3 Things To Look For When Inspecting Timber Home Windows | Fort Worth, TX
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Timber windows are aesthetically pleasing and one of the most common options chosen by homeowners due to their sturdiness, durability, and visual appeal. However, they do require quite a bit of maintenance.
If the timber of your home windows truly has been affected by rot, you’ll notice that the wood underneath is soft and fibrous. You should be able to probe the most vulnerable areas with a pointed knife or a sharp object. Depending on the extent of the rot, an experienced carpenter may be able to repair the affected area. However, if you want to replace it, you should speak with a window installation company. They can walk you through the different materials that are available. You might still want to go with timber home windows or you might want to go with a sturdier material like fiberglass.
Here are some things that you should look for when inspecting timber home windows. If you’re not sure what to look for or if you suspect that your windows need some repairs, call Energy Window Solutions.
#1. Evidence of Water Absorption
Timber home windows are susceptible to water damage. If you do not properly treat the windows, rainwater and other water in the surrounding environment can easily seep into the wood and cause it to mold or rot. Some signs of water damage that you should keep an eye out for include:
- Exterior paint failure. If you notice that the paint is peeling, there’s a good chance that water has seeped inside the window frames of your home windows.
- Interior paint failure. This is usually caused by condensation. If there’s condensation in your home, it could be because there’s poor air ventilation.
- Degradation of the wood surfaces. With everything, time and age will cause it to decay.
- Issues with the frame joints. Once again, this is usually due to wear and tear.
- Cracked, loose or missing putty. In these situations, you might be able to get away with simply replacing the putty. The water might not necessarily have seeped into the wooden frames yet.
If your home windows are too severely damaged, you may not necessarily want to repair them. Instead, you might be better off replacing them with new alternatives. If you’re thinking about going with the latter, speak with Energy Window Solutions in Fort Worth, TX. We can help you narrow down your choices, and we’ll also walk you through the pros and cons of various window types, so you know exactly what’s best suited for your home.
If you’ve decided to go with timber frames once again, you must make sure that you properly treat the wood in order to ensure that it is protected against water damage. There are many different types of treatments that you can go with. Speak with the window installation company to learn more about the pros and cons of different types of window treatments.
#2. Sashes That Are Not Able to Move Properly
The sashes of wooden home windows are most prone to damage. As your home windows age, you should spend some time inspecting them every year in order to make sure that you pick up on the minor issues early on. While they’re still small, the issues should be relatively easy to repair. In worst-case scenarios, it would be much more affordable to replace your home windows with other styles and designs rather than attempt a repair.
Some of the reasons why your sashes may not be moving properly or smoothly are because:
- there is over-painting at the joints;
- the sash cords are broken the pulley wheels are seized up because of a lack of lubrication;
- you’ve replaced the glass panes with thicker and heavier options that are difficult to move, like if you were to switch to double pane or triple pane windows; in which case, you might need to replace the sashes;
- there is inadequate lubrication between the sashes and the pulley linings; and,
- there is swelling due to water absorption
If the sashes are not moving properly, you will need to find someone to repair it immediately. The longer that you wait, the more difficult the repair will be.
#3. Deformation of the Frames
Wood can warp over time. You’ll want to move the sashes up and down to see whether any movement may be causing the wooden frames to become even more deformed. Deformation can be caused by improperly treated or installed windows. With that said, it’s also natural for window frames to become deformed with age.
If the window frames become deformed, then you’ll likely want to install new replacements rather than try to replace anything. It’s not worth trying to repair anything, as most of the components inside will also be compromised. On top of that, a replacement will likely be more affordable than repairs. Before replacing the windows, you’ll need a professional to come to take a look at them in order to determine what the underlying cause of the deformation may be. It’s crucial that you take as many steps as possible to prevent this situation from happening again.
Get Your Windows Inspected Today
To ensure that your windows are in good condition and are not in need of repair, call a window installation and service company like Energy Window Solutions. We have over 30 years of experience in the fenestration industry and know-how to install, care for and maintain all types of windows. We’ve worked with awning windows, picture windows, bay windows, sliding windows, and more. Our professionals have tackled various types of repairs and problems.
Call us now at 972-290-1848 for a free estimate. We can help you repair windows or find replacements for your home in Fort Worth, TX. We can also help you find the right financing plan, as well as walk you through the pros and cons of different types of windows. In particular, we’re interested in helping homeowners find energy-efficient windows that work for their homes.