Heritage & Timber Repairs

Older properties often suffer from timber decay around windows, doors, sills, and frames - particularly where water ingress has been an issue. Full replacement isn't always necessary, and in many cases can be avoided with the correct repair approach.

We carry out specialist timber repairs using the Repair Care system, a method widely used in heritage and period properties to extend the life of original timber while maintaining the character of the building.
What this type of repair is used for:

Rotten window sills and frames
Door frames and thresholds
Timber lintels and decorative details
Localised rot caused by trapped moisture

Why repair rather than replace?

Preserves original timber and character
Often more cost-effective than full replacement
Reduces disruption and mess
Avoids unnecessary removal of surrounding materials

The process involves carefully removing decayed timber, treating the area, and rebuilding the profile using specialist resin-based repair compounds. Once completed, repairs are shaped, sanded, and ready for painting - blending seamlessly with the original timber.

This approach is particularly well suited to:

Period homes
Conservation properties
Customers wanting a sympathetic, long-lasting repair

Repairs are always assessed on a case-by-case basis, and we'll advise honestly if replacement is the better option.

What Causes Timber Rot?

Timber rot is almost always caused by prolonged moisture exposure. Wood itself is durable, but when moisture levels rise, fungi can develop and begin to break down the timber's structure.

Common causes include:

Failed or cracked paint coatings
Poor detailing that traps water (flat sills, open joints)
Leaking gutters, downpipes or roofs
Condensation and poor ventilation
Previous poor repairs using fillers or sealants that trap moisture

Crucially, rot is a symptom, not the root problem. If the source of moisture isn't addressed, repairs will eventually fail - regardless of how good they look initially.

The Repair Care Timber Repair Process

Repair Care repairs follow a structured, proven seven step process designed to produce long-lasting results not cosmetic patches.

Identify the Cause
All paint and surface finishes are removed from the affected area to expose the timber fully. This allows the true condition of the wood to be assessed and prevents hidden decay from being sealed in.
Cut Out All Decayed Timber
Any rotten or weakened timber is carefully removed back to solid, sound wood. No soft areas are left behind, ensuring the repair has a strong and stable base.
Measure Moisture Content
The remaining timber is tested using a moisture meter. Repairs only proceed once moisture levels are below 18%. If the timber is still too wet, the area is left to dry naturally before continuing - this is critical for long-term durability.
Prime with Dry Fix
Exposed timber is primed with Repair Care Dry Fix, which stabilises the wood, improves adhesion, and protects against future moisture ingress.
Apply Bioflex Repair Compound
The contact area is "buttered" with Repair Care Dry Flex or Bio Flex, flexible, high-performance repair compounds. This rebuilds the missing timber while allowing for natural movement without cracking.
Shape and Finish the Repair
The repair is carefully shaped and profiled to match the original timber detail before curing takes place, ensuring a seamless, sympathetic finish, which requires minimal sanding.
Sand and Paint for Protection
The repaired area is sanded smooth and fully protected with a proper paint system - primer, undercoat, and two top coats - sealing the repair and extending its lifespan.

Rot cut out of a sample window frame — An example of a Repair Care window frame repair

Window frame repaired with Repair Care — An example of a Repair Care window frame repair

Dealing with Rot or Failing Timber?

If you've spotted decay around windows, doors or frames - and want a repair that preserves the original timber rather than replacing it - we can help.

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