Did you know the ageing process can give wood character? Here are some answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about wood ageing.
Exterior and Interior Timber: How to care for it?
What is the traditional way of polishing oak beams in oak-framed buildings?
Apply a lime wash to the timbers on the outside and inside, as well as the infill panels. The timber will be given a traditional polish.
Is it necessary to stain new wood to match the old in case of repairs or replacements?
New woods look rough. Oak, for example, will darken with time and achieve a lovely colour. It is best to avoid staining new wood.
How can you lighten dark oak beams?
You can use a proprietary liming wand to cover dark oak beams. If you prefer a solid-looking finish, you can opt for a paint based on casein.
Can I use linseed to improve the look of wood?
Linseed oil makes wood sticky. Linseed oil makes the wood sticky, which attracts dirt. Linseed oil also fades over time. Oak beams don’t necessarily require a treatment, but you can polish them with beeswax to enhance their appearance.
Handling Decay
What causes timber decay? How can I treat it?
The cause of decay is dampness. This can lead to rot, infestation by beetles or both. It can have devastating effects on structural timbers. You should first determine the source of the dampness before you can fix the problem. You may find that a leaky pipe, a blocked gutter near the wood or direct contact with moist surfaces are possible causes. As the wood dries, the rotting and insect infestation will decrease. For supplies of timber, consider contacting a Timber Merchants Surrey like those found at https://www.timbco.co.uk/
Do you need to use chemical treatment?
Sprays containing chemicals are expensive and difficult to use. If there are active wood-worms due to infestation, you can treat the affected areas of the timber using insecticides.
How can I determine the condition of my timber?
You can use a penknife to test the condition of the wood beneath its surface. If the blade does not penetrate the wood, even if only the first few millimetres are damaged, the condition is still considered normal. You can also ask an expert to inspect the wood for you.