Whilst, externally, timber as in window frames can last 30-40 years it is essential that regular inspection is carried out as part of a planned maintenance programme every 5 years!

Our Timber Works And Window Refurbishment Service

Our Technicians are specialists in the refurbishment or renewal of exterior timber.

This ranges from inspection to determine the best course of action for an optimum outcome.

Agreeing with the cooperation of the Building Surveyor what the most appropriate treatment or scope of works that would need to take place. The benefits of this work can be summarised as follows:

- Maintaining the asset value of the property

- Restoring by repair or partial replacement of wooden windows and sash replacement where required

- Repainting

- Ensuring the bond between the frame and glass is cohesive to eliminate draughts, improve heat retention and sound insulation.

Where it is deemed necessary when window frames show sign of rot, we commission experienced carpentry to replicate the original frame and preserve the original architectural character. Where damage is extensive due to rot our Technicians are experienced in the application of Repair Dry Flex 4 -2022001, which is a professional product that allows the speedy repair of areas that appear to be beyond rescue.

When dealing with listed buildings no planning permission is required if the windows are not being replaced but we always advise that checks are made before the work begins to avoid any issues at a later time.

Specialists In Timber And Sash Windows

Our experts are specialists in tackling all timber renovation projects and our service covers any woodwork on the exterior of a building that requires repairs. Once assessed they determine the best and cost-effective solution for the long-term. As they are always mindful of maintaining the character of a property, our team will only replace and refurbish what is needed and do not consider full replacement if any alternatives will work. Using the latest skills, repair products and paint, we restore timber windows back to their beautiful and functional condition and have completed many prominent projects on a range of homes across London and the whole of the U.K.

Why Might Your Building Require Timber Treatments?

If you notice visible damage or can feel that the wood has gone soft, it is time to make an assessment of the condition of all windows and woodwork, especially if other examples were installed at the same time or before. Other signs of wooden windows requiring work include increased draughts, slipping glass, crumbling putty, peeling paint, significant damp on the inside of windows leading to growth of mould and wood dust or particles on sills.

Why Is Regular Planned Maintenance Vital For Wooden Window Frames?

As wood is a natural material it is subject to seasonal climate conditions as in Winter months or periods of high humidity wood will absorb moisture and expand, and in Summer or dry conditions it will contract. This constant flexing will cause problems when wood is used for window frames as it will be noticed that the opening part of the window becomes stiff to open or close in Winter or periods of high humidity.

In the glazing of windows this flexing, according to climatic conditions, will cause the putty, that is used to retain the glass in the frame, to deteriorate and even come away from the wood or glass. This in turn can lead to gaps and hence draughts from the windows.

Further the constant flexing will cause the paint on the surface of the wood to crack and lift exposing the wood below which will ultimately lead to rot and this can happen in a relatively short time unless noted and remedial work is undertaken.

Insects can also have a detrimental effect on timber as they penetrate the surface to feed on the natural sap within the wood which then allows mould spores or algae to penetrate it and accelerate the deterioration. Timely intervention via regular inspection will save money.

Repair Rather Than Replace Your Windows

Repairing windows always makes senses as it generally is more economical and causes less disruption. On older properties and listed buildings, we aim to always retain as much of the original timber as possible. Older timber can be prone to warping or gaps around the frame and this can be resolved with draught sealing and other adjustments. If the window is not being replaced you generally don’t require planning permission. However, with listed buildings we always advise checking first to ensure no issues can be raised after work is completed.