Timber is one of the major components of almost any house. However, its quality can fast deteriorate, if not maintained properly. Dampness poses the major threat to this material and makes it susceptible to rot and decay. This results costly damages to structures such as wooden windows. Some damages are severe while others can be simply repaired. Therefore, it is important to learn how to repair rot and decay on wooden windows.
It is good to have some idea about the problem before proceeding with anything. This condition is caused when saprophytic fungus starts to grow on the wood. This moisture creates conducive environment for the fungus to grow. As it grows, it damages the timber by consuming it.
Before fixing the problem, you must give a through inspection to identify all affected areas. You should specially check lower rails, joints and upright pieces of the structure. Remember, timber areas in contact with damp walls and concrete are highly susceptible. The glazing beads are also a commonly affected area especially when external putty has failed or the beads are fixed without this compound.
To confirm if an area is affected, you should know a few things. When affected, timber becomes very soft. Unfortunately, most signs are only visible when the dampness has gone, leaving the surface to shrink or collapse. Try prodding an area using a screwdriver, and if it slips in easily it means that the timber is affected. Unless the damage is severe, there will be no need to panic since the problem can be easily treated.
Start by treating the area with liquid wood hardener as well as good quality putty. The first step is to drill holes in the damaged area, using a honeycomb pattern, and filling them with hardener. Doing so ensures that the liquid can reach the entire affected area. After filling the holes, give the liquid time to harden.
After the hardener is dry, you can use your high quality putty to cover the holes. You must sand the putty down in order for the structure to be smooth again. This will ensure that the surface is uniform.
Since you know how to repair rot and decay on wooden windows now, any minor problem can be simply dealt yourself. However, make sure the timber parts are properly maintained next time. Any dampness especially after showers of rain must be immediately eliminated. This will help you avoid costly replacements.
It is good to have some idea about the problem before proceeding with anything. This condition is caused when saprophytic fungus starts to grow on the wood. This moisture creates conducive environment for the fungus to grow. As it grows, it damages the timber by consuming it.
Before fixing the problem, you must give a through inspection to identify all affected areas. You should specially check lower rails, joints and upright pieces of the structure. Remember, timber areas in contact with damp walls and concrete are highly susceptible. The glazing beads are also a commonly affected area especially when external putty has failed or the beads are fixed without this compound.
To confirm if an area is affected, you should know a few things. When affected, timber becomes very soft. Unfortunately, most signs are only visible when the dampness has gone, leaving the surface to shrink or collapse. Try prodding an area using a screwdriver, and if it slips in easily it means that the timber is affected. Unless the damage is severe, there will be no need to panic since the problem can be easily treated.
Start by treating the area with liquid wood hardener as well as good quality putty. The first step is to drill holes in the damaged area, using a honeycomb pattern, and filling them with hardener. Doing so ensures that the liquid can reach the entire affected area. After filling the holes, give the liquid time to harden.
After the hardener is dry, you can use your high quality putty to cover the holes. You must sand the putty down in order for the structure to be smooth again. This will ensure that the surface is uniform.
Since you know how to repair rot and decay on wooden windows now, any minor problem can be simply dealt yourself. However, make sure the timber parts are properly maintained next time. Any dampness especially after showers of rain must be immediately eliminated. This will help you avoid costly replacements.
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Have a look at our tips to repair rot and decay on wooden windows easily, now! You can also get details about how and where to find a sash windows restoration specialist.
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