Hi, can you please kindly advise what's best to do if the indoor window frame has shown water damage or splitting? And what products will be required?
Thank you very much!
Hi @xiaoci2008 ,
The first thing I'd do is check how solid the timber still is. Take a screwdriver and gently poke around the areas that have been affected by water. If the screwdriver doesn't sink in and the timber still feels solid, then you're likely dealing primarily with surface deterioration that can be sanded back.
If you find any areas that feel soft, you can apply Earl's Wood Hardener to help consolidate and strengthen the affected timber. Make sure the timber is completely dry before applying it and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
I'd also make sure whatever caused the water damage has been resolved before refinishing the window. There's little point restoring the timber if it is going to continue getting wet.
Once everything is dry and solid, start sanding with 120-grit sandpaper to remove the deteriorated surface and remaining finish, then move to 180-grit sandpaper to smooth the timber and prepare it for your new finish.
From there, you've got a few options depending on the appearance and level of protection you're after. A timber oil will soak into the timber and give it a natural appearance, while a timber wax will give you a soft, natural-looking finish. Alternatively, a clear varnish will form a more durable protective coating over the timber. If the window regularly gets condensation on it, I'd lean towards the varnish for the additional moisture protection.
You might also like to have a look at How to paint timber window frames for some guidance on preparing and sanding timber window frames.
Let me know how the timber feels when you test it and we can advise further if necessary.
Jacob
Hi, @JacobZ
Thank you so much for your reply.
Provided the timber is not rotting, will this be a good choice to paint over it due to frequent sun and potential moisture exposure? https://www.bunnings.com.au/cabot-s-250ml-merbau-water-based-deck-and-exterior-timber-stain-merbau_p1520407
Also, just want to double-check that I should apply Earl's Wood Hardener before sanding?
Hi @xiaoci2008,
As this is the inside of the window, we'd normally use a polyurethane clear finish to provide a durable coating and protect the timber from moisture.
However, it would be worth determining what has been used on the rest of the window frame first. If it already has a hard clear coating, such as polyurethane, you'd want to use a compatible finish. If the timber has only been stained, then the approach could be different.
Regarding the Earl's Wood Hardener, you only need this if the timber has become soft or deteriorated. If required, remove any loose material, apply the hardener as directed and then sand once cured. If the timber is still solid, you can simply sand it in preparation for refinishing.
Mitchell
