Windows are a critical component of your home’s structure. They allow for airflow and natural light and also are a key part of creating the aesthetics of your home.
They are also susceptible to damage and deterioration just like many of the other structural components of your home. Water damage, in particular, could cause some significant problems, such as rotting or warping wood. When the problem becomes bad enough, you will need to take some steps with the help of a professional to address the problem.
The good news is that you do not necessarily have to jump straight to replacing the windows. You may be able to repair them instead, depending on the nature and extent of the damage.
Signs to look for when analyzing damage to wood window frames
To determine if you will be able to get away with wood window frame repair rather than a full-on frame replacement, it is important to know what you need to analyze in the frame to gauge its condition.
First, there are some obvious signs that should be noticeable almost immediately upon looking at the frame. You might see cracking or peeling paint, rough or irregular wood surfaces or large cracks or crevices in locations where the wood might be significantly deteriorating. In some situations, the wood might have become so damaged that you’re even able to rip off some chunks just with your bare hands.
When you have signs of damage that are this obvious, you will immediately know you need to proceed with some form of remediation.
There are other signs of damage that might not be quite as apparent initially. Slight discoloration of the wood could be indicative of long-term exposure to ultraviolet light, which isn’t necessarily a major problem; however, it could also be indicative of excessive moisture or mold, which could both damage the structural integrity of the window frame and also pose potential health issues for people who are exposed to it. Moisture can cause rot if left unaddressed for too long, and rot is difficult to repair once it’s set in.
You can check to see if there’s rot in your window frame by pressing your fingers or a knife up against the frame and seeing if it feels spongy in any areas. If so, rot has already set in, and you may have a more difficult time making repairs.
Make sure that you’ve got sufficient flashing around your exterior windows and that you seal off any areas where there is the potential for leaks to form. This will go a long way toward protecting your wood window frames and keeping them in good condition.
For additional information about wood window frame repair and how you can care for and prevent damage to your wood window frames, get in touch with the experts at The Glass Shop. Our team has years of experience in dealing with windows, and we’d be happy to provide you with any assistance you need. Reach out today to arrange a consultation.