fix damaged or decaying wooden window sills, frames and sash windows. They can be tinted to match the color of the existing wood, then sanded and stained or painted. This guide will help you decide the right type of filler to suit your needs.
The first step is to strip the paint that is in place, specifically from the window sill. This will reveal any areas that require to be treated. It will also allow you to assess the condition of timber. If the window is rotten to much rot, it might not be able to be repaired.
The next step is to determine the cause. If the wood is unstable due to a lack of support, you will need to treat it with a structural stabilizer. This will stabilize the wooden and can be applied with a paintbrush. Once this has been completed, the rotted timber can be treated with water-based wood fillers, such as Bondo(r). Water-based wood fillers dry faster than solvent-based ones and are simpler to remove since they don't require acetone.
Use the standard acrylic latex sealant to fill in the gaps between window frames and wall openings. This is a great option and is easy to apply and can be used with most paints. It is important to check the frame for rot first because too much sanding can cause the gap to be too wide, making the window vulnerable to leaks.
The last alternative is to use heavy-duty epoxy. This type of filler is formulated to stand up to extreme conditions such as heat, humidity, moisture and freezing temperatures. This type of product can be sanded and cut when hard, which gives you more control over the final outcome. It is important to keep in mind that this type filler absorbs stain in a different manner than natural wood, and it is unlikely to create an exact match.
Spliced Repairs
Timber windows add a touch of class to any house and, with the right treatment, they will last for many years. However, as time passes they can become damaged and require repair. Window frames that have been damaged are susceptible to insects and rot, and must be treated immediately to stop further damage.
To ensure that water does not get into the sill or rotted timber and to help insure that damp fungus does not return to the area, a splice repair is often necessary. The area is cleaned of decay and fungus and the timber is then spliced and resin-bonded using the window care system to ensure that the joint will not move and allow moisture to pass through.
This is an extremely efficient method of splicing decayed timber, and is particularly beneficial in situations where it is cheaper to splice instead of replace the entire sill. This type of repair can also be used to replace a small section that is decayed but has not affected the woods surrounding it.
When carrying out a splice repair it is crucial to choose a quality wood that can hold the cement in place and stand up to any movement of the splice. It is also essential to scrape the emulsion off the splice and to avoid using too much cement which could cause it to flow through the film and leave marks on the lining paper. It is recommended after the splice has been made, to tape the edge to hold the repair in place. Then, apply the film adhesive starting from the center to the outside (fig. 11.1 iv).
It is recommended that you encapsulate the entire repaired area with a damp prevention and treatment compound to stop further degradation. It is also recommended to paint or stain the timbers to shield them from the effects of weathering and UV light. Also, make sure that any preservative that has been used remains in contact with the wood to give the greatest protection and durability.
Replacement Parts
Windows made of timber are a gorgeous feature that can add a lot to the character of a house. As time passes, they may be damaged by extreme weather conditions and dampness. Regular maintenance can prevent the necessity for costly replacements, and help to extend their lifespan.
When the wood of the frame of a window begins rot, this can cause problems for the window's operation, and could cause it to collapse. If the rot is severe it could be required to replace the wood completely, which could be expensive. However, with the right care and maintenance windows made of timber can be repaired to its original state without the need for a complete replacement.
Repainting your timber windows is a great option to keep them in good condition. It's a relatively easy process, and it can give new life to windows. Before painting, it is important to prepare the surface thoroughly, which includes sanding and taking off paint layers. Natural linseed oil paint is an excellent choice because it offers good protection and is available in a variety of colours. It is also important not to clog the draught strip paint, as this can cause them to stop working efficiently.
sash window repair is essential to examine the wood before you begin any repairs. It is difficult to verify with naked eyes, but the moisture meter is available. The moisture in timber can create the perfect conditions for wet rot to grow and can cause significant damage over the course of time.
Cracks, splinters and soft spots must be filled immediately as they could be a gateway for decay. It is a good idea to test any suspected soft spots of timber with a light pressure. Healthy wood will feel solid, but the wood that is rotting will be able to depress easily.
To stop draughts from entering the home, it's essential to inspect and adjust the draught seals that surround windows made of timber regularly. To ensure that a wood window is secure the hinges and handles can be tightened. These should be kept in good shape to enhance the performance of your window.
Replacement Windows
It is sometimes feasible, rather than replacing the timber windows by a new uPVC window to restore the original wood windows. It could save you money and increase the value of your house. Depending on the condition of the timber window, it could be simple to repaint or re-sanding, and filling any gaps to restore the look and integrity of the frame.
It is important to address the sash first because it is usually the first component to show signs. In this region, you may find rotten wood, or missing or damaged glass putty. This will ensure that the window will seal properly and stop water from getting into the building.
Re-sanding the window and painting it can give it new life and restore it to its former glory. A well-crafted sanding can protect the wood and ensure that the paint lasts for a long time.
If the sash is badly damaged or deteriorated, it can be replaced with a bespoke wooden replacement, made to fit the dimensions of the opening. This will allow for the same amount of light to enter the space and won't alter any of the original features of the window, such as muntins.
In some areas of the country and especially in conservation zones, planning laws protect historic details like ornate brickwork and plasterwork as as wooden window frames. If this is the situation then you'll be unable to install a uPVC window replacement in the old opening since it won't be a good fit and could damage the brickwork surrounding the opening.
Wooden frames are more difficult to maintain than uPVC, and require regular filling, sanding and painting. However, this adds to the character of your home. There are however uPVC windows available that are low maintenance, so it is worth doing your research before choosing to replace your wooden windows.