Aftercare

Following our easy 3 step guide to care and maintenance
will give extended life between redecoration cycles...

Clean

At least once a year all coatings should be washed with mild detergent and water to remove surface pollution and checked to ensure integrity of coatings.

Check

All hinge mechanisms and handles should be checked every 6 months for ease of operation and lubricated as required with light oil suitable for the purpose.

Dust

Weather seals should be cleaned at least once a year to remove dust or grime to maintain the performance of your products.

LONG TERM CARE

Willow coatings should be washed down with clean water to remove dust, insects and other contaminants as these can form a base for fungal growth. The coating should then be inspected for any damaged areas which should be repaired using the following procedure: Sand the damaged area with fine-grade sandpaper. Clean down and wash the area to remove dust and allow it to dry thoroughly. Apply a coat of high performance, water-based coating applied in the appropriate shade/colour to match the damaged area. Allow to dry for four hours and then apply a second coat. If the damaged area is widespread, it is recommended that the whole frame is sanded and repaired as described above with the second coat applied to the complete frame.

Please contact Willow Joinery for the paint to match your windows. Unless it is a custom colour we will be able to help source the coating or any questions regarding the process of making a repair.

Water-based coatings have a relatively high degree of moisture vapour permeability, this sometimes (though rarely), allows the passage of resin to the surface without damage to the coating. the best remedial treatment is to allow it to weather until it dries and oxidises, forming a white crystalline powder. The presence of fresh sticky resin indicates that the exudation is still continuing, treatment should only be carried out once the resin has fully crystallised. Remove crystals with a stiff nylon brush and the remaining residue washed off with a cloth. After removal (as described above) the overall application of one maintenance coat of finish will assist in maintaining appearance and protection.

PEACE OF MIND

We use high performance, water-based, micro-porous, spray applied coatings. With minimum maintenance they will give decades of service.

The use of dark coloured stains and opaque colours will have an impact on maintenance intervals and the level of maintenance work required. Dark colours absorb more of the sun’s energy which can accelerate the degradation of the coating film, and the impact of high surface temperatures can mobilise natural resins within the timber substrate. This can lead to blistering of the coating.

The amount of differential movement between components will also increase, resulting in open joints and possible moisture ingress if not rectified. Annual inspections will ensure the long term performance of the product.

Due to the natural characteristics and variation of surface texture within the same species of timber, there will be colour and/or grain variations between component parts. Certain manufacturing processes will also be evident when translucent stains are used.