Maintenance of our Timber Windows

The way they are handled and stored on site can affect their long-term performance. Good practice avoids damage, maintains quality and saves money. Windows are available as joinery items supplied:-

1. with a primer or stain base coat for site glazing and finishing;
2. as factory glazed components requiring site finishing;
3. as factory glazed and fully finished windows.

Each type needs careful handling and protection although the actual requirements vary slightly.

Windows should be checked at the time of delivery to ensure that they are in accordance with the order schedule, the delivery is complete and that each window, including any protective packaging, is not damaged. For long term performance of the window and finish, it is important that this moisture content is maintained during storage on site and during the construction process. BS 644: Timber Windows recommends that the moisture content of timber windows should be between 13% and 19% although fully factory finished windows may be of a lower moisture content.

It is necessary to maintain all hardware regularly in order to ensure it works and lasts.

1. General - Wipe away all dirt and debris, especially on moving parts. Check all screws are tight.
2. Handles - Wipe clean with a damp cloth. Do not lubricate.
3. Window Locking System - Apply petroleum jelly to all locking bolts, guide slots (on frame) and striker plates.
4. Hinges - Add the minimum amount necessary of light machine oil to all pivots. Wipe away excess.
5. Ventilator and canopy - Wipe clean with a damp cloth. Clean away blockages. Do not lubricate.

How to Maintain

It is important to remember that regular, minimal maintenance will make re-decorating the windows a far easier job.

1. Mould and algae - All windows can suffer from mould and algae caused by airborne spores, which settle on the surface (which is why exterior plastic products go grey over time).To remove mould and algae, wash with a solution of one part bleach to two parts water, and leave for 20 minutes to work. Then rinse. If the blemish is stubborn, scrub with a stiff nylon bristle (not metallic) brush.
2. Cleaning and washing - Wash with hot water and liquid detergent every 6 months. Rinse with clean water. During this process it is advisable to inspect all components of the window for defects and take action if necessary.
3. Exuding natural resin - Wait until dried to a white crystalline resin before you attempt to remove it. If the resin is particularly stubborn, you may need to carefully use a scraper to remove surface deposits. Do not use a metal scraper as this will damage both the coating and the underlying timber substrate. Use a hot air paint stripper to soften the exuded natural resin and to draw as much as possible from the underlying timber. Do not overheat as this may damage the coating system. Remove with a lint-free cloth dampened by methylated spirits to clean any remaining resin residues from the timber surface. Apply a suitable base stain or primer to bare timber areas. Then bring forward these areas with one coat of finish, before applying a further coat of finish overall.
4. Damage - If any part of the window’s coating system is damaged to the point of showing bare timber, contact the manufacturer to find out which is the appropriate coating material to use and their practical instructions on how to maintain it. If you do not know who manufactured the window, follow the re-decoration instructions that apply to your particular window section.

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