If you own a property that features timber windows, then there is a good chance that during your ownership of the property you are going to have to look into having your window frames repaired. This is because like all timber, the timber in your window frames is susceptible to all kinds of different types of degradation and decay.
So, how can you tell if one of your timber window frames has fallen victim to one of the many different ways that they can be damaged, and what can be done to fix them?
The Different Signs That Your Timber Window Frame Needs Replacing
There are all kinds of different signs that your timber window frames might be compromised. Knowing how to recognise them, and what constitutes the need for a surveyor call out is a huge step in making sure that your properties windows, and the window frames that they sit in, remain as healthy as possible.
Make sure you do keep a close eye on the condition of your window frames as well, as the rise in current energy prices means that if you have to turn up your heating, you might be hit with an even heftier bill.
So, how can you recognise potential damage or degradation in a timber window frame?
Condensation
Condensation is a common affliction in a property. Usually, if it’s found on the likes of walls and other surfaces inside a property it’s a sign that you do not have adequate ventilation, and as a result, your property might be developing damp.
However, if you find that condensation is only appearing on your windows, it could be a sign that your timber window frames have a failed seal. A failed seal means that your windows are now allowing the outside elements in, and that means that the differing temperatures outside your property are going to mix with the temperatures inside the property.
This means that the cold air outside your property is going to come into contact with the warm air inside, and this is when condensation is formed. The cold air causes the warm air to cool, and makes the warm moisture that exists as a gas cool down from its dew point, and revert back into a liquid state.
So, should this happen near a failed timber window frame, you will find that the window pane will feature a high level of condensation. You might find that condensation is more common in rooms that see a lot of use. For example, a bedroom after you have been sleeping in it all night, or a living room after you have been sitting for a while.
You Notice More Draughts
If you notice that your window is letting more or stronger draughts through, then it’s a pretty sure sign that your window has failed in some way.
It might only start as a slight breeze, or just a singular spot in the window frame where the air is cooler than other spots. It doesn’t matter how it starts, what does matter is that even a small area of compromised window frame can easily be weathered into a considerable problem if left alone and given time.
In a timber window frame, a draught indicates that a crack, hole or fault has appeared. That means that the untreated inners of the timber are now exposed to the elements. Moisture being allowed to fester within the exposed and unprotected timber is an easy way for rot to set in, and for your timber to become compromised.
The end result is a ruined window that starts out looking nasty, and ends up letting cold air in and increasing your heating bills dramatically – as well as heightening the likelihood of damp in your building.
Higher Levels of Exterior Noise
Not all signs of a failed timber window are felt – some are heard. Alongside an increased number of draughts and condensation, you might find that an increased level of noise is abundant in your home if your timber window frame has failed.
Increased noise from the street, like from cars or other passing traffic, higher volumes of overhead aircraft, louder birds or even just more noise from people walking by on the street could mean that your window has a fault and is in need of repair.
Remember, just like draught, you might notice that the sound gets worse over time. Whilst initially this is a bad thing, as it means you need urgent treatment on your timber windows, it can also be quite useful.
That’s because in the summer when the temperature is up and the rainfall levels are down, you might not notice any changes to your timber window visually if they have failed. However; you may well notice if the level of noise from your neighbours, or the street outside increases.
The good news is that this could be the best case scenario when it comes to repairing your window, as you might find that in the summer there is less chance for penetrating damp to set in, and less chance of harsh weathering making any existing problems worse in the long run.
If you think that your window might need repairing, or possibly replacing, then give our team a call. All of our surveyors are experienced at identifying imperfections and issues within wood, and our technicians are highly skilled in carrying out structural repairs to bring back timber to healthy, working order.
Avoid having to increase your energy usage, and contact our team today to make sure your windows stay safe. We also provide repairs for lintels to make sure your window frames are fully supported. We have teams located in England, Scotland and Wales, and we are ready to help today. Call 0800 288 8660 or get in touch online here.
